Nutrition across the life cycle
A balanced diet is essential for mother and child during pregnancy and lactation, as well as for fast growing children during infancy and adolescence. Increased nutrient density of diets is key during these vulnerable life periods to support growth, immunity and cognitive development.
In low- and middle-income countries, food insecurity results in monotonous diets that are low in essential vitamins and minerals, and bioavailability of micronutrients is often compromised. Frequent or chronic infectious diseases, such as helminth infections or malaria, deplete essential micronutrients from the body. Simultaneously, overweight and obesity are causing a still increasing worldwide pandemic amongst all age groups and social classes.
We aim to assess dietary intake and adequacy, and to evaluate the efficacy of nutritional interventions among women, children and adolescents across the globe. Breastmilk volume and composition is one of the aspects that we are studying. In low- and middle-income settings, we explore innovative solutions, either food-based or not, to improve nutrient status and health outcomes. Further, we study causes and consequences of overweight and obesity in various population groups and settings.
