Infant nutrition – diet between 6 and 24 months, implications for paediatric growth, overweight and obesity

Abstract

Infants are growing rapidly from 6-24 months and have high nutrient needs in proportion to their body size. This sub-group of the population are prone to dietary imbalances and inadequacies. It is of vital importance to get nutrition right during this time period to support appropriate growth and development.Overweight and obesity rates are increasing in pre-school children, and maternal nutritional status and early life feeding have been identified as 'critical windows' for obesity risk. After the recommended period of exclusive breastfeeding, an increasingly diversified selection of foods are offered to infants and young children, and milk becomes less dominant in the diet.Rapid weight gain during infancy is the strongest risk factor for childhood overweight and obesity, and this may be modifiable with early intervention. During the complementary feeding period, there is an increase in protein intake, which is in excess of requirements, and may be associated with adverse outcomes regarding later body mass index and body fatness. Guidelines for healthcare professionals have been developed to raise the issue of overfeeding during infancy, and to manage overweight if it arises.Dietary intake measures show a deteriorating quality of diet as infants move from the first 12 months of life into the second year, with potential excesses of protein, energy, saturated fatty acids, salt and non-milk extrinsic sugars. Formula manufacturers can reduce the protein content of formulas for infants and young children in order to support appropriate growth, whilst supplements, fortified foods and milks can supply 'at risk' micronutrients.

Calcium to phosphorus ratio, essential elements and vitamin D content of infant foods in the UK: Possible implications for bone health

“…Therefore, it is important for parents to select breakfast and snack options that are nutritionally adequate for the infant's diet and to not exceed recommendations when added to the infant's diet. More attention needs to be focused upon infant snacks as national surveys have shown that snacking increases with age and that a higher percentage of 12‐ to 18‐month‐olds snack on ‘sugar preserves and confectionary’ (63%) compared with ‘savory snacks’ (43%), and there is currently limited data available in relation to their nutritional suitability (Hardwick & Sidnell, ).…”

Nutrition in the early years – laying the foundations for healthy eating

“…Breastfeeding may confer protective effects against obesity (discussed by Hardwick & Sidnell 2014) through a number of different mechanisms, including self-regulation of energy intake and appetite entrainment. Breastfeeding also promotes acceptance of new foods such as vegetables (discussed by Venter & Harris 2009).…”

Effect of co-fermentation on the chemical composition and sensory properties of maize and soybean complementary flours

“…Most complementary foods used in low-income households are starchy porridges traditionally prepared from locally available cereals (Abeshu, Lelisa, & Geleta, 2016). Such complementary foods are often characterized by low nutrient densities, poor protein quality, high bulk, low mineral bioavailability and low energy (Hardwick & Sidnell, 2014). This contributes to the high prevalence of under nutrition among children, especially in developing countries (Abeshu et al, 2016).…”

“…The effects of poor nutrition on growth and development are very pronounced at this stage, as breast milk alone becomes inadequate to meet the nutritional requirements of infants as from six months (Hardwick & Sidnell, 2014;World Health Organization, 2001). Nutritional deficits acquired during this period are difficult to compensate for later in childhood (World Health Organization, 2001).…”

“…During the period of complementary feeding, the foundations for optimal health, growth and development of children are built (Hardwick & Sidnell, 2014). The effects of poor nutrition on growth and development are very pronounced at this stage, as breast milk alone becomes inadequate to meet the nutritional requirements of infants as from six months (Hardwick & Sidnell, 2014;World Health Organization, 2001).…”