Good nutrition in the first 1000 days of life
The first 1000 days of life, are from pregnancy to when your child turns age two. It is a critical period for brain development and bodybuilding. During this time, the brain and body are rapidly developing, and good nutrition is essential for optimal health.
Why is good nutrition so important during the first 1000 days of life?
- Brain development: The brain is developing rapidly during the first 1000 days of life. Good nutrition is essential for this development, and deficiencies in key nutrients can lead to learning problems, behavioral problems, and other long-term health problems which are permanent.
- Physical growth: Children also grow rapidly during the first 1000 days of life. Good nutrition is essential for this growth, and deficiencies in key nutrients can lead to stunting and other long-term health problems.
- Immune system development: The immune system is also developing rapidly during the first 1000 days of life. Good nutrition is essential for this development, and deficiencies in key nutrients can lead to increased susceptibility to infections.
What nutrients are important during the first 1000 days of life?
All nutrients are important during the first 1000 days of life, but some are particularly important for brain development, physical growth, and immune system development. These nutrients include: - Protein: Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, including the brain and muscles.
- Iron: Iron is essential for carrying oxygen throughout the body.
- Zinc: Zinc is essential for cell growth and development, as well as immune function.
- Iodine: Iodine is essential for thyroid function, which is important for brain development and growth.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for brain development and eye development.
- Choline: Choline is essential for brain development and cognitive function.
- Folate: Folate is essential for preventing birth defects and promoting healthy growth and development.
- Vitamin D: Vitamin D is essential for bone health and immune function.
How to ensure good nutrition during the first 1000 days of life.
- The best way to ensure good nutrition during the first 1000 days of life is to eat a healthy diet and take prenatal vitamins during pregnancy.
- Exclusive Breastfeeding is also the best way to feed a baby during the first six months of life.
- At 6 months start feeding the baby other foods and water while continuing breastfeeding. It is important to provide them with a variety of healthy foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, animal-source foods, seeds and legumes, and healthy fats. It is also important to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and saturated and unhealthy fats.
- Add KOKO Plus® to foods for children aged 6 months and above. Use one sachet a day per child to support the child’s daily nutritional needs for brain development and bodybuilding.
If you have any concerns about your child’s nutrition, talk to your healthcare provider(doctor or nurse) They can help you create a healthy eating plan for your child and ensure that they are getting all of the nutrients they need.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your child gets the good nutrition they need for optimal health and development during the first 1000 days of life.