Nutrition

During the initial years, proper feeding is key. This includes beginning breastfeeding early, exclusively nursing for the first six months, and continuing breastfeeding for up to two years, supplemented by appropriate complementary foods starting from six months onward. A diverse diet of four or more of the seven critical food categories is important, especially including animal-source foods such as eggs, dairy, fish, chicken and meat.

Research shows that following these recommendations benefits infants, young children, mothers, and families. Optimal nutrition reduces infant and child morbidity and mortality, fosters neurodevelopment, lowers the risk of chronic diseases throughout life, and provides economic benefits for families and societies. 

However, many children are at risk of malnutrition. Undernutrition can lead to wasting or stunting, while inappropriate diets can cause overweight and obesity. Many countries face the dual burden of malnutrition. Children need healthy foods in adequate quantities to avoid being underweight or overweight, both of which can affect their physical growth and brain development. Ensuring that adolescent girls and women, particularly before and during pregnancy, receive adequate nutrition is also vital for safe delivery and good birth weight. 

Globally, 148 million children under five suffer from stunting, and the number of children under five affected by overweight has increased from 33 million in 2000 to 37 million in 2022. The first 1,000 days of life—from conception to age two—are crucial for brain development, making nutrition during this period exceptionally important. Unfortunately, more children and families are experiencing hunger, displacement, and other hardships due to conflicts, climate disasters, and other crises. Children in these crisis-affected areas face heightened risks precisely when their nutritional needs are paramount. 

Proper nutrition during early childhood is critical for brain development and long-term growth. This is even more vital in crisis situations, where young children encounter numerous risks during their rapid growth phases. Children with disabilities are especially vulnerable, with double the likelihood of malnutrition during these formative years. Disability rates are particularly high among young children in crisis-affected regions. 

The World Health Organization recommends supporting all caregivers to breastfeed optimally and suggests including support for responsive caregiving and early learning as part of nutrition interventions for infants and young children. 

This thematic page offers key facts and resources for those interested in learning more about nutrition interventions in the early years.