Unraveling the Diet-Learning Nexus: a cross-sectional deep dive into Iranian adolescents' nutrient patterns and learning difficulties.

BACKGROUND

learning difficulties (LDs), which encompass deficits in academic achievement and cognitive processing, are associated with significant functional challenges. Research indicates that dietary patterns and nutrient intake represent environmental factors that may exert influence on the phenotypic expression or trajectory of such neurodevelopmental disorders. This study examined the association between nutrient patterns and LDs in school-aged adolescents in Iran.

METHODS

A cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study was conducted from March to June 2024 in four secondary schools (two all-female and two all-male) in Jahrom, Iran. A total of 455 male and female adolescents aged 14 to 18 years participated. Adolescents with pre-existing medical conditions (cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, hepatic or renal disease), those following specific dietary regimens, or with incomplete data were excluded. LDs were assessed using the Colorado Learning Difficulties Questionnaire (CLDQ). Dietary intake was assessed via a validated 168-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Seven nutrient patterns (NP) were identified through factor analysis. Anthropometric measurements and socioeconomic variables were also collected. Higher scores of CLDS reflect greater LDs.

RESULTS

Adolescents were classified into tertiles based on CLDS. The first tertile of NPs and CLDS was considered as a reference. Moderate adherence to NP4, characterized by higher glutamine and lower glucose, fructose, vitamins C, A, and E, and potassium, was associated with increased odds of being in the highest CLDS tertile in the fully adjusted model (OR 2.50; 95% CI 1.32–4.71). High adherence to NP7, characterized by lower intake of sodium, MUFA, and vitamin D, was associated with lower odds of being in the highest CLDS tertile in the full adjusted model (OR 0.48; 95% CI 0.25–0.91).

CONCLUSION

Adherence to a low antioxidant and glucose-content NP diet characterized by higher glutamine and lower intakes of glucose, fructose, vitamins C, A, and E, and potassium was positively associated with LDs in Iranian adolescents. Additionally, high adherence to a low-sodium diet was associated with lower odds of being in the highest CLDS tertile.