Scientific research reveals that inadequate nutrition in the later stages of pregnancy or malnutrition during the first year after birth may damage children’s intellectual development. Therefore, ensuring the health of mothers and infants should start early in pregnancy, not only to prevent infections but also to ensure that pregnant women receive adequate nutrition to promote healthy fetal growth. The newborn’s nervous system is not fully mature at birth, especially in the first year after birth, particularly during the first month, when brain development is most rapid and also most fragile. During this stage, in addition to medical factors, appropriate feeding methods are crucial. The following points need attention:
First, low blood sugar in newborns can harm neuronal metabolism, leading to hindered intellectual development. It is essential to prevent babies from being in a state of starvation. For babies born with low birth weight or small size, timely feeding is necessary to prevent low blood sugar.
Second, the ideal birth weight of a newborn is around 3000 grams, with an average monthly weight gain of 600 grams in the first six months and around 500 grams in the following six months, reaching a weight of 9000-10000 grams by the age of one. Slow weight gain below standards should be checked for improper feeding, as severe malnutrition can directly affect brain development.
Head circumference is an important indicator for evaluating brain development. The average head circumference of a newborn is about 34 centimeters, increasing by 8 to 10 centimeters in the first six months and by 2 to 4 centimeters in the second six months, reaching around 46 centimeters by the age of one. The growth rate slows down thereafter until adult head circumference stabilizes between 56 to 58 centimeters. A significantly smaller head circumference may indicate poor brain development.
Finally, certain genetic metabolic disorders, such as phenylketonuria and galactosemia, result from specific enzyme deficiencies. Affected babies may appear normal at birth, but routine feeding may later lead to intellectual disabilities and liver issues. Early diagnosis and special dietary intervention for such diseases are crucial. Starting treatment within the first month after birth can largely prevent impacts on intellectual development. If a baby experiences difficulty in breastfeeding, frequent vomiting, persistent jaundice, or urine with unusual odor, prompt medical examination is necessary for early diagnosis and treatment to protect intellectual development.
Proper feeding of newborns is directly linked to their future intellectual levels and should be greatly emphasized.
