How diet affects the brain in adolescents
Diet and the Adolescent Brain
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM · NIH-10705079
This study is looking at how what teenagers eat affects their brains and how they think and feel, hoping to find out why a bad diet might make it harder for them to focus and do well in school.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10705079 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of diet on the adolescent brain, focusing on how different dietary patterns influence brain structure and function. By examining the connections between diet, behavior, and academic performance, the study aims to uncover the neural mechanisms that may explain the effects of poor diet during this critical developmental period. The research utilizes advanced imaging techniques to assess brain microstructure and neurochemistry in adolescents, linking these findings to cognitive tasks related to attention, learning, and emotional regulation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are male adolescents aged 12 to 18 who are experiencing behavioral or academic challenges.
Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those with pre-existing neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved dietary recommendations that enhance cognitive and emotional health in adolescents.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results linking diet to cognitive function in animal models, but this research is among the first to explore these connections in human adolescents.
Where this research is happening
BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM — BIRMINGHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MRUG, SYLVIE — UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA AT BIRMINGHAM
- Study coordinator: MRUG, SYLVIE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.