Modest-protein supplementation leads to short-term neurodevelopmental outcomes at 12 and 24 months of age

A recent study found that supplementation with a modest amount of protein and multiple micronutrients from two milk-cereal mixes may lead to short-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants aged 12 and 24 months. The results of this study were published in The British Journal of Nutrition.

This randomized controlled trial divided infants into three groups in a 1:1:1 ratio i.e. modest-protein group, high-protein group, and no-supplementation group. 1134 and 1214 children were available at 12 and 24 months, respectively.

It was observed that at 12 months of age, an increase in the motor scores and a decrease in the infant temperament scores was seen in the modest-protein group. Those infants who were in the high-protein group had lower socio-emotional scores and higher scores on the Infant Temperament Scale.

Based on the above results, it can be concluded that supplementation with a modest amount of protein and multiple micronutrients may lead to short-term neurodevelopmental outcomes such as small improvements in motor function and infant temperament.