Swansea Scientists Review 73 Studies Linking Early Diet to Teen Intelligence, Urge 7 Research Principles
Updated
Updated · Newswise · Jun 5
Swansea Scientists Review 73 Studies Linking Early Diet to Teen Intelligence, Urge 7 Research Principles
3 articles · Updated · Newswise · Jun 5
Summary
Swansea University scientists reviewed 73 studies on people aged 8 to 19 and found evidence that unhealthy diets in infancy—especially the first year—may reduce intelligence in adolescence.
The systematic review combined 48 controlled trials and 25 prospective studies, but said mixed results often reflect differences in timing, nutrients tested, study design and the cognitive domains measured.
Adolescence emerged as a possible second window of neuroplasticity, when hormonal and structural brain changes could make nutrition interventions more relevant, though the paper said stronger evidence is still needed.
Seven recommendations aim to improve future research, including a life-course approach, studying nutrients in combination rather than isolation, and using valid biomarkers to better assess diet and brain health.