The link between nutrition and cognition has been recognised for sometime and according to the Scientific American (February 1996) nutrition can have an effect on mental achievement that can last a lifetime.
Ten studies which were carried out on the topic as to whether vitamin-mineral supplementation would increase intelligence scores showed that seven reported that taking supplements was associated with improved performance on intelligence tests, or measures of attention, for at least some children (Benton and Cook, 1988; Schoenthaler et al., 1991; Nelson et al., 1990; Crombie et al., 1990; Benton and Buts, 1990; Southon et al., 1994; Kerlmova and Aleskerova, 1990; Nidich et al., 1993; Sands and Shama, 1993; Benton and Cook, 1991).
A trial looking at the effect of essential fatty acids and learning conditions was completed by Portwood (2002). This trial involved more than 100 children at 12 primary schools in the county. The trial looked at dyspraxia and motor skills, but also assessed for dyslexia and Attention Deficit Disorder. More than 12,000 assessments were undertaken in the course of this full double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial. This study showed that there were positive effects from taking the supplements. There have been other numerous trials and studies to support these kinds of findings, for example by Puri (2002) and Parker (1989). There have been many other studies to support the link between nutrition and learning.
Dr. Alweena Zairi
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