Relationship between vitamin B12 levels and motor development: A systematic review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Developmental Biology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Nutrition is critical for brain development and function throughout life.
• Vitamin B12 is an essential micronutrient vital for motor nervous system development and function.
• Adequate nutrient balance is necessary for complex neurodevelopmental processes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of reduced vitamin B12 levels on infant motor development.
• To analyze the effectiveness of vitamin B12 supplementation in improving infant motor skills.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines and PROSPERO registration.
• Comprehensive literature search across major scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Science, ScienceDirect).
• Inclusion of eight studies with a total of 1,559 participants, analyzing diverse geographical contexts and designs.

Main Results:

• Studies on correcting low vitamin B12 levels utilized varied supplementation protocols (dose, method, duration).
• Post-supplementation serum vitamin B12 levels ranged widely from 131 pmol/L to 1141 pmol/L.
• Evidence suggests a link between low vitamin B12 and impaired motor development in infants.

Conclusions:

• Reduced vitamin B12 levels, particularly in early life, significantly affect infant motor development.
• Vitamin B12 supplementation shows potential for enhancing motor development in infants.
• Further research and public health policies are needed to address vitamin B12 deficiencies and their impact on development.