Evaluating the effect of vitamins, minerals, herbs and supplements intake on learning performance in young adults (18-22 years old).

The consumption of vitamins, minerals, herbs and other supplements (VMHS) has grown in popularity over the past several years due to an increase in health and physical appearance awareness within the young population. However, there is very little information about the consumption of VMHS and the possible outcomes on learning performance. A validated questionnaire assessing the frequency and type of supplement use was developed and distributed, after obtaining ethical approval, to 18-22 years old students at De Montfort University (DMU, UK). Students reported the consumption of VMHS and the grades obtained during their last academic year. A total of 110 students (78 female and 32 male) participated in this study. No statistical significant difference was found due to sex and supplement consumption. 46.4% of the participants stated they took supplements sometimes or rarely with students from the Faculty of Business and Law reporting the lowest intake. The most commonly used were: multivitamins/minerals, vitamin C, vitamin D, iron, fish oil and Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis). Although most of the students reported some benefits from the consumption of VMHS, no significant relationship between their intake and examination results was seen. However, 50% of students who obtained first class marks (A or 1st) reported that they never used any VMHS. 25% of students, who reported frequent use of any of these substances, obtained very low marks (D or 3rd). Further research to assess the possible impact of supplements on learning should be performed due to the increase rates of consumption and acceptance of use of VMHS.