Nutrition can have a direct effect on a child’s mental health. Several studies and researches in the matter have revealed that a child who has nutritional deficiencies (caused by overeating as well as under-eating) is more likely to be affected by several physical and mental health related issues as he/she grows up. In fact, studies have revealed that there is a direct connection between poor nutrition and a child’s IQ levels.
A study published in The Journal of Nutrition in 2010 revealed that kids below two years of age who were undernourished were more prone to fail a grade in school. These children were also more likely to enter school later, if compared to their counterparts who were comparatively well nourished. Scientists behind the e published study indicated the possibility of at least a 10% reduction of lifetime income in such kids. The United Nations Standing Committee on Nutrition also claimed that any form of stunted growth or development due to malnutrition can reduce a child’s mental capacity, and affect his/her academic performance as he/she ages.
The study also revealed other psychological issues caused by malnutrition that can in turn, have an effect on a child’s IQ levels. Accordingly, kids who were undernourished were more likely to suffer from psychological and emotional development issues. A particular research conducted by Dr. Lawrence from the Center of Development pertains to the importance of calcium and other minerals for proper emotional development in children. The research has revealed that nutritional deficiencies in children could lead to several psychological issues like bipolar disorder, hyperactivity, autism, depression, anxiety and schizophrenia, all of which could affect a child’s IQ levels significantly.
Another research conducted by Dr. David E. Barrett and Dr. Marian Radke-Yarrow, psychologists from the Harvard Medical School and the National Institutes of Health child development respectively, studied the behavioral patterns and issues of children between 6 and eight years of age. The research concluded that lack of proper nutrition could lead to several behavioral issues in children.
Accordingly, the children who had been malnourished during the so called ‘critical’ first two years of their birth appeared to exhibit different behavioral issues than the other children who received proper nutrition during this period. These children were found to be less active and helpful, and were more reluctant to learn at school.