21 June 2006
Dear Sir,
The British Medical Association’s report highlights a very important point (Child mental health disorders have soared, 21 June). That the latest major rise in mental health disorders among children may be attributable in large part to their diet, as well as to causes such as family break-up and alcohol abuse.
In the last 50 years we have witnessed huge changes to the way that food is produced and manufactured, and as a result, to its nutritional value. Pesticides, additives and trans-fats have been introduced to the diet and we consume fewer essential fats, vitamins and minerals. The brain, like any other organ of the body, relies on nutrition for its development, and is affected by what we eat.
Work is urgently needed to find out how we can turn this tide, or future generations are likely to be even further plagued by mental ill-health. The growing evidence base is already very strong, the intellectual case for more research is overwhelming, and Government should make it a priority.
Celia Richardson
Director of Communications
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