Lifetime Nutritional Influences on Cognition, Behaviour and Psychiatric Illness

Lifetime Nutritional Influences on Cognition, Behaviour and Psychiatric Illness

Woodhead Publishing Series in Food Science, Technology and Nutrition
2011, Pages 301-322
Lifetime Nutritional Influences on Cognition, Behaviour and Psychiatric Illness

12 - Malnutrition and externalizing behaviour

https://doi.org/10.1533/9780857092922.3.301Get rights and content

Abstract:

Malnutrition, particularly the deficiencies of zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids and the excessive consumption of food additives, is increasingly recognized as a risk factor for childhood externalizing behaviour, including aggression, hyperactivity, delinquency, conduct disorder, and antisocial personality disorder. It is hypothesized that malnutrition can interfere with brain functioning by diminishing neuronal growth and development of the brain, altering neurotransmitter functioning, increasing neurotoxicity, and impairing cognitive functioning. These mechanisms present significant implications for malnutrition during childhood, when the brain is growing most rapidly and therefore vulnerable and sensitive to insults. The food industry, policy makers, and health care professionals will have an important role in changing practice and strengthening education and research to prevent malnutrition for current and future generations.

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