Tag: Neurological development

Childhood stunting, a marker of chronic malnutrition, affects millions of children globally and can have profound, long-lasting consequences. A severe potential effect of chronic malnutrition is permanent cognitive impairment, impacting brain development and intellectual capacity for life. This devastating outcome highlights the critical window of early nutrition for a child's overall health and future success.

Research has documented that vitamin B12 deficiency can place children at high risk for permanent brain injury if left untreated, making it a critical factor to consider for any developmental concerns. This deficiency can manifest as developmental delays, including a significant impact on speech and language acquisition in toddlers.

According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the most common micronutrient deficiencies worldwide, especially in populations with low intake of animal-based foods. Answering the question, "Does B12 deficiency affect growth?" is critical, as a lack of this vital nutrient can have serious implications for development, particularly in infants and young children.