An Offspring’s Health Starts Before Conception and Results of the NiPPeR Randomized Trial

There is wide consensus that early life events can shape future health and wellbeing. It is hypothesized that the earlier the exposure to a particular environmental factor, the greater the impact on future outcome; small changes in early life can lead to the emergence of significant consequences later, with epigenetic mechanisms thought to play a key role. A new life begins at conception when sperm fertilizes the oocyte. This initial environment within which this new life is formed is determined by both maternal and paternal lifestyle prior to pregnancy in addition to genetic makeup. These could influence pregnancy events and have consequences on the offspring health, including the risk of developing non-communicable diseases and mental health issues.