Food Insecurity Brings Changes in Children

Scientists from Boston University School of Medicine (BUSM) and Boston Medical Center (BMC) analyzed 23 peer-reviewed articles. Through the studied articles the researchers observed associations between FI and adverse childhood developmental-behavioral outcomes.

As per the researchers, these developmental behaviors include early cognitive development, academic performance, inattention, externalizing behaviors and depression in four groups.

Now, the four groups are infants and toddlers, preschoolers, school age and adolescent, said the experts. As per the findings FI poses a developmental risk, impairs child attachment, mental proficiency and cognitive assessment scores.

Moreover, in pre-school time there is an association between food insecurity externalizing and internalizing behaviors. Additionally, mental health symptoms and less optimal self-control and interpersonal skills are also connected with food insecurity in preschoolers.

In school-aged children, an association was found between FI and impaired academic performance and other problems such as increased hyperactivity, inattention and aggressive behaviour. A final study involving adolescents indicate associations between FI and anxiety, depression and suicidal ideation etc.

Content Source: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/02/170201110638.htm

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