by Dr. Derrick K. Mobley, MD
In recent years, a growing body of research has begun to shed light on the relationship between diet quality and behavioral outcomes, particularly in adolescents.
Among these findings, one of the most striking is the potential link between poor food quality and an increased propensity for violence and aggressive behaviors in adolescents. The human brain does not fully develop until the age of 25, and the last part of the brain to develop is the part responsible for making good decisions–the pre-frontal cortex. Therefore, it is crucial that we offer our youth high-quality, nutrient-dense foods that will optimize brain development and function to assist them with preventing mental health disorders, take full advantage of educational opportunities, make good decisions, and better process the enormous of social media-derived information that confronts them.
Understanding the Impact of Nutrition on
Adolescent Behavior
Nutrition plays a crucial role in the development and functioning of the human brain. During adolescence, a period marked by significant physical, emotional, and cognitive changes, the importance of a balanced diet becomes particularly pronounced. Essential nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, are fundamental for brain health, affecting everything from cognitive functions to emotional regulation to behavior. There have been studies in prisons showing that improving omega-3 fatty acid intake can result in a 33% reduction in violent crime. Just imagine how a 33% reduction in violent crime would improve the quality of life for Philadelphia residents.
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