Xposé presenter and new mum Michelle Doherty has launched the first annual ‘First 1000 Days Awareness Week’, which will run from the 1st to the 7th of September.
The week aims to highlight the importance of good nutrition in the first 1000 days, all the way from conception up to the child’s second birthday.
More and more research is showing how vital the first couple of years are for getting the night balance of nutrition, impacting the child for their entire lives.
Good nutrition in infancy can reduce an adult’s risk of life-changing illnesses such as obesity, diabetes and more.
Launching the initiative with her three-week-old son Max, Michelle said that “as a new mum, I know how hard it can be to consistently think about the best nutritional choices, amidst the stress of having a new baby in the house.”
“At this early point, I really do take it day by day with Max, but I am definitely more conscious of what I am eating as I am breastfeeding.”
“It would be easy to reach for convenience food and sugary treats when I feel tired to give me a spurt of energy, but I find that eating well makes me feel well and as a new mum, that’s important.”
A range of activities will take place to mark the First 1000 Days Awareness Week.
As well as coverage on Ireland AM and The Last Word on Today FM, the First 1000 Days team will be in selected Tesco’s around the country with exclusive goodies, recipes and advice.
Aileen Regan, Medical Director at Danone Early life Nutrition said: “We’re delighted to have Michelle Doherty on board to help launch the First 1000 Days Awareness Week”
“The First 1000 Days of life, which includes pregnancy, breastfeeding, weaning and toodlerhood up to two years of age, is a unique time in the growth and development of an individual.
"Getting the right nutrition at this time is just so important. With a new baby in the house, we know that Michelle is the perfect person to bring this message to mums to be and new parents.”
