What is Pediatric Nutrition?

Pediatric nutrition is a fundamental pillar for children's health, influencing growth, neurodevelopment, immune function, and the risk of long-term diseases. Proper nutrition during childhood reduces the likelihood of developing obesity, metabolic syndrome, and non-communicable diseases in adulthood.

The first 1,000 days of life, spanning from conception to two years of age, are a critical window during which nutrition can shape lifelong health. Therefore, understanding the importance of breastfeeding, complementary feeding, macronutrient balance, and dietary interventions in common pediatric conditions is essential.

Childhood Obesity and Metabolic Syndrome

Childhood obesity affects more than 20% of children in developed countries, with a growing prevalence even in early childhood. Key contributing factors include:

Excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods and sugary drinks.

Sedentary lifestyle, with screen time exceeding 2 hours per day.

Alterations in the gut microbiota, characterized by a reduction in beneficial bacteria (Bacteroidetes) and an increase in Firmicutes, which promotes calorie absorption and low-grade inflammation.

The Most Common Nutritional Disorders in Childhood

In conclusion, pediatric nutrition is a constantly evolving field that directly impacts growth, neurological development, and the prevention of chronic diseases. Early dietary patterns determine future health, making it essential to implement evidence-based nutritional strategies to optimize children's diets.

The development of personalized approaches in pediatrics, driven by research in microbiota, nutrigenomics, and metabolomics, represents the future of child nutrition. Collaboration among healthcare professionals, families, and public health policies will be key to ensuring all children receive optimal nutrition from the earliest years of life.