Diet Coding – Its Significance and Methods for Proper Implementation

Nutritional molding is a process that impacts metabolism and occurs during the prenatal stage and early childhood (the so-called critical period). It is a time when the child undergoes intense development – then organs and tissues mature, and the infant is particularly susceptible to nutrient deficiencies. Inadequate amounts or an excess of a specific component can determine the future functioning of the body. The risk of diseases that have developed during this period is difficult to reduce later, so early molding of nutrition is considered one of the most important elements of prevention for diseases of civilization. Proper molding of nutrition can contribute to a decrease in the risk of diseases of the circulatory system, obesity, cancer, or diabetes, as well as to the proper development of the nervous and skeletal systems.

Already in the early 1980s, researchers identified a link between maternal malnutrition and low birth weight insulin phenotypes and a later-occurring epidemic of cardiovascular disease (D. J. Barker et al. 1989). Numerous theories have been developed regarding the programming of nutritional deficiencies and the development of diseases in adulthood. The theory developed by Barker posits that maternal undernutrition may have an impact on disorders in the functioning of pancreatic, renal, and cardiac cells. The fetus adapts to unfavorable conditions, allowing the brain to grow at the expense of other organs, which can lead to disorders of glucose tolerance and the development of hypertension in later life.

Proper nutrition during pregnancy has a significant impact on the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. It is essential to prepare for this during pregnancy planning and ensure proper body weight and the health of both parents. During pregnancy, however, weight gain control is critical. This is typically done under a doctor's supervision at each visit. Both mineral and vitamin deficiencies and excess calories should be avoided. Pregnant diets should primarily consist of minimally processed foods and be based on fruits, vegetables, grains, and plant-based products. It is advisable to limit the consumption of salt, sugar, and animal fats. A varied menu is essential, and according to the principles of healthy living, small deviations from a healthy diet or pregnancy cravings do not pose a threat. Even with a healthy and varied diet, it is necessary to remember about supplementation. Current recommendations indicate the need to take vitamin D, iodine, folic acid, and DHA fatty acids (M. Zimmer et al. 2020). Iron supplementation should only be taken based on a doctor's recommendation. It is not recommended to take multivitamins during this period. The first priority is to ensure a varied diet, and then, after consulting a doctor, consider supplementation with other components. During pregnancy – if there are no contraindications – it is essential to maintain moderate physical activity. It is recommended to limit caffeine intake to 200 mg per day, which is about two cups of coffee (300 ml). Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited as even small amounts can negatively affect fetal development.

Lactation is a cornerstone of early nutritional programming and the best possible preventive health measure. Whenever feasible, exclusive breastfeeding is recommended until the infant reaches 6 months of age, and continued thereafter for as long as mother and child desire. One study demonstrated that in infants who were not breastfed or were weaned before 4 months of age, the risk of obesity at age 3 was 6 times higher if complementary foods were introduced earlier than recommended (S. Y. Huh et al. 2011). Colostrum, produced in the first days after birth, contains exceptionally high levels of immune-boosting components that shield the newborn against infections. Breastfeeding reduces the subsequent risk of overweight, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers later in life. Interestingly, lactation also provides notable health benefits for the mother – lowering her risk of diabetes, metabolic syndrome, obesity, osteoporosis, and breast cancer. The longer lactation continues, the greater the protective benefits. Human milk provides optimal nutrient proportions, and demand-fed infants regulate their intake according to appetite, which mitigates long-term obesity risks. Furthermore, human milk contains hormones that regulate appetite. Excessively high dietary protein intake in infancy can increase future obesity risk; decades ago, cow's milk contained substantially more protein than breast milk, contributing to elevated obesity risks in cow's milk-fed infants.

After a child reaches the 6th month of life, it is important to pay attention to a varied, nutritious diet that can help prevent nutritional deficiencies. Additionally, a healthy diet is also important for appropriate, proportional weight gain, which should be monitored using the central grid. In case of concerning changes, it is recommended to consult with a pediatrician, as maintaining a healthy weight in early childhood can help ensure future health. It is also important to remember that parents decide what the child eats, but the child decides how much it eats, and that the healthy diet of parents also influences the eating habits of children. Meals should have a high nutrient density, i.e., provide as many nutrients as possible in the recommended number of kilocalories. Protein in the diet of small children should make up 5-15% of the energy requirement, and its sources are meat, eggs and dairy products. Fat is an essential component of the diet of infants and should make up 35-40% of the energy requirement in children and 20-30% in adults. An adequate intake can be achieved through the consumption of products such as vegetable oils, butter, meat, and dairy products. In the diet of children, fatty sea fish or supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) can also be considered, which play an important role in the functioning of the brain, heart, and immune system.