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I get so excited about introducing the kids to new foods at breakfast, lunch and dinner that sometimes I forget they do their fair share of introducing (or re-introducing) me to some as well.

For years, I shunned yogurt. I thought it was too gloppy and sour to endure for a serving. I knew it was good for you -- particularly the more natural it is -- but I just couldn't get into it. But, with kids, I have so changed my ways. At the suggestion of Rocco's pediatrician, we started feeding him plain yogurt (low-fat, no sugar, no flavoring) at about six months. He loved it. And he's continued to. In fact, now almost 5, he likes re-creating the yogurt parfaits at Starbucks by layering low-fat vanilla yogurt, granola, and fruit into a see-through glass. It's tasty, a quick breakfast, and did I mention that yogurt is considered a "Superfood," meaning that it's good for the brain?

For my part, all that kid lip-smacking over yogurt had my trying several different types -- though we try to stay away from the pre-packaged, combination flavor ones that tend to have lots of sugar. Instead, we'll create our own flavors by swirling in a favorite jam or preserves, honey, or maple syrup. And, if yogurt's consistency turns you off (as it did me for so long), try the Greek-style variety that's around more prevalently now. It has a custard, almost sour cream-like, texture that's... well, it's not exactly dessert, but it is good for you.

You can find more information about a brainiac's diet in my book The Complete Idiot's Guide to Clear Thinking (Penguin 2005) at www.amazon.com.