A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (October 2004;80(4):903-910) shows that supplementation with iron and zinc promotes motor development and exploratory behavior in infants at risk of micronutrient deficiencies. Deficiencies of minerals such as iron and zinc have been associated with impaired development in infants. Previous studies of separate supplementation with zinc or iron have had conflicting results. The present study is the first trial examining the effect of these two minerals on mental, motor, and behavioral development of infants.
Researchers recruited 221 infants from Bangladesh (a country with high micronutrient deficiencies) to participate in a double-blind trial. The infants were supplemented with either a liquid mixture of iron, zinc, iron and zinc, micronutrient mix or riboflavin (control) for six months (from 6 to 12 months of age). Psychological evaluations were carried out at 6 (baseline) and 12 months of age. The results showed that iron and zinc given together and with other micronutrients had a beneficial effect on infant motor development, while iron and zinc administered individually and in combination had a beneficial effect on orientation-engagement.
The developmental benefits observed were not associated with changes in hemoglobin levels, indicating the effect is not due to correction of anemia. The infants selected for the study were not formula-fed and were excluded if severely anemic. This study shows that iron and zinc must be given in combination to achieve developmental benefits and may explain why previous studies observed little effect when these minerals were given in isolation. It also points out the importance of adequate nutrition early in life. Breast-feeding mothers should continue to take a quality prenatal supplement as long as they are nursing.
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