Abstract
Evidence associates scholastic performance to quality of eating habits. However, there is limited information on this topic in Turkey, an emerging economy with notable disparities. Our work aimed to evaluate the effect of eating habits quality of high-school students in Turkey, on the Scholastic Aptitude Standardized Examination (TEOG) scores. The study was conducted in 29 different cities in Turkey during the academic year 2016–2017, involving students of ages 14–17 years (up to senior-high school). A dietary habits survey developed and validated for this population was distributed over the internet in February 2017. Apart from students’ TEOG scores, Family Affluence Score (FAS) was used to categorize the students into low, medium, and high financial standing. Eating Habits Score (EHS) was calculated by using a validated scoring system. A working sample of 298 participants was used. Based on our results, we observed that there is a significant positive correlation between EHS, FAS and success rate of students as assessed by TEOG scores. Further research on this subject should be conducted in combination with intervention studies to reveal potential strategies and policies that would enhance positive behavior change as it relates to nutritional habits, aiming at improved scholastic performance and overall health throughout lifespan.
Highlights
IntroductionCognitive and academic performance are significantly affected by numerous determinants, including school quality indicators (i.e., facilities, teaching quality, allocated teaching time), of family characteristics (i.e., socioeconomic status (SES), parents’ educational level, and attitudes towards education)
Cognitive and academic performance are significantly affected by numerous determinants, including school quality indicators, of family characteristics (i.e., socioeconomic status (SES), parents’ educational level, and attitudes towards education)
The highest participation was from 11th grade with 96 participants (32.2%), while the least was from 12th grade with 48 (16.2%) (Table 1)
Summary
Cognitive and academic performance are significantly affected by numerous determinants, including school quality indicators (i.e., facilities, teaching quality, allocated teaching time), of family characteristics (i.e., socioeconomic status (SES), parents’ educational level, and attitudes towards education). Breakfast as part of a healthful diet and lifestyle, can positively impact children0 s health and overall well-being, especially including high-fiber and nutrient-rich whole grains, fruits, and dairy products [4]. It can be argued, within the aforementioned context, that an individual’s health and nutritional status are additional determinants of interest and indicators/predictors of scholastic performance [5]. Nutrition and optimal diet are key developmental drivers regarding ideal development both at the physical as well as the mental and cognitive level in adolescents In this context, an improved cognitive and mental state, translate into higher potential for improved scholastic performance subsequently leading to academic success, empowering students with more knowledge and superior set
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