The Diet and Crime Connection

They say we are what we eat, but can the foods we’re missing out on make us more prone to substance abuse, crime, delinquency, learning disabilities, ADHD and lowered IQ or school performance?

Nutrient Deficiency and Crime

Stephen J. Schoenthaler, PhD, Professor of Sociology & Criminal Justice, California State University Stanislaus, has studied nutrition and behavior at juvenile and adult correctional facilities and in public schools, and the findings are astounding. One study of juvenile delinquents and adult felons in five states found that the offenders with the worst behavior consumed the least vitamins and minerals.

In California prisons, convicts with up to four nutritional deficiencies were 50 percent more likely to be involved in serious violent incidents, and those with five to nine nutrient deficiencies were 90 percent more likely to be involved in such incidents.

These results are noteworthy since they suggest that similar success could be had in the other areas affected by nutritional deficiencies. That doesn’t mean a balanced diet will keep everyone off drugs or eradicate ADHD, but being aware of the role blood chemistry plays can be one more tool to prevent and treat addiction and other disorders.

Addiction Treatment

If you or someone you love is battling an addiction, call The Oaks at La Paloma at our toll-free number. Someone is there to take your call 24 hours a day and answer any questions you have about treatment, financing or insurance.