First 1000 Days

In this golden period scientists quoted in the article said that at least 50 brain chemicals or neurotransmitters are affected by the intake of food and micronutrients and “the impact of nutrition (at this time) is lasting and irreversible, with effects beyond physical health to affect the child’s cognitive development.” The report followed decades of research undertaken by David Barker and colleagues at Southampton University.

Salt and sugar are the main villains, found extensively in processed foods and take aways. Overfeeding is also problematic, having a treat every day is not necessary and putting a Freddo Frog, or a mini Mars Bar in the lunch box encourages sugar addiction, overeating and possible obesity.