Certain nutrients—including folate, choline, methionine, betaine, and vitamins B6 and B12—play a major role in how the brain develops and functions.
These nutrients help the body make SAM, a molecule that adds chemical “tags” to DNA and proteins.
These tags help control how genes work, especially in brain cells.
During pregnancy, infancy, and adolescence, the brain is very sensitive to changes in these nutrients. Insufficient intake can affect how brain cells grow, how stress systems develop, and how the brain controls mood, memory, and metabolism.
Studies in both animals and humans show that low levels of these nutrients can alter learning, behavior, the stress response, and even appetite regulation. These changes often happen because the brain’s typical patterns of gene activity are shifted.
On the other hand, getting enough of these nutrients—especially during early development—can support healthier brain growth, better stress control, and more stable behavior and mood.
This means that good nutrition is essential not only for physical health but also for mental and emotional well-being.
Having adequate folate, B12, choline, and other methyl-donor nutrients may lower the risk of mood problems, memory issues, and metabolic imbalances.
This highlights the value of paying attention to diet quality during pregnancy, childhood, and throughout life.
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