First 1,000 Days of Life Have a Direct Impact on Health: A Mexican Strategy

Abstract

Chronic non-communicable degenerative diseases are the leading cause of mortality, morbidity, and disability in Mexico and worldwide, negatively impacting national economies by consuming health and social resources. These diseases include hypertension, obesity, and cardiovascular diseases resulting from inadequate dietary conditions and current lifestyles. It is undeniable that nutrition and healthy habits are prerequisites for a healthy life. However, the significance of nutrition and health habits is amplified during the initial 1,000 days of life, when an individual is unable to select their food or environment. This is due to the fact that this is a period of organ and system development, when the body is particularly vulnerable to inadequate nutrition and a toxic environment, especially during pregnancy. The present review has two objectives. First, it aims to describe the importance of maintaining a healthy, balanced diet from conception through the first two years of life. Second, it will explore current Mexican nutritional recommendations, public strategies, and innovations to improve in each stage of development. This review will also help formulate targeted health strategies for this population, fostering the comprehensive approach essential for establishing lifelong healthy habits with long-term benefits for children, adolescents, and adults.