Diet, Aggression and Violent Behaviour
From an old ACNEM lecture. Ignored for too long. A sick mind is both hungry and poisoned. For too long, psychosocial attributes have taken centre stage.
The relationship between nutrition and aggressive or violent behaviour has garnered significant attention in the scientific community, revealing complex interactions between dietary patterns, specific nutrients, and behavioural outcomes. Current research findings on how diet, macronutrients, micronutrients, and chemical additives in foods influence aggressive and violent behaviour in very significant ways will be discussed.
Diet and Dietary Patterns
Emerging and past evidence suggests that overall dietary patterns play a crucial role in modulating aggressive behaviour. Studies have identified associations between diets high in processed and sugary foods and increased aggression, while diets rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains tend to be associated with lower aggression levels 1 2. For instance, the consumption of high-fat, sugar, and salt (HFSS) diets has been linked to increased physical aggression in preschoolers, suggesting that unhealthy dietary patterns may exacerbate aggressive behaviours 1.
Macronutrients
Macronutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, have been studied for their potential impact on aggression. High intake of saturated fats and trans-fatty acids has been associated with increased aggression in both animal models and human studies 2 3. Conversely, diets low in carbohydrates and high in proteins and fats, particularly those rich in omega-3 fatty acids, have been shown to reduce aggression and fear in certain populations, such as Göttingen minipigs 2. These findings underscore the importance of the type and quality of macronutrients in influencing behavioural outcomes.
Micronutrients
Micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals, have been extensively researched for their role in brain health and behaviour. Deficiencies in B vitamins (such as B12, B6, and folate) and minerals (such as zinc, magnesium, and iron) have been consistently linked to increased aggression and violence 7 8 9. These nutrients are crucial for neurotransmitter synthesis, brain development, and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, all of which can influence aggressive behaviour.
For example, vitamin D deficiency has been associated with increased aggression, while supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, which can act as precursors to anti-inflammatory compounds, has shown effectiveness in reducing aggressive behaviour 8 9. Similarly, magnesium supplementation has been found to reduce aggressiveness in children with ADHD, highlighting the potential of micronutrient interventions in managing aggressive behaviour 8.
Chemical Additives
The inclusion of synthetic trans-fats in diets has been significantly linked to aggression 3. These findings suggest that not only the absence of beneficial nutrients but also the presence of harmful additives in the diet can contribute to aggressive behaviours. The detrimental effects of trans fats may extend beyond the individual consuming them, affecting others with whom they interact 3.
Conclusion
The interplay between diet, macronutrients, micronutrients, and chemical additives in influencing aggressive and violent behavior is complex and multifaceted. While deficiencies in certain nutrients appear to increase the risk of aggression, the inclusion of specific beneficial nutrients and dietary patterns can mitigate these behaviours. Future research should continue to explore these relationships, with an emphasis on interventional studies that can provide more definitive evidence on the causal links between nutrition and aggression. Additionally, public health policies and interventions aimed at improving dietary habits could play a significant role in reducing aggression and promoting mental health and well-being.
the most common micronutrient deficiencies that are linked to aggressive behavior
The most common micronutrient deficiencies linked to aggressive behaviour are iron and zinc deficiencies. These deficiencies are not only widespread globally, affecting an estimated 2 billion people, but they also have significant implications for mental and physical health. Iron deficiency, which leads to anaemia, is the single most common micronutrient deficiency worldwide. It is particularly prevalent among pregnant women and young children, who are the most vulnerable groups. Iron plays a crucial role in brain function, and its deficiency has been associated with impaired cognitive development, which can influence behaviour and lead to increased aggression.
Zinc deficiency is another common micronutrient deficiency with a global impact. Zinc is essential for immune function, cell growth, and brain development. Deficiencies in zinc have been linked to a range of behavioural issues, including increased aggression. The importance of zinc for cognitive function and emotional regulation suggests that inadequate zinc levels can contribute to aggressive behaviours.
Both iron and zinc deficiencies are preventable and treatable conditions. Addressing these deficiencies through improved nutrition, supplementation, and fortification of foods can have a positive impact on reducing aggressive behaviours linked to micronutrient deficiencies. Given the widespread nature of these deficiencies and their potential impact on behaviour, public health interventions aimed at improving micronutrient status could play a crucial role in mitigating aggression and violence at the individual and societal levels 3 5 813.
The most common macronutrients found in foods that are linked to aggressive behaviour.
The most common macronutrients found in foods that are linked to aggressive behaviour include saturated fats, trans fats, and simple carbohydrates or sugars. These macronutrients have been consistently associated with increased aggression across various studies, suggesting a significant impact on behaviour and mental health.
Saturated Fats and Trans Fats
Saturated fats and trans fats are types of unhealthy fats that have been linked to increased aggression. The consumption of these fats can disrupt the production of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, increase inflammation, and negatively impact brain function and neurotransmitters. This can lead to heightened aggression and irritability in individuals 3 4 5 6 7. For example, dietary trans fats have been shown to be a more consistent predictor of aggression than some traditional risk factors such as age, sex, and smoking 47.
Simple Carbohydrates/Sugars
Diets high in simple carbohydrates or sugars, often found in processed foods and sugary drinks, are also associated with higher levels of aggression and violence. The consumption of simple sugars may impact mental functions, contribute to psychiatric issues, and result in aggression. This is supported by studies linking sugary drink consumption with violence and aggressive behaviour 8 9.
Conversely, diets higher in fibre, healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, and protein are associated with a lower risk of aggression. These nutrients support brain health, reduce inflammation, and can have a calming effect on behaviour 2 3.
In summary, the macronutrients most commonly linked to aggressive behaviour are saturated fats, trans fats, and simple carbohydrates or sugars. Addressing these dietary factors by reducing the intake of unhealthy fats and sugars while increasing the consumption of fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein may help mitigate aggressive behaviours.
How does a high-fat diet affect behaviour?
High-fat diets, particularly those rich in saturated and trans fats, have been linked to various negative behavioural outcomes, including increased aggression and impaired cognitive functions. This connection has been observed across multiple studies involving both human subjects and animal models.
Research involving animals such as mice, rats, and monkeys has consistently shown that diets high in saturated fats and cholesterol can lead to increased aggressive and agonistic behaviours. For example, studies have demonstrated that monkeys and pigs fed high-fat diets exhibit more aggressive behaviours compared to those on lower-fat diets 1 59.
In humans, the consumption of trans fatty acids, which are commonly found in processed foods, has been associated with higher levels of irritability, aggression, and even violence. This association has been observed across various demographics, indicating a broad and concerning impact of these fats on human behaviour 3 4.
The mechanisms by which high-fat diets influence behaviour are complex and multifaceted. Unhealthy fats can interfere with the normal functioning of neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers in the brain that play key roles in mood and behaviour regulation 1 2. High intakes of saturated and trans fats has been shown to increase inflammation within the body, including the brain. Chronic inflammation is linked to various negative outcomes, including impaired brain function and behaviour changes 1 2. There is evidence suggesting that high-fat diets can affect the physical structure of the brain, particularly areas involved in emotion regulation and cognitive function, further contributing to behavioural issues 1 2.
High-fat diets, especially those lacking in nutritional diversity, can lead to deficiencies in critical nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, zinc, and magnesium. These deficiencies have been independently linked to increased aggression and behavioural disturbances 8.
Overall, the evidence suggests that high-fat diets, particularly those rich in unhealthy fats, are associated with increased aggression and other negative behavioural outcomes. These effects are mediated through mechanisms such as neurotransmitter disruption, increased inflammation, and direct impacts on brain structure and function. In contrast, diets rich in healthy fats, such as omega-3 fatty acids, appear to have protective effects against aggression and promote better overall brain health 1 5 8.
Chemical additives and aggressive behaviour.
Research has increasingly highlighted the role of certain chemical additives in foods as potential contributors to aggressive behaviour, particularly in children. These additives include artificial colours, preservatives, and flavour enhancers, which are commonly found in processed and ultra-processed foods.
Artificial colours such as Tartrazine (E102), Sunset Yellow (E110), Carmoisine (E122), and Ponceau 4R (E124) have been linked to behavioural changes including hyperactivity and aggression in children 3 9. These synthetic dyes are often used in candies, beverages, and other brightly coloured foods to enhance their appearance.
Preservatives
Preservatives like sodium benzoate (E211) and various nitrates and nitrites (E249-E252) are used to extend the shelf life of foods but have been associated with increased hyperactivity and aggressive behaviour 3. Sodium benzoate, in particular, was found to exacerbate hyperactive behaviours in a study involving a fruit juice consumed by children, which contained this preservative along with artificial colours 3.
Flavour Enhancers
Monosodium glutamate (MSG - E621) and related compounds such as disodium inosinate (E627) and disodium guanylate (E631) are flavour enhancers that can also impact behaviour. Although primarily linked to other health issues, there is concern about their role in behavioural disorders due to their widespread use in savoury snacks, prepared meals, and fast foods 3 7.
Impact and Recommendations
The consumption of these additives can lead to dose-related behavioural effects, including irritability, temper outbursts, and oppositional defiance. The more additives children consume, the more likely they are to exhibit these negative behaviours 3.
To mitigate these effects it is advisable to read food labels and avoid products containing harmful additives by carefully reading ingredient lists. Choose whole foods and emphasise a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which are free from synthetic additives. Identify and remove potential trigger foods to see if behaviour improves, particularly in children showing signs of aggression or hyperactivity. Increase awareness about the potential behavioural effects of food additives and support policies for better food labelling and reduced use of harmful additives.
Overall, reducing exposure to these additives and focusing on a nutrient-rich, whole-food-based diet can help decrease the risk of aggression and improve overall mental health and behaviour.
Medications that cause aggressive behaviour.
Added 1st. May, 2024.
Medications can influence aggressive behaviour through complex and often poorly understood mechanisms, impacting neurotransmitters and brain function. This effect is observed across various classes of drugs, including psychotropic and non-psychotropic medications.
The mechanisms influencing aggression include neurotransmitter effects, paradoxical reactions, inflammatory and hormonal effects. Many medications affect neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and GABA. For instance, drugs that increase levels of dopamine or noradrenaline or decrease serotonin or GABA can promote aggressive behaviours. This is particularly noted with antidepressants like SSRIs and SNRIs, which alter serotonin and noradrenaline levels 1 2 4 5. Drugs like benzodiazepines, intended to have calming effects, can sometimes cause paradoxical reactions such as increased irritability, aggression, and impulsivity, particularly in children, the elderly, and individuals with intellectual disabilities 5
Some medications can induce inflammation or affect hormonal balance, contributing to changes in behaviour and aggression. This includes corticosteroids and some anti-epileptic drugs 4 5. The drugs most linked to aggression are the anti-epileptic medications, psychiatric medications and others that dont have a direct effect on the nervous system.
Medications such as levetiracetam, perampanel, and topiramate are frequently associated with aggression, especially in paediatric populations 5 7. Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs), antipsychotics, and stimulants are known to have a higher risk of inducing aggressive behaviour 1 4 5. Non-psychiatric drugs like corticosteroids, certain antihistamines, and cholesterol-lowering drugs (e.g., statins) have also been implicated in increasing aggression 3 4.
There are mitigation strategies such as monitoring, education and medication management. I will be covering the superior and natural methods of patient care and management in other Substacks. It is crucial to monitor patients for behavioural changes, particularly those known to be at higher risk (e.g., children, the elderly). Educating patients and caregivers about the potential for aggression as a side effect is essential45. If aggressive behaviour emerges, consider adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the offending medication. Alternative medications with a lower risk of inducing aggression may be considered 4 5.
Understanding the complex relationship between medications and aggressive behaviour is vital for clinicians to manage and mitigate risks effectively. Ongoing research and clinical vigilance are required to further elucidate these mechanisms and improve patient outcomes. Most medications can be replaced with nutritional therapies that also improve the patient’s general health and prevent other diseases.
MORE TO COME INCLUDING A TALK AND COMMENTS ABOUT THE CURRENT EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE.
Do the endotoxins, DNA contamination, lipid nanoparticles, mRNA and derivative Spike proteins found in the Covid vaccines cause violent and aggressive behaviour?
Ian Brighthope
Amazing, thank you for the specific foods/ingredients to look out for. I have heard Dr. Ana Mihalcea, MD talk about how the Covid vaccine is wiping out people's gut bacteria (microbiome) completely and I'm wondering if this has something to do with the aggressive behavior I've seen from people recently?
On the brightside, thank you for all you do and enjoy your day!
Doc you attempted to do the impossible. Define a topic and list the nutritional correlations in one article. A very good synopsis with loads of pertinent info.
The issue could also be attacked from a different angle.
The word Diet comes from dietus, loosely translated into the way we live.
A strong argument could be made that we should thus choose wisely and not be manipulated by
corporate junk food purveyors.
Choosing wisely is not just avoidance strategies, it is better framed with a discussion about what
food is and is not.
"health begins in the colon" this adage is timeless preceding the current "microbiome" lingo
Other giants have said more of less the same thing...