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Three Randomized Controlled Trials of Early Long-Chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Supplementation on Means-End Problem Solving in 9-Month-Olds |
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| Authors: | James Drover Dennis R Hoffman Yolanda S Castañeda Sarah E Morale Eileen E Birch |
| Institution: | Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas and Memorial University; Retina Foundation of the Southwest, Dallas; Retina Foundation of the Southwest and University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas |
| Abstract: | This study examines whether feeding infants formula supplemented with long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) improves cognitive function of 9-month-olds. Participants included 229 infants from 3 randomized controlled trials. Children received either formula supplemented with docosahexaenoic acid and arachidonic acid, or a control formula beginning at 1–5 days (12-month feeding study), or following 6 weeks (6-week-weaning study) or 4–6 months of breastfeeding (4-to 6-month weaning study). Infants were assessed with a 2-step problem solving task. In the 12-month feeding and 6-week weaning studies, supplemented children had more intentional solutions (successful task completions) and higher intention scores (goal-directed behaviors) than controls. These results suggest that LCPUFA supplementation improves means-end problem solving. |
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