Alimentación complementaria y neurodesarrollo

Abstract

Introduction: Babies at birth their only food is breast milk, which provides nutrients, defenses and enough calories to meet their needs; After this period, children begin to require higher caloric and nutrient intakes that milk cannot compensate, so complementary foods that provide proteins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins required for growth are added. The present study looks for relating complementary feeding with neurodevelopment, taking into account that the first months of life are essential for the maturation of the central nervous system, it is where children begin to develop their motor, sensory and psychosocial abilities. Objective: To describe complementary feeding (CF) in children and its influence on their neurological development, based on the most current evidence, through a qualitative systematic review of the bibliography. Method: Retrospective observational study with a systematic review design. Studies published since 2017 were analyzed, including randomized clinical trials (RCTs), observational studies (OS), bibliographic reviews or meta-analyses, in English or Spanish. Results: It was verified that the evidence regarding BA and its relationship with neurodevelopment is insufficient, and most of the studies do not point to neurodevelopment specifically, but rather to development and general growth. Conclusions: It was determined that complementary feeding is a crucial process in the children’s development; This determines not only the growth and functionality of the present and future organism, but also has an impact at the behavioral level. Its relationship with neurological development, which is influenced by a multiplicity of factors, is not entirely clear. Parental education and health personnel are needed in Latin American countries to recommend evidence-based CF.