Many mothers believe that investing in expensive milk advertised as containing smart nutrients will ensure their children are exceptionally bright. In reality, the process of “creating” intelligence is not that straightforward.
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| Bifidobacteria in the gut help children absorb nutrients from “formula milk” effectively (Image: probiotics) |
Numerous studies have shown that optimal brain development is based on a foundation of physical growth. The impact of poor physical development on cognitive growth is significant, not only in the present but also for the future.
Recent research conducted at the University of Bristol (UK) indicates that a child who is underweight at birth will develop more slowly and have lower IQ scores compared to children of normal weight. Furthermore, children with stunted growth due to inadequate height and weight gain (indicators of malnutrition) often experience delayed cognitive development and perform poorly academically.
Thus, the process of nutrient absorption in children plays a crucial role in ensuring normal physical development. Numerous studies have demonstrated that bifidobacteria (also known as Bifidus bacteria) present in the gut enhance the absorption of nutrients from “formula milk”. They also improve the absorption of water, calcium, and various other minerals, while producing vitamins A, B1, B6, B12, K, and biotin for the child’s use. Bifidus bacteria also enhance the metabolism of lactose and protein in milk. In other words, Bifidus optimizes nutrient absorption, contributing to a child’s health, which is the prerequisite for brain development.
A healthy body allows children to continue developing their cognitive abilities without interruption. In cases where breastfeeding is insufficient, the nutrients obtained from formula milk play a vital role: supporting cognitive development during the early years of life.
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| Many factors contribute to a child’s intelligence (Image: Sheepskin) |
However, simply consuming milk containing nutrients beneficial for the brain does not guarantee that a child will be intelligent. In fact, intelligence is a broad concept that is not easily measurable. Gifts and talents are formed not only through nutrition but also depend on various other factors such as genetics, family educational practices, social influences, and living environments.
Maternal care, nurturing, and affection help children become more alert and intelligent compared to those who attend daycare or are cared for by strangers or relatives. This is the conclusion of the UK Child Care Association after studying 1,200 children aged 3 months to 51 months.
In reality, some children from families with “elite” genes and good education grow up to be ordinary individuals without any standout qualities. Conversely, there are children from “farmers'” backgrounds who, having inherited good genes and received a quality education, become exceptional later in life. In summary, many factors influence a child’s intelligence, making it difficult to determine which are primary and which are secondary. However, it can still be affirmed that good health is a solid foundation that facilitates children’s cognitive development in the future!
This is why in developed countries, when choosing milk, mothers prioritize essential nutrients that help children absorb well for better health rather than just focusing on nutrients that promote brain development.
Dr. Nguyễn Lân Đính
