If your child is having trouble paying attention in class, remembering instructions, or showing signs of poor academic performance, it's natural to wonder about a learning disorder. But suppose the real culprit is hiding in their lunchbox?

A shocking body of research now suggests that micronutrient deficiencies among children can hauntingly mimic the symptoms of cognitive delay, behavioral issues, and even learning disabilities. What may seem to be a developmental or neurological disorder may well be traced back to a far more preventable source: a lack of vital vitamins and minerals.

Hunger is not just about empty stomachs—it's about the lack of quality nutrients the body needs to function and grow. In the United States alone, more than 13 million children—about 18%—live in food-insecure households. That means almost one in five children who don't have regular access to nutritious meals.

In accordance with a number of studies, children who develop in food-insecure homes are likely to enter school behind. They are less likely to be developmentally prepared for kindergarten, and are likely to suffer from undiagnosed iron deficiency anemia—an problem research has determined to weaken memory and social functioning even a decade later.

Their performance at school declines with lower test scores on standardized tests, slower reading development, and more emotional and behavioral problems. The majority of these children receive inappropriate diagnoses of learning disabilities when, in fact, they are struggling due to nutrient deficiencies.

It's easy to get confused between the symptoms of micronutrient deficiency and learning or attention disorders. Children can appear sluggish, daydreamy, irritable, or lack interest in learning—symptoms most typically associated with ADHD, anxiety, or developmental delay.

A learning disorder is where the brain perceives information in a different manner, which holds a child back from learning or applying certain abilities effectively—yet they might be of average or above-average intelligence. This neurologic condition creates a noticeable deficit between the potential and existing academic performance of a child. Learning-disabled children may experience trouble with reading, writing, math, or attention, but the point is that these troubles are not linked with intelligence or effort. Early recognition and intervention are the most effective means of allowing children to acquire the skills required to be successful in school as well as everyday life.

But as Nutritionist Aman Puri says, it begins in the kitchen, "Good nutrition is the foundation for a child to grow and develop to his/her full potential. While motor and cognitive function begin unfolding during early childhood, deprivation of essential nutrients delays or impedes these natural milestones."

In particular, iron, zinc, iodine, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have actually been specifically implicated in cognitive dysfunctions, trouble remembering things, and low IQ levels. Even in certain cases, these deficiencies aren't visibly apparent until a great deal further down the line—when the academic or behavioral issues suddenly begin surfacing.

How Each Nutrient Affects Your Child's Brain?

Iron is needed to deliver oxygen to the brain. Deficiencies reduce red blood cell production and hemoglobin, impacting cognitive development directly.

Zinc is linked with attention span, problem-solving, and memory consolidation. Deficiencies can slow learning significantly.

Iodine is needed for early brain development. Iodine-deficient children have lower intelligence test scores and are at risk for goitre.

Vitamin B12 supports neurological function. Deficiency can retard motor skills and mimic ADHD and language processing disorder symptoms.

"Deficiencies may or may not initially present with any symptoms at all," says Puri. "But over time, they may influence brain growth so much so that it becomes easy to equate them with clinical learning disability."

The Problem With Modern Diet is More Than Junk Food

Even in households where food is abundant, nutrition can be lacking. Between processed foods, fast food, and sugary drinks, children are taking in calories—but not necessarily the essential nutrients they require. Throw in hectic parental schedules and a lack of nutritional knowledge, and the outcome is a recipe for malnourishment, even in middle-income households.

Malnutrition is the cause of nearly half of the deaths of all children under age five, and the World Health Organization (WHO) tells us so. And to those few who survive it, developmental lags and learning issues become the normal challenge to deal with.

Simple Steps for Smarter Nutrition Parents Can Follow

So what can be done? First, parents can take back control by providing a well-balanced, micronutrient-dense diet. Puri recommends introducing fortified foods and natural sources of essential nutrients early on—namely, the first five years of life when the brain grows most rapidly.

Nutrients to include:

Iron: Leafy greens, legumes, eggs, lean meats

Zinc: In milk products, seeds, and whole grains

Iodine: From iodized salt, seaweed, and milk

Vitamin B12: Found in fish, eggs, milk, and fortified cereals

Folate, calcium, vitamins A, D, and E: Best found on a plate of rainbow hues

"Nutrition education strategies must begin with maternal and child health programs," says Puri. "Mothers must be educated on the long-term consequences of micronutrient deficiencies and the benefits of early dietary intervention."

Before rushing to label your child with a learning disorder, take a closer look at their plate. The brain, like any other organ, responds well to optimal fuel. And occasionally, the solution to deficient focus, mood swings, or learning lags is as elementary—and as life-changing—as an upgrade in nutritional quality.

Aman Puri is a Nutritionist and Founder, Steadfast Nutrition with an expertise as a Sleep Science Coach and in Sports Psychology.

Every parent waits eagerly for the day their child takes those wobbly first steps. For many, it's more than just a motor milestone—it’s symbolic of growth, independence, and progress. While the typical age range for walking spans from 8 to 24 months, the reason why some children walk earlier than others has remained an enigma—until now.

New research from a team of scientists across the University of Surrey and the University of Essex, published in Nature Human Behaviour, reveals that genetics may be a key player in determining when babies begin to walk. The study, one of the largest of its kind, analyzed genetic data from over 70,000 infants and found that nearly a quarter of the variation in the age at which children begin to walk can be explained by their DNA.

The onset of walking, termed Age of Onset of Walking (AOW) is widely recognized as a clinical marker for brain and behavioral development. Researchers conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) that examined the DNA of infants from four major European-ancestry cohorts, including the United Kingdom Medical Research Council, the Netherlands Twin Register, and the Norwegian MoBa cohort.

What they uncovered was striking- 2,525 significant genetic variants were associated with AOW, of which 11 loci remained statistically robust. Among these, certain genes were found to be strongly expressed in the brain, particularly in areas responsible for motor control like the cortex, cerebellum, and basal ganglia.

Further analysis revealed that walking later but still within the typical developmental window—was genetically linked to higher cognitive performance and reduced risk for ADHD. This suggests that a child who walks later might actually be developing brain functions that support focus and learning.

Why Walking is More a Brain Activity than Muscle?

The act of walking involves a complex interplay between muscles, balance, sensory feedback, and brain coordination. The study showed that many of the genes related to delayed walking were also enriched in processes involving neuron generation and neurogenesis—the very building blocks of brain function.

Interestingly, the researchers also identified overlaps between walking onset genes and those associated with autism, intellectual disability, and educational attainment. This does not mean that walking later is a cause for concern; rather, it highlights how intertwined motor milestones are with broader neurological development.

Moreover, the polygenic scores—an estimate of genetic predisposition—were found to correlate with brain volume and cortical folding patterns in neonatal MRI scans. This reinforces the notion that motor development may reflect deeper, genetically driven processes within the brain.

Is Late Walking a Warning Sign?

While delayed walking can sometimes point to developmental disorders, most late walkers fall within the wide spectrum of normal development. According to Professor Angelica Ronald, a senior researcher on the study, “Only a minority of late walkers have underlying neurological abnormalities. In most cases, the timing is just one part of the child’s individual developmental rhythm.”

Still, the 18-month mark remains an important pediatric checkpoint. Children who haven’t begun walking independently by then may benefit from a medical evaluation to rule out conditions like cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, or developmental coordination disorder.

Although genetics play a significant role, they are only one part of the story. Environmental influences—such as nutrition, gestational age, opportunity to practice movement, and cultural norms—also shape when a child learns to walk. For instance, children in cultures that emphasize early motor training often walk sooner, regardless of genetic predispositions.

Moreover, the researchers noted that their findings, while robust, were limited to populations of European ancestry. Future studies including diverse populations will help uncover whether these genetic markers are universally applicable or ethnicity-specific.

This study provides more than just a scientific breakthrough—it offers reassurance. Your baby’s timeline isn’t a race, and walking “late” might simply reflect a different kind of neurological development in progress.

Recognizing Baby Walking Styles

Babies have their own unique walking styles, and many are completely normal as their muscles and bones develop:

The Toddle: A wide-legged, deliberate style that becomes smoother over time.

The Cowboy: Bow-legged with knees apart and ankles together—a temporary phase.

The Duck: “Out-toeing” or “in-toeing” where toes point outward or inward; usually resolves with growth.

Toe Walking: Walking on tiptoes, common in early stages of walking.

Tips to Encourage Your Baby to Walk

Alongside a baby’s first smile and first word, those very first steps are a big deal. For many parents, it's an eagerly awaited milestone—camera in hand, ready to capture the magic. But behind those few wobbly steps lies months of motor development: sitting, rolling, crawling, and standing. And as this moment approaches, it’s natural to wonder—are they walking differently than other kids? Is there a way to help them along?

Here are six practical and parent-approved tips to gently support and encourage your baby’s walking journey:

1. Let Them Go Barefoot

While baby shoes are adorable, barefoot is best during those initial walking phases. Walking is a complex task, requiring your baby’s bones, tendons, and muscles to adjust and work in sync. Bare feet help your child better sense their footing and improve balance—crucial in building confidence and coordination.

2. Use Toys as Motivation

Encouragement can come in the form of fun! Hold out a toy—or even the irresistible TV remote—just out of reach to motivate your baby to take a few steps. Position yourself strategically and cheer them on as they inch closer.

3. Create a Furniture Path

Turn your living room into a mini obstacle course by placing pieces of furniture close together. This gives your little one a safe way to “cruise” from one surface to another. As they gain confidence, increase the gap between objects to gradually build strength and independence.

4. Check the Flooring

Slippery surfaces can make walking harder. Avoid glossy tiles or slick laminates early on. Opt instead for carpeted areas or lay down rugs and yoga mats for better grip and safety while they’re learning.

5. Pick the Right Push Walker

Choose a push-along walker like a trolley with blocks inside, instead of a sit-in, wheeled version. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has recommended banning sit-in baby walkers due to safety concerns. Push-along types support forward movement while helping babies develop stability and control.

6. Steady and Encourage Them Emotionally

Support matters. Position your baby against a stable surface and sit opposite them. Gently encourage them to move forward. Keep the mood upbeat with claps, songs, and smiles. Remember, babies mirror emotions—your confidence and joy fuel theirs. A tumble or two is normal—what matters is consistent encouragement.

When to Talk to Your Pediatrician?

Not all differences are concerning, but you should consult a doctor if you notice:

Asymmetry: One foot dragging, or one side moving differently than the other.

Frequent Falls: Some tripping is normal, but consistent stumbles could signal an issue.

Signs of Pain: Limping or discomfort while walking shouldn’t be ignored.

So the next time you're asked, “Is your baby walking yet?”, you can confidently say, “Not yet—and that's perfectly fine. It’s in their DNA.”

Walking is not just a physical milestone—it’s a reflection of both genetics and neurodevelopment. With nearly 25% of walking-age variability explained by genetic factors, science is now rewriting the way we understand infant development, one step at a time.

While parents often claim they do not have a favorite child, sometimes their favor is evident. Sometimes it is the kid they depend on the most, other times it is the youngest kid of the family. However, is there a specific factor parents enjoy more in their kids? After analyzing factors like age, gender and behavioral pattern, researchers found what parents favored the most in their children

In a 2025 study published by the Psychological Bulletin, researchers found that parents favor daughters. They are more likely to be the favorite, across both mothers and fathers. Firstborn children also often receive more positive attention. Additionally, children who are described as conscientious – meaning they are responsible, organized, and do what they're supposed to – are also frequently favored. These findings suggest that certain personality traits and birth order can influence how parents interact with their children, even if unintentionally.

How Did They Find Parents Favored Certain Kids

Researchers looked at the results of many different studies. They combined the findings from over two dozen research papers, including articles, school projects, and large collections of data. This allowed them to see broader patterns in how parents treat their children differently. By looking at things like how much affection parents show and how they share resources, the researchers could draw more reliable conclusions than if they had just looked at one single study. This big picture approach helps us understand the common trends in parental favoritism.

Why Did The Parents Favor These Traits

Older Siblings

Parents tend to grant older children more freedom and decision-making power, likely due to perceiving them as more mature and responsible based on their age and experience. Having navigated earlier developmental stages, they've often earned more trust, leading parents to offer greater independence compared to their younger siblings who are still learning and growing.

Daughters

Social norms and potential emotional closeness might contribute to daughters being favored. Parents may have different communication styles or expectations, possibly leading to a stronger perceived bond. While conscientiousness and agreeableness play a role overall, a general inclination towards daughters could also stem from subtle societal influences on parental perceptions and interactions.

Conscientious and Agreeable Children

Children who are responsible, organized, cooperative, and kind often experience more positive parental interactions. Their agreeable nature leads to less conflict, creating smoother relationships. These traits can make parenting easier, resulting in more praise, trust, and overall favored treatment compared to siblings who may exhibit more challenging behaviors.

Avoiding Shows Of Favoritism For Kid’s Well-Being

When children feel like they are not the favorite, it can have a real impact on their well-being. It's not just about feeling a little sad; it can affect their mental health, their relationships with others, and even how well they do in school. To make sure all their children feel equally loved and valued, parents can try a few practical things.

It's helpful for parents to regularly think about how they interact with each child. Showing interest in each child's unique hobbies and asking them open-ended questions about what's important to them can make a big difference.

Spending dedicated one-on-one time with each child and avoiding comparisons between them are also key. Encouraging a positive relationship between siblings and openly talking about everyone's needs can create a more supportive and equitable family environment.

Trying to conceive in your 30s can feel like a race against time, but what if the secret to increasing your fertility was as easy as taking a walk outside for some sunlight? Yes, you heard that right! New studies indicate moderate sun exposure to have a crucial role in maintaining ovarian health and fertility, particularly for women past the age of 30. The quest for fertility and reproductive well-being assumes greater importance with advancing age for women, more so after passing the 30s. That biological functions change with age for women is not a secret, and with this comes the dip in fertility as well but what if something as easy as sunlight could improve those chances? Research indicates that moderate sunlight exposure may play a big role in ovarian health and fertility, particularly in women aged over 30.

We've known for years that sunlight improves our mood and mental health. Natural serotonin production while being exposed to sunlight is well-documented, but new studies are now connecting sunlight exposure with better fertility rates, especially among women aged over 30.

A study appearing in Steroids, authored by scientists at Tel Aviv University and the Sheba Medical Center, reveals how solar radiation exposure may impact fertility. The study, in particular, examined how sun exposure influenced the level of Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH) in women. AMH is an important marker of ovarian reserve—the amount of eggs a woman possesses in her ovaries, which determines her fertility potential.

The scientists followed 2,235 women aged 20 to 40 and discovered an interesting trend: women aged 30 to 40 who were exposed to moderate amounts of sunlight in spring and autumn had more AMH compared to those exposed to little sunlight in winter months. Surprisingly, those who were exposed to more solar radiation in summer had greater levels of AMH than those in the winter. Although the study does not create a direct cause-and-effect relationship, it does imply that moderate sun exposure can be good for ovarian reserve and therefore fertility.

Role of Vitamin D in Fertility

Vitamin D, or the "sunshine vitamin," is manufactured by our skin after exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D has been found to be very important for fertility, especially for women who are attempting to get pregnant. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to unfavorable fertility outcomes, such as lower IVF success rates and an increased risk of pregnancy complications.

For women attempting conception without medical aid, having optimal levels of vitamin D can maximize the possibility of conception. A number of studies establish that women with higher levels of vitamin D are likely to have better rates of implantation of the embryo and better success when undergoing IVF treatment. The relationship between vitamin D and fertility highlights the need to maximize exposure to sunlight or take supplements, especially for those attempting conception.

How Much Sun is Too Much?

While moderate sun exposure will improve fertility by increasing vitamin D levels and AMH levels, it's necessary to counterbalance this with the danger of too much sun. Long-term exposure to strong sunlight can cause sun damage, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risk. So, it's worth striving for safe, moderate sun exposure—usually, about 10 to 30 minutes a few times a week, depending on the type of your skin and sun intensity.

It's essential to pay attention to your body and not expose yourself to the sun during the strongest hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Applying sunscreen to longer exposures and dressing in protective clothing is worth considering to avoid long-term damage to your skin.

Fertility-Enhancing Lifestyle Changes for Women Age 30 and Above

Sunlight exposure is only half the solution when it comes to enhancing fertility among women aged 30 and above. Embracing a healthy lifestyle can also contribute in a notable way to enhancing reproductive health. These are some of the most important lifestyle changes that can enhance fertility:

1. Eat a Balanced Diet

A healthy diet high in antioxidants, healthy fats, and whole foods may also contribute to improving fertility. Foods that are rich in nutrients such as folic acid, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids play a critical role in maintaining reproductive health. Especially, consuming fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can normalize hormones and make conception more likely.

2. Exercise Regularly, But Don't Overdo It

Physical exercise is essential for general health and fertility. Regular, moderate exercise—like walking, swimming, or yoga—can help normalize hormones, enhance blood flow, and alleviate stress. Excessive exercise, on the other hand, can have the opposite effect and harm fertility. Women who overexert themselves or have extremely low body weight can suffer from menstrual irregularities, which can prevent ovulation.

3. Stress Management

Chronic stress is a proven fertility killer, as it can cause hormonal imbalance and affect ovulation. Adding stress-reduction methods like yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises can help balance your body. Also, talking to a counselor or therapist can be helpful in resolving emotional and psychological stress that could be impacting your fertility.

4. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is necessary for hormone balance and overall health. Lack of sleep can raise cortisol levels and interfere with your reproductive hormones. Get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to aid your fertility and overall health.

Although no one factor can promise fertility, sunlight exposure may be a natural and inexpensive means of aiding reproductive health. Along with a healthy diet, exercise on a regular basis, and stress management techniques, you can really boost your chances of conception, particularly if you're in your 30s. Fertility is a multifaceted process, and it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider when changing your lifestyle or embarking on a family planning adventure.

Moderate sunlight exposure not only does your mood and mental health good but also has an unsuspected but possibly vital role to play in enhancing ovarian health and fertility beyond the age of 30.