First 1,000 days key to preventing childhood obesity, experts warn
Childhood obesity has reached "alarming" levels in the UK, prompting leading scientists to call for urgent action to establish healthy habits during the earliest stages of life.
According to experts from the UK Academy of Medical Sciences and the Italian National Academy of Sciences, the first 1,000 days, from conception to a child’s second birthday, are critical in determining long-term health outcomes. Research shows that once poor weight trajectories are established by the age of five, they are difficult to reverse.
“The overall goal should be to establish and maintain a healthy body-weight trajectory that avoids excess gain early in life,” the experts advised.
The warning follows recent research tracking the BMI of thousands of children in the Netherlands, which found that a child’s weight by age six is a strong predictor of future obesity. It also revealed that the first five years are a vital window to prevent excess weight gain.
Currently, more than one in four children aged two to 15 in England are classed as living with overweight or obese, according to government data. Projections suggest obesity rates among children aged five to 14 could rise significantly by 2050, with an estimated 53 per cent increase for girls and 57 per cent for boys.
Parents or carers are recommended to consider the following evidence-based strategies:
Encourage slow, mindful eating – Help children tune into hunger and fullness cues, and make mealtimes distraction-free to promote healthier relationships with food.
Limit snacking and adjust portion sizes – Reduce reliance on ultra-processed foods (UPFs), which account for nearly half of toddlers' calorie intake in the UK. Serve child-appropriate portions using smaller crockery.
Sneak vegetables into meals – Use creative recipes, like blending vegetables into sauces or meat dishes, to boost their intake without resistance.
Lead by example – Children mirror adult behaviour. Demonstrate a healthy lifestyle and speak positively about food and exercise.
Be active as a family – Introduce regular, fun physical activities such as walks, park visits or team sports.
Prioritise good sleep – A consistent bedtime routine improves not only mood and focus, but also helps regulate weight.
Set realistic goals and rewards – Work with your child to set achievable health targets and celebrate their progress with positive reinforcement.
Stay consistent – Routine is key. Keeping regular mealtimes, exercise slots and food types helps children develop lasting healthy habits.
With obesity set to become one of the country’s most pressing public health challenges, early intervention during pregnancy and infancy could be one of the most effective tools for long-term prevention.