Complementary Food and Obesity

Abstract

Background: Early infant feeding is essential for children's development and future health, particularly in preventing obesity, which is the most common nutrition-related disorder in children worldwide. Summary: Obesity, characterized by excess body fat and numerous complications, arises from a combination of genetic susceptibility and an obesogenic environment, including lifestyle behaviors related to energy balance. Eating habits start to be shaped early in life, making the introduction of solid foods a critical period. Given the high prevalence of obesity, its long-term health consequences, and social implications, prevention is crucial. This narrative review aimed to identify factors related to the introduction of solid foods that influence obesity and suggest feeding strategies to prevent it. Tracking studies indicate that overweight and obesity during childhood often persist into adulthood, with associated complications such as hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Complementary feeding involves introducing solid foods besides breast milk or formula. The timing and content of complementary feeding are crucial in influencing obesity risk. Introduction of solid foods before 4 months is associated with higher BMI in childhood. The method of introducing complementary feeding, such as baby-led weaning, has been proposed to predict later obesity risk, though findings are currently inconclusive. Parental feeding practices and socioeconomic factors significantly influence complementary feeding and obesity risk. Early prevention programs, especially those involving parental education on responsive feeding and diet, are promising for reducing obesity risk. Future programs should incorporate parents' perceptions and motivations to improve intervention effectiveness.