<p>Their IQ fell by 1.67 for every increase on a chart which reflected how much processed fat they ate. And the damage could not be reversed - as diet at the ages of four and seven had no affect on IQ scores.<br /><br />In the study spanning several years, the researchers at Bristol University monitored the diet of kids at age three, four, seven and eigh-and-a-half years, 'The Sun' reported.<br /><br />Dr Kate Northstone, who led the research at Bristol University, said: "In this population of contemporary British children, a poor diet, associated with increased intake of processed foods, fat and sugar in early childhood may be associated with lower IQ at the age of 8.5 years.<br /><br />"In addition, a healthy diet may be associated with higher IQ. It is possible that good nutrition during this period may encourage optimal brain growth." But she added: "Further research is required to help determine the true effects of early diet on intelligence."<br /><br />Barbara Gallani, of the Food and Drink Federation, said: "It would not be surprising if a healthy, balanced diet is important in IQ development - just like it is generally for children's health and growth.<br /><br />"We believe it is important for everyone to eat a wide variety of foods. It's possible to eat a healthy diet and still include some treat foods."</p>
<p>Their IQ fell by 1.67 for every increase on a chart which reflected how much processed fat they ate. And the damage could not be reversed - as diet at the ages of four and seven had no affect on IQ scores.<br /><br />In the study spanning several years, the researchers at Bristol University monitored the diet of kids at age three, four, seven and eigh-and-a-half years, 'The Sun' reported.<br /><br />Dr Kate Northstone, who led the research at Bristol University, said: "In this population of contemporary British children, a poor diet, associated with increased intake of processed foods, fat and sugar in early childhood may be associated with lower IQ at the age of 8.5 years.<br /><br />"In addition, a healthy diet may be associated with higher IQ. It is possible that good nutrition during this period may encourage optimal brain growth." But she added: "Further research is required to help determine the true effects of early diet on intelligence."<br /><br />Barbara Gallani, of the Food and Drink Federation, said: "It would not be surprising if a healthy, balanced diet is important in IQ development - just like it is generally for children's health and growth.<br /><br />"We believe it is important for everyone to eat a wide variety of foods. It's possible to eat a healthy diet and still include some treat foods."</p>