Speech development is a complex neurological process that depends on the right nutrients to support brain function, neural connections, and neurotransmitter production. Ensuring optimal nutrition during critical developmental stages can support the development of speech and language skills, cognitive function, and overall brain health. It’s important to pay attention to how well nutrients are digested and absorbed too as this can affect nutrient levels. Conditions such as reflux, colic, early-life illnesses, feeding difficulties, and maternal nutrient levels during pregnancy can impact a child’s nutrient levels.
One of the most important nutrients for speech and language development is omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA. These long-chain fatty acids support myelination, brain plasticity, and neuronal signaling, all of which are needed for language processing. EPA and DHA are primarily found in fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel. DHA is also available from algae oil. While plant-based sources like chia seeds, flaxseeds, and walnuts contain ALA (alpha-linolenic acid), the body must convert ALA into EPA and DHA, a process that can be inefficient in many people. Genetic variations, nutrient deficiencies, and overall metabolic health can affect how well someone can convert ALA into the usable forms of omega-3s, making direct dietary intake of EPA and DHA more effective.
Choline is necessary for acetylcholine production, this is a neurotransmitter involved in memory, learning, language and speech development. Choline rich foods like eggs, liver, and soybeans support cognitive and speech functions. Since choline plays a role in early brain development, a mother’s intake during pregnancy and lactation directly impacts the baby’s cognitive and speech development.
B6, B9 (folate), and B12 are essential for cognitive processing. Deficiencies in these vitamins can contribute to developmental delays, including speech difficulties. Low maternal B12 levels during pregnancy, can result in low stores in infants, which could impact neurological development. Undiagnosed pernicious anaemia in the mother during pregnancy could have an adverse effect. Additionally, infants who experienced illnesses shortly after birth or received antibiotics may have compromised gut health, which can affect B-vitamin absorption.
Iron is essential for oxygen transport in the brain and dopamine function, both of which influence speech, language and cognitive skills. Low iron levels are associated with speech delays, particularly in infants who had low birth weight, feeding difficulties, or recurrent infections. Iron absorption can be compromised in children with reflux, gut inflammation, or frequent infections. Babies born to mothers with low iron during pregnancy may also start life with lower stores, making iron-rich foods such as red meat, lentils, and spinach particularly important.
Zinc supports synaptic plasticity and neurotransmitter function, playing a role in cognitive speed and language skills. However, frequent infections, gut issues, and excessive dairy intake can reduce zinc absorption. Zinc-rich foods such as shellfish, beef, and pumpkin seeds can help support adequate levels. Magnesium also plays a critical role in neural regulation and cognitive function, but absorption and lossess can be affected by stress, antibiotic use, and digestive issues like reflux or constipation.
Iodine is another essential nutrient, necessary for thyroid function and brain development. If a mother has low iodine levels during pregnancy, the baby is at a greater risk of cognitive and speech delays. In some areas the addition of fluoride to the water supply can affect iodine levels as fluoride compoetes with iodine for uptake.
Vitamin D also contributes to brain growth and development, but deficiency is common, particularly in infants with limited sun exposure or those born in winter months or to mother’s with low levels.
Finally, antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols protect the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation. Infants who experience frequent infections, gut dysbiosis, or early exposure to antibiotics may have increased oxidative stress, which can impact cognitive development.
Absorption issues, feeding difficulties, early-life illnesses, and maternal nutrient levels all play a significant role in how well a child receives the nutrients needed for speech development. Addressing gut health, supporting digestion, and ensuring optimal maternal nutrition during pregnancy can make a significant difference. If your child has experienced reflux, colic, or feeding challenges, working with a nutritionist to identify potential deficiencies, optimise nutrient intake and absorption could be beneficial.
