Porridge helps kids perform better at school

London, Apr 10 (ANI): Infants who eat porridge in breakfast have better exam results at school, suggests a new study.

The study led by researchers from Middlebury College, Vermont has revealed that kids who followed such a diet before their third birthday had improved scores in reading and problem-solving tests than their peers.

Previous studies have shown that food rich in omega 3 such as fish improves reading, writing and spelling among children.

The new study suggests a significant association between food and brainpower.

"Before this study, only limited evidence spanning childhood to adulthood existed to support claims about the long-term effects of early childhood nutrition," the Telegraph quoted John Maluccio, lead author and assistant professor of economics at Middlebury College, Vermont as saying.

"This study confirms that the first three years of life represent a window of opportunity when nutrition programs can have lifelong benefits on a child's development, particularly in education," he added.

During the study, the researchers used 'atole', made with corn, rather than the traditional British oats used in porridge, although they share high protein levels. It was mixed with dry skimmed milk and sugar.

The researchers revealed that men and women who received atole as children achieved higher scores on reading comprehension tests and on non-verbal cognitive tests.

"We have long known that nutrition interventions can provide significant benefits in terms of a child's health and development," said John Hoddinott, a co-author and IFPRI senior research fellow. (ANI)