Nutrition and brain development in early life / 中国儿童保健杂志

ABSTRACT

The early life period is a rapid period, as well as a critical/sensitive period for brain development. Proteins, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs), iron, zinc, iodine, folate, choline, vitamins A, D, B6, and B12, all play a role in key neural development processes and thus influence brain development. Different brain regions or circuits have specific critical periods during different stages of development that depend on specific nutrients. Any nutrient deficiency during this period, even if corrected with supplementation, may still affect the trajectory of brain development and result in long-term cognitive and behavioral impairment. This article elucidates the effects of major nutrient deficiencies during early life on brain development, the possible sensitive/critical timing, and the impacts on long-term cognitive and behavioral development, providing insights for the prevention and intervention of nutritional diseases and psychiatric developmental disorders, and the promotion of early childhood development.