The time period from conception to the second year after birth is considered the most critical in terms of optimal infant development. According to the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), the first 1000 days represent a time of nutritional and metabolic programming. During this period, body weight typically doubles over the first four months and triples over twelve months. Nutrition during the first 1000 days of life has a key role in the programing of future health, being of special importance for neurodevelopment, growth patterns, and the establishment of gut microbiota.
From 6 months of life onwards, exclusive breastfeeding or formula-feeding no longer covers infant’s energy and nutrient requirements; therefore, the introduction of solid food is strongly recommended. The composition of the complementary diet is likely to affect child’s future health. The energy intake will be increased by the introduction of cereals, which constitute the main energy source in the form of complex carbohydrates; this will affect growth and functional development of the central nervous system, and promote gut development. Fruits and vegetables are introduced after cereals and represent an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. An excess of dietary fibers should be avoided because they can interfere with the absorption of micronutrients such as iron or zinc, leading to a deficit that may be detrimental to neurodevelopment. The gradual addition of meat, egg, and fish will help to cover protein needs and to ensure a proper infant neurodevelopment and growth.
An adequate diet during the first year of life with an appropriate supply of polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates, and micronutrients such as iron and vitamins are necessary for an optimal infant growth, neurodevelopment, and the correct establishment, maturation, and functionality of the gut microbiota to avoid long-lasting consequences. Some of the import nutrients during the first year of life are detailed below.
• Iron During the first 6 months of life, infants use iron liver reserves build up during fetal life, as the iron content of breast milk is very low. Thus, at around 6 months, an exogenous source of iron from the diet is needed to meet the nutritional requirements. From 0 to 6 months of …
• Fats Fatty acids are the major constituent of many lipids, and those which are essential must be provided through the infant diet for a healthy growth, neurodevelopment, immune system, and gastrointestinal function. During the first months of life, especially polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFAs) requirements are increased, because of rapid growth and neurological development. Fat …
