Nutritional needs during the first 1000 days to support growth during infancy and toddlerhood: the influence of maternal health

The 1st 1000 days of life is important as it is a window of opportunity for maternal and infant nutrition to influence proper growth and development. Maternal and infant risk factors both are associated with development of obesity and adverse health outcomes in the child. High birth weight and high protein intake in the first year of has been shown to predispose to higher of obesity in childhood. After the 1st year, the feeding practices, environmental factors and the BMI of the child may further influence the development of non-communicable diseases later in life. Obesity in the child is multifactorial hence prevention through proper nutrition and maintenance of appropriate growth trajectories are crucial.