Impact of a nutrient-rich health bar intervention on health and cognitive performance among children and adolescents in the B40 community in Gombak

Abstract

Diet and nutrition are vital in preventing cognitive decline, yet research on their impact on children and adolescents, particularly in Malaysia, remains limited. This study evaluated the effects of a health bar intervention on the health and cognitive performance of children and adolescents from the B40 community. A health bar formulated with date powder, moringa, sacha inchi oil, and pumpkin seeds was assessed for acceptability and efficacy. Seventy participants aged 10–16 from two boarding schools underwent an eight-week intervention, during which anthropometric measurements, PedsQL 4.0, and RAVLT were used to evaluate health and cognitive outcomes. The results revealed significant improvements in physical health, emotional well-being, and mental performance, particularly among males, highlighting the influence of socioeconomic factors on nutrition and cognition. Overall, the health bar intervention led to significant improvements in physical health and cognitive function, suggesting the need for extended study durations and diverse data collection methods for future research.