The first 1,000 days in a babies life is a critical window when the foundations for later neurodevelopment are laid.

Neurodevelopment is genetically determined, but reliant on the availability of the right dose of the right nutrients, at the right time.

Appropriate nutrition in pregnancy from conception to term gestation is the main non-genetic determinant of neurodevelopment, where deficiency as well as excess has irreversible consequences, regardless of subsequent correction of nutritional status.

However, exact requirements of many nutrients during this key period to best support neurodevelopment remains unclear, precluding recommendations by policy makers and limiting efforts of clinicians and parents.

Our research is addressing these gaps.