The first one thousand days of a child’s life is the period from conception to two years. It is a very important period such that if well-utilized, will play an important role in promoting the health of a child even into adulthood. Similarly, if this period is not well-utilized, it will negatively affect a child’s health until later years.
This period not only offers an excellent opportunity for a child’s proper growth and development but also it reduces a child's risk of developing other illnesses and diseases later in life. Therefore proper and adequate nutrition from conception till a child turns two years is absolutely necessary.
This includes exclusive breastfeeding for the recommended period of 4-6months and introduction of complementary feeding to accompany breastfeeding.
Every woman is encouraged to maximize these first one thousand days window of opportunity. It will contribute to promoting the health of a mother and child while ensuring a healthy population as well.
Cole Pike
