Protein intake and neurodevelopmental outcomes

Abstract

There is a compelling body of literature that suggests that the provision of an inadequate amount of protein to preterm infants in the neonatal period has detrimental effects on the developing brain with the potential to result in long-term, neurodevelopmental sequelae. Although a great deal of indirect evidence implies that the provision of adequate amounts of protein may be associated with better neurodevelopmental outcomes, there remains a paucity of direct evidence that would allow us to draw any final conclusions.

Keywords: Neonatal; Neurodevelopment; Outcomes; Prematurity; Protein.