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Page 24
Volume 5
Journal of Pediatric Care
ISSN: 2471-805X
JOINT EVENT
Neonatology 2019
Pediatrics Surgery 2019
April 23-24, 2019
April 23-24, 2019 London, UK
&
23
rd
Edition of International Conference on
Neonatology and Perinatology
4
th
International Conference on
Pediatrics and Pediatric Surgery
Role of nutrition and stimulation in infant brain development: An evidence based review
Surajeet Kumar Patra
RB Health, India
G
enes provide the blueprint for brain development but the environment shapes it. Nutrition in first 1000
days (Maternal nutrition and the child's nutrition in the first two years of life) are crucial factors in a child’s
neurodevelopment and lifelong mental health. The brain development is influenced by genetics (non-modifiable)
and environment-and that there is an early window of opportunity to provide the nourishment, stimulation and
security children need for their brains need to develop fully-and to help fulfill their own potential. In gestation
and infancy, the brain is an ‘energy hog’, consuming between 50 and 75 per cent of all the energy absorbed by the
body from food, including fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals. Inadequate nutrition, during that period affects the
structure and functions of the brain in ways that are difficult to offset later. Although all nutrients are necessary for
brain growth, key nutrients that support neurodevelopment include protein, specific fats (e.g LCPUFA), glucose,
iron, iodine, zinc, choline, folate, vitamins A, D, B6 and B12. Failure to provide key nutrients during this critical
period of brain development may result in lifelong deficits in brain function despite subsequent nutrient repletion.
Early stimulation and interaction with parents and caregivers jump start the journey of brain development and a
lifetime of learning.
Biography
Surajeet Kumar Patra has completed his MD at Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi and University of Delhi, India. He has published 27 papers in reputed
International journals and has participated in more than 15 international and national conferences as a Speaker and also won many awards. Currently, he has
been associated with RB Health in Medical Affairs.
Surajeet.Patra@rb.comSurajeet Kumar Patra, J Pediatr Care 2019, Volume 5
DOI: 10.21767/2471-805X-C1-020