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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
08:15
Recapitulating Suckling-to-Weaning Transition In Vitro using Fetal Intestinal Organoids
Published on: November 15, 2019
Functional ingredients in the complementary feeding period and long-term effects
Carlo Agostoni1, Enrica Riva, Marcello Giovannini
1Department of Pediatrics, San Paolo Hospital, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.
Nestle Nutrition Workshop Series. Paediatric Programme
|August 1, 2007
Summary
Micronutrient supplementation during infant complementary feeding shows potential benefits for brain development and visual acuity, but long-term effects and safety require further investigation, especially concerning overconsumption in Western countries.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Developmental Biology
- Public Health
Background:
- The complementary feeding period is crucial for infant growth and development.
- Micronutrient supplementation may benefit infants in developing and developed countries, but long-term impacts are under-researched.
- Existing evidence on iron and long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) has limitations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the long-term effects of micronutrient supplementation during complementary feeding.
- To investigate the role of specific nutrients like iron and LC-PUFAs on development.
- To examine emerging areas like probiotics, prebiotics, and zinc for immune system effects.
Main Methods:
- Review of observational studies on iron's role in brain development.
- Analysis of randomized trials on LC-PUFAs and visual acuity.
- Identification of research gaps in medium- and long-term effects and safety.
Main Results:
- Iron supplementation may benefit iron-deficient infants' brain development into adulthood.
- LC-PUFAs may improve short-term visual acuity maturation, but long-term links are unproven.
- Probiotics, prebiotics, and zinc show promise for immune system development.
Conclusions:
- Long-term effects of micronutrient supplementation during complementary feeding need extensive exploration.
- Safety concerns exist regarding overconsumption of supplements by young children in Western countries.
- Further research is essential to understand the full impact and safety profile of these interventions.
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