Diet and Mental Health in Children

The role played by diet in mental health is of increasing interest to patients, parents, health professionals and public policy makers. This review examines the literature assessing the role of diet in childhood cognitive development, school performance and behaviour. The effects of inadequate dietary intake and of nutrient supplements are considered. Studies of diet and specific psychiatric diagnoses such as depression and psychosis are discussed, with a focus on the evidence for the child and adolescent population.