Is Aggressive Behavior Caused by Nutritional Deficiencies?

During the course of my career, I’ve read several fascinating studies about the role nutritional deficiencies have in contributing to violent behavior. I’ve also reviewed other research studies that have determined a link between elevated levels of heavy metals in the blood, such as cadmium and lead and violent behavior.

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.

While a placebo group (participants received an inert substance lacking any nutritional value), experienced a 14 % increase in violent incidents.

The researchers wrote, “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.”

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

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

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.

Learn more about nutrition. Stop by Elaine R. Ferguson, MD’s site where you can find out all about nutritional supplements and what it can do for you.