Nutrition in the First 1000 Days: The Origin of Childhood Obesity

Chiara Mameli, Sara Mazzantini and Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti
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Chiara Mameli: Department of Pediatrics, V. Buzzi Hospital, University of Milan, Milan 20154, Italy
Sara Mazzantini: Department of Pediatrics, V. Buzzi Hospital, University of Milan, Milan 20154, Italy
Gian Vincenzo Zuccotti: Department of Pediatrics, V. Buzzi Hospital, University of Milan, Milan 20154, Italy

IJERPH, 2016, vol. 13, issue 9, 1-9

Abstract: Childhood obesity is a major global issue. Its incidence is constantly increasing, thereby offering a threatening public health perspective. The risk of developing the numerous chronic diseases associated with this condition from very early in life is significant. Although complex and multi-factorial, the pathophysiology of obesity recognizes essential roles of nutritional and metabolic aspects. Particularly, several risk factors identified as possible determinants of later-life obesity act within the first 1000 days of life (i.e., from conception to age 2 years). The purpose of this manuscript is to review those key mechanisms for which a role in predisposing children to obesity is supported by the most recent literature. Throughout the development of the human feeding environment, three different stages have been identified: (1) the prenatal period; (2) breast vs. formula feeding; and (3) complementary diet. A deep understanding of the specific nutritional challenges presented within each phase might foster the development of future preventive strategies.

Keywords: obesity; overweight; child nutrition; diet; breast feeding (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2016
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (9)

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