EC Nutrition

Introduction: The first 1,000 days of life (from conception to 2 years) represent a critical window for biological programming. During this period, the interplay between maternal-infant nutrition, gut microbiota, and epigenetic mechanisms exerts a decisive influence on future health.

Objective: To critically analyze the available evidence regarding the role of nutrition and microbiota during the first 1,000 days and their interaction with epigenetics, as well as the clinical and public health implications.

Methods: A narrative review of the literature published between 2015 and 2025 was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Included studies comprised clinical trials, cohort studies, and mechanistic research evaluating microbiota composition, microbial metabolites, and epigenetic markers in pregnant women, infants, and children under 24 months.

Results: Fifty-eight studies were analyzed. Exclusive breastfeeding promoted colonization by Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis, leading to increased production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that modulate DNA methylation and histone acetylation. Vaginal delivery and maternal-infant diets rich in fiber, folate, choline, and vitamin B12 were associated with protective epigenomic profiles. Conversely, elective cesarean delivery, early antibiotic exposure, and high consumption of ultra-processed foods were linked to dysbiosis and adverse epigenetic patterns.

Conclusion: The interaction between nutrition, microbiota, and epigenetics in the first 1,000 days represents a unique opportunity for cost-effective public health interventions aimed at optimizing long-term health outcomes.

 Keywords: First 1,000 Days; Gut Microbiota; Epigenetics; Breastfeeding; Infant Nutrition

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