Nutrition is of critical importance during certain life stages, and this includes the phases of neurodevelopment. So, let’s look at what neurodevelopment is and why nutrition is important during these busy developmental stages.
So, what is neurodevelopment?
The period of neurodevelopment is a busy and complex time. It is the process when the nervous system which includes the brain, spinal cords and nerves begins to develop and mature. This begins in utero during pregnancy and continues across infancy, early life and indeed into childhood and adolescence.
Neurodevelopment is many different things – it’s the formation of connections between brain regions and the nervous system, the growth and development of nerve cells and the formation of brain circuits. So, the nutrients that are needed to fuel these process become rather important.
Why the first 1001 days is so important?
The first 1001 days is typically defined as the period from conception to 2 years of age. This life-stage as been ear marked as being exceptionally important as this is when key developmental processes are taking place. One of which is neurodevelopment.
Which nutrients are important?
A range of nutrients are needed for neurodevelopment to reinforce brain growth, structure and function. Some of these include:
§ Antioxidants (including vitamin E)
§ Choline
§ Copper
§ Folate/folic acid, also known as vitamin B9
§ Iodine
§ Iron
§ Magnesium
§ Omega-3 fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid)
§ Vitamin B12
§ Vitamin D
§ Zinc, amongst others…
How do these nutrients assist neurodevelopment?
By way of example let’s focus on three core nutrients: 1) choline, 2) iodine and 3) omega-3 fatty acids. Firstly, choline is involved in the formation of the brain neurotransmitter acetylcholine which is important for memory and brain function. It is also needed in the brain hippocampus (a part located near to the centre of the brain), a part of the brain involved in learning and memory.
Secondly, iodine is required to produce thyroid hormones which are needed for brain development. It is now well recognised in the scientific literature that iodine deficiency and lead to developmental delays and brain (cognitive) impairments.
Thirdly, omega-3 fatty acids which include docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid are needed to form brain cell membranes, shape and maintain nerve connections and reinforce the development of the myelin sheath – a fatty coat that surrounds nerves cells insulating them and speeding up signal transmission.
Concluding points
Overall, nutrition plays a fundamental role in reinforcing neurodevelopment which includes cores life stages such as pregnancy, infancy and early life. A balanced intake of nutrients is important to facilitate the development of processes such as myelination, neurotransmitter production and the formation of nerve cells and circuits. All these processes are central to learning, memory and emotional regulation.
Shortfalls of nutrients during such key developmental windows may have lasting effects which may manifest as developmental delays and cognitive impairments. Understanding the value of nutrient during the key life stage of neurodevelopment is important as a proactive approach can be taken to reinforce brain health in the short and longer term.
By Dr Emma Derbyshire | BSc (hons), PhD, PGCHE, RNutr (Public Health), Level 7 SpLD APC (PATOSS)
Related references:
Cainelli E & Bisiacchi P (2022) Neurodevelopmental Disorders: Past, Present, and Future. Children 10(1): 31.
Cortés-Albornoz MC et al. (2021) Maternal Nutrition and Neurodevelopment: A Scoping Review. Nutrients 13(10: 3530.
Derbyshire EJ & Maes M (2023) The Role of Choline in Neurodevelopmental Disorders-A Narrative Review Focusing on ASC, ADHD and Dyslexia. Nutrients 15(13): 2876.
Heland S et al. (2022) The role of nutrients in human neurodevelopment and their potential to prevent neurodevelopmental adversity. Front Nutr 9: 992120.
