Nutrition and brain development: social policy implications

Am J Orthopsychiatry. 2002 Apr;72(2):182-93. doi: 10.1037/0002-9432.72.2.182.

Abstract

Undernutrition among young children is widespread in the United States and has a detrimental impact on brain development. This article explores the risks associated with undernutrition and the potential for recovery when diet and the environment improve. Three policy implications are discussed: (a) increasing access to federal food programs, (b) promoting breastfeeding, and (c) working toward reducing child poverty.

MeSH terms

  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / epidemiology
  • Anemia, Iron-Deficiency / prevention & control
  • Brain / growth & development*
  • Brain / physiopathology*
  • Breast Feeding
  • Child
  • Child Nutrition Disorders / epidemiology
  • Child Nutrition Disorders / physiopathology*
  • Child Nutrition Disorders / prevention & control*
  • Cognition Disorders / epidemiology
  • Developmental Disabilities / epidemiology
  • Developmental Disabilities / prevention & control
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Environment
  • Failure to Thrive
  • Health Promotion
  • Humans
  • Micronutrients / deficiency
  • Nutrition Policy / legislation & jurisprudence
  • Nutritional Status
  • Protein-Energy Malnutrition / epidemiology
  • Protein-Energy Malnutrition / prevention & control
  • Public Policy*
  • Social Behavior
  • Socioeconomic Factors

Substances

  • Micronutrients