Open AccessOptimum Iron Provision Potentiate the Cognitive Functions in Children-A Review Article
Author(s) -
Md Belal Uddin,
Laila Shamima Sharmin,
Khan Ishrat Jahan,
Manirul Haque Tarafder,
Md Razikul Islam
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
taj
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2408-8854
pISSN - 1019-8555
DOI - 10.3329/taj.v34i1.54915
Subject(s) - iron deficiency , cognition , micronutrient deficiency , iron deficiency anemia , micronutrient , anemia , cognitive decline , medicine , iodine deficiency , cognitive development , psychology , pediatrics , developmental psychology , gerontology , audiology , psychiatry , dementia , pathology , disease , thyroid
Micronutrient deficiencies, especially those related to iodine and iron, are linked to different cognitive impairments, as well as to potential long-term behavioral changes. Among the cognitive impairments caused by iron deficiency, those referring to attention span, intelligence, and sensory perception functions are mainly cited, as well as those associated with emotions and behavior, often directly related to the presence of iron deficiency anemia. In addition, iron deficiency without anemia may cause cognitive disturbances. At present, the prevalence of iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia is 2%–6% among European children. Given the importance of iron deficiency relative to proper cognitive development and the alterations that can persist through adulthood as a result of this deficiency, the objective of this study was to review the current state of knowledge about this health problem. The relevance of iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anemia, the distinction between the cognitive consequences of iron deficiency and those affecting specifically cognitive development, and the debate about the utility of iron supplements are the most relevant and controversial topics. Despite there being methodological differences among studies, there is some evidence that iron supplementation improves cognitive functions. Nevertheless, this must be confirmed through adequate follow-up studies among different groups.
TAJ 2021; 34: No-1: 115-122