Effect of Dietary Quality on Cognitive Function Among Primary School Children in Delta State

This study examines the effect of dietary quality on cognitive function among primary school children in Delta State, South South Nigeria. Adequate nutrition during middle childhood is fundamental to optimal brain development, academic learning, and cognitive performance, yet dietary quality among Nigerian primary school children remains suboptimal in many communities. Using a cross-sectional analytical design, the study targets 360 primary school children aged 6 to 12 in Warri South and Oshimili North local government areas. Dietary quality was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index adapted for Nigerian diets, and cognitive function was measured using the Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices and a validated attention and memory test battery. Anthropometric measurements were also collected. Objectives include quantifying dietary quality scores, assessing cognitive function across domains, and determining the effect of dietary quality on cognitive performance after controlling for socioeconomic confounders. Analytical methods include ANCOVA, multiple regression, and structural equation modelling. The Brain Nutrition Model provides the theoretical framework. Recent literature from South South Nigeria documents significant associations between dietary diversity and improved working memory and attention among primary school children. Findings are expected to establish dietary quality as an independent predictor of cognitive performance, with micronutrient adequacy emerging as the most critical dietary determinant. Recommendations address the Delta State Ministry of Health and Education, school administrators, and parents. Keywords: dietary quality, cognitive function, primary school children, nutrition, Delta State.