Is Aggressive Behavior Caused by Nutritional Deficiencies?

Over the years, I’ve read numerous intriguing studies about the role nutrition plays in violent behavior. Other studies have clearly demonstrated a link between heavy metals and vitamin deficiencies.

A recent study conducted in the Netherlands found prisoners given supplements of minerals, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and vitamins reduced the incidence of violent and aggressive encounters. The prisoners receiving supplements experienced a 34 percent reduction in violent incidents among young adult offenders.

A 14% increase in violent behavior was found among the members of the placebo group. They did not receive the nutritional supplements, but were given an inert substance without any nutritional value.

According to the researchers, “The prospect of influencing aggression and rule-breaking behavior with nutrients in moderate doses is important enough to warrant further research. This is particularly true as adequate supplementation may also have beneficial effects on mental health and cognitive functioning.”

Interestingly, the young men were asked to rate their health and aggression. They did not report any difference in the number of violent incidents. The violent incident reductions were documented by the prison staff

One of the researchers, Dr. Zaalberg noted, “Yet, the results in terms of a substantial reduction in reported incidents seem promising, as this outcome measure in particular may have practical relevance.”

This study continues along the lines of one reported in 2000, an Oxford University study that also found a 39 per cent reduction in violent behavior among young offenders receiving micronutrients and fatty acids.

“In my view, this could be milestone research, the research that finally makes the world take seriously the connection between diet and mental ill health, in all its forms,” said Profesor Winkler.

Professor Crawford noted the association between aggressive behavior and nutrition, “Makes sense on the basis of evidence of links between major depression, suicide and homicide reported by Dr Joseph Hibblen at the National Institutes of Health in the USA and of course our stuff demonstrating the absolute dependence of the brain on the long chain essential fatty acids.

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