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Early life nutrition and bone development in children
1Menzies Research Institute, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.
Nestle Nutrition Workshop Series. Paediatric Programme
|November 3, 2011
Summary
Early nutrition significantly impacts bone development and health throughout childhood. Optimal nutrient intake and avoiding smoking in early life are crucial for building strong bones and reducing fracture risk later on.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Nutrition Science
- Bone Biology
Background:
- Fetal and early life are critical periods for metabolic system development, particularly skeletal programming.
- Growing evidence links early life nutrition to childhood bone development and long-term bone health.
- Breastfeeding patterns and in utero diet influence bone mass accrual and fracture risk.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between early life factors and bone development in children.
- To examine the long-term effects of nutrition and environmental exposures on bone mass and fracture risk.
- To determine the optimal timing for osteoporosis prevention strategies.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of human cohort data examining early life nutrition and bone development.
- Longitudinal studies tracking bone mass and fracture risk from infancy through adolescence.
- Statistical analysis controlling for confounders and later environmental exposures.
Main Results:
- Breastfed infants show higher bone mass by age 8, particularly those born at term.
- In utero diet positively correlates with bone mass (ages 6-16) with nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein, while fat intake shows a negative association.
- Maternal smoking negatively impacts bone mineralization, though this effect diminishes over time.
- Both term and preterm infants exhibit different bone accrual trajectories, leading to higher bone mass and lower fracture risk by peak bone mass attainment.
Conclusions:
- Early life nutrition and environmental exposures significantly influence skeletal development and long-term bone health.
- Osteoporosis prevention should commence in fetal and early childhood stages.
- Targeted nutritional interventions and avoidance of smoking during pregnancy and early life are key for optimizing bone health across the lifespan.
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