Children who consumed the least amounts of seafood at 7-years-old were likely to be less ‘prosocial’ at ages 7 and 9 years than those who regularly consumed seafood, according to a new study. ‘Prosocial’ behaviour includes friendly interactions, altruism, and sharing.
The new research from the University of Bristol reveals an association between fish intake and the behavioural development of children. The recommendation is that children should consume at least two portions of fish per week, with one of these being an oily fish such as salmon or mackerel.
Researchers used questionnaire data from 5,969 of the participants in the Children of the 90s* study, which has just received £5.2 million to continue running the pioneering longitudinal research. The data were collected over a period of 2 years and were adjusted for social and demographic factors.
Nearly all children in the study were not consuming enough seafood to reach the NHS’s recommendations.
Dr Caroline Taylor, Associate Professor in Nutrition at the University of Bristol, said:
“Our evidence to link fish consumption in children with the best behavioural development is clear, and we strongly recommend parents to provide at least two portions of fish a week in accordance with NHS guidelines. We hope these research findings empower parents with the knowledge to give their children the best start in life.”
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*www.bristol.ac.uk/alspac
