Reduced Maternal Vitamin Level is Associated with Hyperactivity in Children

By CP Staff

A recently published study examined the association between levels of a particular vitamin in pregnant women and the risk of their children developing behavioral problems and hyperactivity. The diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been increasing at the rate of approximately 3 percent per year between 1997 and 2006, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Currently, an estimated 4.5 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with ADHD.

In this new study, researchers investigated the role that maternal folic acid levels in the blood play in the development of hyperactivity in the children. The pregnant women were evaluated for red blood cell folate levels at 14 weeks of pregnancy. The women were also assessed for total folic acid intake in early and late pregnancy. At delivery and during infancy, the infants were evaluated for head circumference and body weight. After approximately 9 years, the mothers completed questionnaires regarding behavioral problems and hyperactivity in the children.

The results showed that lower red blood cell folate levels and total folic acid intake in early pregnancy were associated with an increased risk of the children developing hyperactivity and peer-related behavioral problems. The study also showed that increased levels of maternal red blood cell folic acid were associated with increased head circumference at birth.

The study authors concluded, “Although the associations are small and residual, confounding is possible, our data provide preliminary support for the hypothesis that lower folate status in early pregnancy might impair fetal brain development and affect hyperactivity/inattention and peer problems in childhood.”

Reference:

Schlotz W, Jones A, Phillips DI, Gale CR, Robinson SM, Godfrey KM. Lower maternal folate status in early pregnancy is associated with childhood hyperactivity and peer problems in offspring. J Child Psychol Psychiatry. 2010 May;51(5):594-602.