[Effects of perinatal nutrition on developmental outcomes]

Abstract

The multifactorial nature of perinatal growth is now well established. The perinatal environment modulates each infant's genetic potential. Antenatal nutrition is dependent on maternal nutrition and is also subject to environmental factors such as tobacco smoke, which can significantly impact infant development. Current neonatal nutritional guidelines, aimed primarily at ensuring good nutrient tolerance, may no longer be optimal. Indeed, they can lead to malnutrition and growth retardation, and attempts to "catch up" through increased protein and calorie intake may have unwanted effects. Current data point to critical time windows during which nutritional optimization might improve infant development. New approches could help to prevent adult diseases of developmental origin.