Nutritional requirements for fetal and neonatal bone health and development

Abstract

Evidence is emerging that skeletal development has its origins in fetal life and early infancy. The concept of "developmental programming" embraces the theory that metabolic events during critical time periods of antenatal and postnatal development have moderating effects on peak bone mass achieved in late adolescence and even osteoporosis risk. In addition to heritable factors, long-term programming of bone growth and bone mass accretion may be influenced by exposures during pregnancy including maternal body composition, diet and lifestyle factors (smoking, physical activity) as well as early infant nutrition, physical activity and growth patterns. The genetic variants responsible for diversity in bone mass between individuals and populations are also beginning to be identified. Current recommendations for nutrient requirements for optimal bone health do not take all of the genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic factors into account. Future research is needed to provide a composite of information so that nutrient recommendations can be better defined in order to optimize skeletal mineralization, achievement of peak bone mass, and reduced risk of osteoporosis in later life.