Interest in cognitive health has been growing over the years, and much research has been done from how to ensure optimal cognitive development since conception to ways to prevent cognitive decline in the later years. Although many factors may influence cognitive functions, there has been much focus on the role of nutrition on cognition. This has been demonstrated through the many nutrients and functional ingredients being regarded as ‘brain foods’. Nutrition in early life is crucial for cognitive development and may substantially influence cognitive performance later in life. Increased longevity in many societies leading to larger elderly populations has also driven the demand and development of products that can maintain cognitive performance and prevent cognitive degeneration.

To better understand and substantiate the benefits of nutrients and food components for cognition, the availability of appropriate assessments of cognitive functions for different age groups that are able to detect the nutritional influences is of importance to all stakeholders. These evidence-based benefits in turn need to be properly understood by the consumers. This 2 1/2-day symposium will be one of the first in Southeast Asia region to address the important issue of nutrition and cognition. The opening plenary, symposium presentations, panel discussion and poster and exhibit sessions will bring the latest research and application on nutrition and cognition for different life stages.

Date and Time:
October 19-21, 2010

Venue:
Renaissance Hotel, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Organizers:
ILSI SEA Region

Nutrition Society of Malaysia

Collaborator:
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation

Objectives:  

 -  Share the state-of-the-art knowledge on the relationship between nutrition and cognition

 -  Highlight current methodologies in assessing cognitive functions, and explore their applicability for different population groups and life stages

 -  Discuss issues relating to scientific substantiation of cognition related claims

 -  Consider consumer understanding of nutritional influences on cognition

 -  Provide forum to initiate discussion, advance understanding, spur research and inspire applications, with specific focus on Asian populations

For more details and latest update, please visit the Symposium on Nutrition and Cognition webpage