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Breakfast Positively Impacts Cognitive Function in College Students With and Without ADHD.
Elizabeth T Brandley1, Kathleen F Holton1,2
1Department of Health Studies, American University, Washington, DC, USA.
American Journal of Health Promotion : AJHP
|February 5, 2020
Summary
A balanced breakfast improved cognitive function in college students, including those with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Students with ADHD showed greater improvements in reaction time after the meal.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Nutritional Science
- Cognitive Psychology
Background:
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder impacting cognitive functions.
- Nutritional intake, particularly breakfast, is recognized for its role in cognitive performance.
- The impact of breakfast on cognitive function in college students with ADHD remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of a nutritionally balanced breakfast on cognitive function in college students.
- To compare these effects between students with and without ADHD.
Main Methods:
- A pre-post dietary intervention study was conducted with college students aged 18-25.
- Participants (n=19 with ADHD, n=27 without ADHD) underwent cognitive assessments after fasting and 1 hour post-breakfast shake consumption.
- Cognitive function was measured using CNS Vital Signs computerized testing.
Main Results:
- Both groups showed cognitive improvements in four domains after breakfast.
- Students with ADHD demonstrated a statistically significant improvement in reaction time compared to those without ADHD (OR=1.07, P=.04).
- A notable percentage of participants in both groups reported not typically eating breakfast.
Conclusions:
- A nutritionally balanced breakfast may offer cognitive benefits for college students, irrespective of ADHD status.
- The findings suggest a potential specific benefit for reaction time in students with ADHD following breakfast.
- Further research is warranted to validate these preliminary findings.
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