Study: Junk food contributes to dumbening in children
It’s no shocker that eating junk food can cause obesity, especially in children. But a new British study shows that it can also make you dumber. The Daily Mail reports that researchers at Bristol University have shown that when toddlers consume a diet of “chips, crisps, biscuits, and pizza” (that’s fries, chips, cookies and pizza), they’re more likely to end up with a lower I.Q. later in life. It’s unconfirmed as yet whether spray-tanning your children à la Toddlers and Tiaras has the same effect.
Meanwhile, the researchers also note that a traditional diet of fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, fish and home-cooked meals led to better IQ scores—up to a five IQ point difference by the time children are eight years old. As if healthy eaters really needed another excuse to act all superior. After Sunday’s Super Bowl festivities, though, we may not even be able to detect their condescension.
• Danger of a junk food diet for children: Study reveals toddlers who eat more chips, crisps, biscuits and pizza have lower IQ [Daily Mail] • Junk food diet linked to lower IQ: Study [Calgary Herald] • Junk Food Makes People Like Totally Dumb [Eater]
NEVER MISS A TORONTO LIFE STORY
Sign up for Table Talk, our free newsletter with essential food and drink stories.
