How does nutrition and diet affect a baby’s brain development?
By Dr Ong Eng Keow Paediatrician The link between breast-feeding and brain development has been well established. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that breastfed infants tested 5.2 IQ points higher than formula fed infants. Though the reasons for this improvement in IQ are controversial, studies have shown that milk rich in certain fatty acids aid in the development of the brain. Two lipids important to the brain are the omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. Low levels of omega-3 fatty acids in a diet can cause visual problems especially by affecting the retina. Studies in animals have shown that diets without omega-3 fatty acids cause learning, motivation and motor. The omega-6 fatty acids are also important in proper brain function because they affect neurotransmitter release and they also influence the ability of neurons to use glucose. These omega fatty acids are not produced by the body and have to be ingested. These present in breast milk in the f
