From Plate to Personality: Correlation Between Diet and Aggression Among Indian Male Respondents

Diet and emotions are closely linked. What we eat can influence brain chemistry, hormone balance, and energy levels, which in turn affect mood and emotional well-being. The present study aims to investigate the relationship between dietary intake and aggression levels among Indian male participants.

The study recruited 218 Indian male participants aged 18 years and above through an online panel using random sampling, with informed consent and confidentiality maintained. Dietary intake was measured using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), while aggression levels were assessed using the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire (BPAQ). The data analysis process involves statistical techniques to examine the patterns of food consumption. It also explores their potential influence on behavioral traits, specifically aggression subtypes such as physical aggression, verbal aggression, anger, and hostility.

The results highlight the potential influence of diet on behavioral regulation, with a higher consumption of red meat aligning more closely with aggressive tendencies. Results show a significant negative correlation between nutrient-rich food intake and aggression, with vitamin E (r = -0.50, p < 0.01) and vitamin D (r = -0.45, p < 0.01) showing the most potent protective effects. Omega-3 fatty acids (r = -0.42, p < 0.01) and vitamin A (r = -0.33, p < 0.05) also contributed to reduced aggression. The analysis further explores correlations between specific food groups, including omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, D, and E, and their impact on psychological well-being and aggression tendencies.

The interpretation of findings highlights the significance of nutrient-rich diets in mitigating aggressive tendencies while identifying dietary patterns that may contribute to heightened aggression levels.

The study's findings confirm that a nutrient-rich diet reduces aggression by enhancing neurotransmitter function, lowering oxidative stress, and improving emotional resilience. Conversely, lower intake of these protective foods is associated with higher aggression scores, emphasizing the importance of dietary interventions in promoting psychological well-being.