EFFECTS OF NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCIES
If the 6 vital nutrients are not received by the fetus within the critical period, there can be detrimental effects on their brain development. The reason that a fetus may not receive these nutrients may be because the mother has a deficiency of that particular nutrient or nutrients. This is why it is imperative that the mother makes sure she is obtaining the proper amount of nutrients, so she will be able to properly support her child. Detrimental effects of nutrient deficiencies can be observed most clearly in iodine, vitamin D, and iron.
Iodine Deficiencies
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Mental illnesses, deafness, "spasms of the arms and legs" (Cheatham 22).
Cognitive issues
Lower IQ in infants
Iron Deficiencies
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Prevent proper brain development and functioning in infants​
Poor memory and recognition skills
Vitamin D Deficiencies
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Mental disorders, such as schizophrenia.
"More susceptible to viruses" (Cheatham 23).
It is important to note
Genes can greatly effect if a mother will have a deficiency in one or more of these nutrients. For instance, diabetic mothers are more prone to be iron deficient than non diabetic mothers. Thus, genes also effect how a child will receive their required nutrients.