Is your child disruptive and aggressive?

They may have a deficiency of zinc or vitamin B.

Children and adolescents with behavioural disorders and aggressive behaviour are frequently malnourished. Those with certain nutritional deficiencies, such as those for zinc, iron, B vitamins and protein exhibit a 41% increase in aggressive behaviour by the age of 8, and by the age of 17 there is violent and antisocial behaviour in 51% (Am J Psychiatry 2004; 161: 2005-2013).

The deficiencies in the diet of these children resulted in abnormal development of the nervous system. Zinc is the single most common deficiency in the American population, with an estimated 80% of the whole population at risk. Zinc is important for many biological reactions and is especially significant in the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Zinc is also important in foetal development and specifically neurological function.

There is also evidence that iron deficiency may be an important contributor to the aggressive behavioral syndrome. Among adolescent males, iron deficiency has been shown to be directly associated with aggressive behaviour (J Special Educ 1974; 8: 153-6).  Moreover, in a population of imprisoned adolescents, the prevalence of iron deficiency was nearly twice that found in their non-incarcerated peers.

Vitamin B6 is essential for the synthesis or metabolism of practically all the neurotransmitters (chemicals which help to transmit messages in the nervous system). A deficiency of vitamin B6 causes symptoms such as tiredness, nervousness, irritability, depression and insomnia. So in susceptible individuals it’s not surprising that this deficiency can cause behavioural changes resulting in aggression and possibly criminal behavior (Crime Times 1997; 3: 6-7).

Protein is made up of amino acids, some of which are important in behaviour. Some amino acids are precursors for neurotransmitters within the body. Certain proteins derived from the digestion of milk and wheat has drug-like effects that have the potential to affect neurotransmitters. Certain proteins have been shown scientifically to affect mood and behaviour.

Food sources of these nutrients

The diet should be high in:

·         Lean meat, fish, seafood, mushrooms and brewer’s yeast for zinc 

·         Lean meat, fish, beans and dark green vegetables for iron

·         Liver, kidney’s, cabbage, eggs and brewer’s yeast for vitamin B6

·         Meat, poultry, eggs, beans, nuts and whole grains for protein.

How to alleviate these nutritional deficiencies

The frequency of periodic food fads, slimming trends, tendencies to skip meals and irregular eating habits points towards the need for supplementation. However, many children and adolescents are unwilling or unable to take tablets. We have linked up with the producers of liquid-based supplements called Aquaceuticals.

This blend is specially designed taking into account all information highlighted above. The mixture of iron, zinc and vitamin B6, blended together in an orange-flavoured drink. This can be drunk on its own or added to water or other beverages. This should supplement the diet of growing children and adolescents.

More information on childhood aggression and diet

http://www.organicconsumers.org/school/aggression040405.cfm

http://www.usc.edu/uscnews/stories/10773.html

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