The role of micronutrients in psychomotor and cognitive development

Abstract

The literature on the effects of micronutrients on cognitive, motor and behavioural development is reviewed focusing mainly on children. Iron, zinc, iodine and vitamins are discussed. The review is selective and concentrates on the more recent work and areas of controversy. There are well established associations with poor development and iron and iodine deficiency but the deficiencies usually occur in disadvantaged circumstances and establishing causal relationships is difficult.