Perinatal Nutritional Deficiencies and Their Impact on Neonatal Brain Development Mechanisms

Abstract

Background: Adequate maternal nutrition throughout the perinatal period is necessary for optimal prenatal growth and neonatal brain development. Nutritional deficiencies such as iron, iodine, folate, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and other micronutrients can interfere with critical neurodevelopmental processes including neuronal proliferation, synaptogenesis, myelination and neurotransmitter synthesis. These deficiencies can increase risk of cognitive, behavioral and neurological defects in newborns and later childhood.

Objective: The present study was intended to explore the effects of perinatal nutritional deficiencies on mechanisms of neonatal brain development and determine key neurodevelopmental outcomes related to inadequate maternal nutrition.

Methodology: A narrative review of peer-reviewed papers published between 2020 and 2026 was performed using the PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. We conducted a systematic review of the relevant literature on maternal nutritional status, neonatal neurodevelopment and brain maturation processes.

Results: The review found that maternal iron deficiency corresponded with a 33% increase in neurological delays, while inadequate folate intakes increased neuronal growth abnormalities by 27%. Iodine deficiency was linked to a 24% decline in measures of cognitive performance, and inadequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids was associated with a 21% drop in markers of neuronal connectivity. Overall, deficiencies in nutrition had a substantial impact on the developing neonatal brain structure and function.

Conclusion: Perinatal nutritional deficiencies impair the mechanisms of neonatal brain development and can cause long-term neurodevelopmental deficits. In the early stages of life, nutritional interventions and support for maternal diet are vital for a healthy brain development and better neonatal outcomes.