Malnutrition and cognitive development: evidence from experimental/quasi-experimental studies among the mild-to-moderately malnourished.

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the current literature on the relationship between malnutrition and cognitive development, with particular emphasis on data from experimental and quasi-experimental studies. The review provides a discussion of relevant issues of concern, including current knowledge regarding the specific outcomes affected by malnutrition, the significance of the timing of such insults, issues of differential responsivity, the role of specific nutrients, and the potential mechanisms. The implications of such findings for policy and directions for future research are discussed.