Human Milk Bioactive Compounds and Psychomotor Outcomes in Infants and Children: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Human milk composition and infant development
• Nutritional science and pediatrics
• Bioactive compounds and psychomotor outcomes

Background:

• Human milk (HM) is crucial for infant development, providing essential nutrients and bioactive compounds (BCs).
• Understanding the impact of specific HM BCs on psychomotor development is vital for child health.
• Existing research shows variability in the effects of different HM components.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the short- and long-term effects of individual HM BC groups on psychomotor outcomes.
• To evaluate impacts on motor, cognitive, language, and executive functions in healthy, term, breastfed children.
• To synthesize evidence from studies with follow-up up to 18 years.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across major databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase).
• Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines, using PECOTS framework for eligibility.
• Quality assessment of 18 included studies using JBI and Cochrane Risk of Bias tools.

Main Results:

• Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), especially n-3 PUFAs, showed consistent positive associations with psychomotor development.
• Fucosylated human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) were linked to improved cognitive and language outcomes.
• Evidence for other BCs like proteins, phospholipids, and carotenoids was inconsistent or limited.

Conclusions:

• Specific HM BCs, notably n-3 PUFAs and fucosylated HMOs, may positively influence psychomotor development across childhood.
• The overall evidence base is heterogeneous, highlighting the need for further investigation.
• Standardized research methodologies are required to clarify long-term effects and mechanisms of HM BCs.