Healthy eating for life: start young

Epidemiological evidence has demonstrated how nutritional programming in fetal life and the benefits gained through breastfeeding can affect adult health.¹

The age at which solid foods are introduced and how preschool children are fed can influence their food preferences, weight and health in later life. The type of food offered and the eating environment can influence the child's likes, dislikes and relationship with food.²

This article looks at the importance of early eating habits, from weaning onwards, and how these may affect later adult health outcomes, as well as child health.

Weaning
It is important that primary care nurses are familiar with weaning guidelines and refer to them when advising parents.