Infant Dietary Patterns and Early Childhood Weight Outcomes: A Secondary Analysis from the Starting Early Program Trial.
Lauren T Berube, Christina N Kim, Andrea L Deierlein et al.
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In 30 seconds
This secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial involving 377 mother-infant dyads examined the impact of infant dietary patterns on weight outcomes. It found that infants in the Formula fed-Low variety class had higher weight-for-age z-scores and were more likely to be classified as overweight at 24 and 36 months compared to the Breastfed-High variety class. Participation in the Starting Early Program increased membership in the Breastfed-High variety class, mediating lower weight-for-age z-scores at 24 months.
Key findings
- Infants in the Formula fed-Low variety class had higher WFAz and were more likely to be classified as overweight at 24 and 36 months.
- Participation in StEP increased membership in the Breastfed-High variety dietary pattern.
- Breastfed-High variety dietary pattern mediated the association between StEP and lower WFAz at 24 months.
Why it matters
Understanding the relationship between infant dietary patterns and weight outcomes is crucial for developing effective interventions to prevent childhood obesity. This study highlights the importance of promoting healthy dietary patterns in early life.