PhD defence M.C. (Mireille) Schipper

Below is a brief summary of the dissertation:

A child’s health may already be influenced before pregnancy begins. The period from preconception through the first two years of life, known as the first 1,000 days, is important for growth and development. This thesis investigated how maternal and paternal nutrition and lifestyle during this period are associated with fertility, early development and the risk of overweight and obesity in childhood.

Using data from the Generation R Study, Generation R Next Study and the EndObesity Consortium, parental health and nutrition were studied from preconception onwards. Findings showed that parental BMI and diet were associated with fertility and early development. For example, a higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids in women was associated with improved fertility outcomes, while higher consumption of ultra-processed foods and a higher dietary glycemic index in men were associated with lower fertility. In women, a higher BMI and greater consumption of ultra-processed foods were associated with smaller embryonic growth.

Associations between parental lifestyle and child health were also observed later in childhood. A more favorable fatty acid profile in mothers during pregnancy was associated with a lower risk of obesity and a healthier metabolic profile in their children at school age. Unhealthy family-based lifestyle patterns around conception and pregnancy were associated with a higher risk of childhood obesity.

Together, these findings highlight the first 1,000 days as an important period in which opportunities exist to promote healthy growth and development. They also emphasize the importance of a family-based approach, involving both mothers and fathers in the prevention of childhood obesity.