ABSTRACT
Antioxidant vitamins are important dietary components sourced from a diverse range of foods. Vitamins A, C, and E have important roles to play during the growth and development of the brain and nervous system during embryogenesis and fetal and postnatal periods. The antioxidant effects of these vitamins become particularly important during these periods of intense growth and development when there is an increased production of reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (ROS/RNS). These reactive species also have important physiological roles during the growth and development but can be problematic if their production is excessive and antioxidant defences are insufcient. This chapter will initially provide a brief overview of the metabolism and functions of the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E and will then consider their specic roles during the growth and development of the brain from conception through to childhood. The impact of deciency and interventions during critical periods will also be discussed in relation to cognitive function and development of motor skills.
