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Dietary habits and cognitive performance in primary school students: a cross-sectional study in Khemisset region in Morocco
This research investigates the relationship between dietary habits and cognitive performance among primary school students in Khemisset, Morocco. It identifies that children’s cognitive abilities are significantly affected by their dietary patterns, health status, and socioeconomic backgrounds. A cross-sectional survey involving 330 students revealed that while a majority maintained a low BMI and reported no significant health or vision problems, a considerable proportion experienced psychological stress (32.7%) and learning difficulties (43%). The dietary analysis indicated that although 66.9% of participants consumed three or more meals daily, 60% frequently skipped breakfast. Cognitive assessment using the d2R test revealed that regular meal consumption, particularly breakfast, is positively correlated with processing speed, attention, and accuracy. Conversely, a high intake of ultra-processed foods, alongside psychological stress and learning difficulties, was associated with diminished cognitive performance. These findings underscore the critical importance of dietary habits in fostering better cognitive outcomes in children, advocating for interventions that aim to improve nutritional practices within this demographic. [NPID: Cognitive, psychological, processing, attention, performance, breakfast, meals]
Year: 2025
