Reference
Anjos, T., Altmäe, S., Emmett, P., Tiemeier, H., Closa-Monasterolo, R., Luque, V., ... & Campoy, C., & The NUTRIMENTHE Research Group. (2013). Nutrition and neurodevelopment in children: focus on NUTRIMENTHE project. European Journal of Nutrition, 52(8), 1825-1842. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-013-0560-4
Review
Anjos et al. (2013) delve into the potential links between early nutrition and subsequent cognitive performance in children. Recognizing the profound implications this relationship holds for health policy, human biology, economic development, and beyond, the article gives weight to the role of maternal diet during gestation and its potential to mold future cognitive and behavioral outcomes of the offspring.
Central to the review is the acknowledgment of certain micronutrients—specifically folate, n-3 fatty acids, and iron—as playing pivotal roles in brain development. While the advocacy for nutrient-rich diets for pregnant women isn't novel, the article brings to light the notion that simplistic, single-nutrient supplementation may not be as effective as more comprehensive formulas. This perspective offers a more nuanced view of nutritional recommendations, suggesting that a holistic approach might be more effective. Additionally, the review appropriately underscores the importance of considering genetic variability in future research endeavors. A notable element of this work is its presentation of the European Project NUTRIMENTHE, which aims to further unravel the complexities of nutrition’s impact on cognition and behavior in children.
Anjos et al. (2013) offer a balanced overview of the existing evidence connecting nutrition to cognitive and behavioral outcomes in children. By emphasizing the need for further research, especially in the realm of holistic supplementation and genetic factors, the review aptly points towards future research directions and provides foundational knowledge for those interested in the nexus of nutrition and neurodevelopment.
