30 April 2010
Attention-deficit and hyperactivity problems in children may be associated with low vitamin B9 (folate) levels during pregnancy, suggests a new UK study.
In the study, blood samples of 100 mothers in early pregnancy were taken to measure vitamin B9 (folate) levels (1). After a follow-up of an average of 8.75 years, the mothers reported on their children's behavior using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The results showed that low maternal levels of folate were associated with both higher childhood hyperactivity and peer problems scores.
These findings further support the hypothesis that maternal nutrition contributes to an individual’s development, with potential consequences for their behavior later in life, the researchers commented. The long-term effects of poor maternal nutrition may even branch out to the child’s ability to interact with peers or form social bonds.
The scientists speculate that the low folate levels may impair the development of the brain in the fetus. Early pregnancy is a critical time for brain development.
A Dutch study reported earlier that the children of mothers who took folic acid supplements during pregnancy were better at internalizing and externalizing problems, compared to the children of mothers who did not take supplements.
An overwhelming body of evidence links folate deficiency in early pregnancy to increased risk of neural tube defects (NTDs) in infants.
9 November 2013
According to a new study from Cyprus, treating patients with dry age-related macular degeneration with high-dose omega-3 fatty acids seems to significantly improve their vision acuity.
15 June 2018
Julian Bailes, M.D., initiated some of the earliest research focused on DHA omega-3 to support an athlete’s brain, and the University of Wyoming is now embracing it with their athletes.
30 November 2012
Diabetic patients who have adequate blood vitamin D concentrations are less likely to develop clogged arteries compared to vitamin D deficient diabetics, suggests a new US study.
