The Relationship of Food and Academic Performance: A Preliminary Examination of the Factors of Nutritional Neuroscience, Malnutrition, and Diet Adequacy

This article examines the extent of food’s impact on children’s academic achievement. The purpose of this study is to summarize existing research concerning the food-learning correlation and to synthesize studies regarding nutritional needs of the brain, malnutrition during development, and overall diet quality as related to academic achievement. Data finds a fundamental link between nutrition and cognition. Results suggest to the extent the brains of many United States schoolchildren do not receive the nutrients needed for optimal cognition, that academic performance may be consequentially reduced. Finally, a discussion of related learning theory and current debate, and practical implications for educational settings is offered