Bovine Milk Fat Globule Membrane Supplementation and Neurocognitive Development: A Systematic Review and...

Area of Science:

• Nutrition Science
• Developmental Pediatrics
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Limited evidence exists on the neurocognitive benefits of bovine milk fat globule membrane (BMGFM) in infant formula.
• This study addresses the need for conclusive data on BMGFM supplementation in infant formula.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the neurocognitive benefits of BMGFM supplementation in infant formula.
• To compare BMGFM-supplemented formula against standard formula.
• To assess the non-inferiority of BMGFM-supplemented formula to breast milk for cognitive development.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs).
• Searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase (January 2000 - March 2024).
• Included 8 RCTs with 1352 healthy neonates, infants, and children up to 2 years.

Main Results:

• BMGFM supplementation significantly improved cognitive development (MD: 3.29, 95% CI: 1.65 to 4.93, p < 0.001) with minimal heterogeneity (I² = 0%).
• Significant improvements were observed in executive function, but not in language, motor, or social-emotional development.
• Non-inferiority analysis showed no significant difference in cognitive development compared to breast milk.

Conclusions:

• BMGFM supplementation is a valuable addition to infant formula, enhancing cognitive development.
• BMGFM-supplemented formula demonstrates comparable cognitive development outcomes to breast milk.
• Further research may explore specific mechanisms and long-term effects.