Eat More Fish, Commit Fewer Crimes?
In 2001, a study conducted by scientists in multiple countries showed a direct correlation between fish consumption and a decrease in crime rates.
In 2002, a follow-up survey of 231 young British inmates found that those who took supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids at least once every two weeks were 35% less likely to reoffend within five months of their release.
In 2003, a study published in the *American Journal of Psychiatry* reported that when a group of children aged 3 to 5 was put on a fish-rich diet, their subsequent crime rate 20 years later was 35% lower than that of the general population.
In 2005, a study indicated that consuming foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids for four consecutive months could reduce aggression in normal children aged 8 to 11. Psychologists have suggested that released prisoners should eat more fish or take omega-3 supplements to reduce the risk of reoffending.
Professor Adrian Raine, a criminologist, psychiatrist, and psychologist at the University of Pennsylvania, said at the Fourth Conference on Brain, Behavior, and Emotions in Brazil: "Omega-3 fatty acids have a beneficial effect on brain function and can reduce violent behavior. In reality, inmates rarely eat fish." A growing body of evidence attributes crime rates to biological factors, such as genetic dysfunction in the brain's prefrontal cortex. Raine noted that biological factors could account for at least 50% of crime rates.
In this context, nutritional interventions for prisoners could become a "natural therapy" to correct brains at risk.
Nutritional interventions, combined with cognitive-behavioral therapy, are likely to be helpful not only for prisoners but also for aggressive children and individuals exhibiting antisocial behavior. Raine believes: "Fish oil and omega-3 fatty acids can improve brain structure and attention, and perhaps those prone to violence need to correct their brain's function to better regulate emotional commands."
Although it is still unclear how much omega-3 fatty acid and fish consumption is needed to effectively prevent antisocial behavior and recidivism, researchers suggest that a daily intake of 1 gram of omega-3 fatty acids or eating fish 2 to 3 times a week might be the most appropriate amount.
Bernard Gesch, a researcher at the Department of Physiology, Anatomy, and Genetics at the University of Oxford, considers Raine's suggestions "very interesting." He said: "But nutrition is about balance. A lack of various nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, can lead to changes in behavior. Omega-3 fatty acids are just one of them." Gesch also pointed out that his research team will begin a new, larger experiment sponsored by the Wellcome Foundation, involving 1,000 prisoners. The aim of this study is to prevent antisocial behavior and demonstrate that a better diet leads to better health.