SMA Nutrition Survey Highlights Protein Importance in First 1000 Days

24 Feb 2016 --- Research by SMA Nutrition reveals that more than half (51%) of British mothers wished there was more information available on the importance of protein in the first 1,000 days of their child’s life.

Online research was conducted by ICM Unlimited with 1,000 pregnant women and mothers with children under the age of 2 throughout Great Britain from 14 – 17 December 2015. Findings from the survey reveal:

•    46% of mothers aren’t aware that nutrition in the first 1,000 days (day of conception to 2nd birthday) is key in determining a baby’s life-long health.

•    48% of mothers don’t know the potentially negative impact that too much protein may have on their baby’s growth.

•    80% of mothers are unaware as to whether or not infants and young children are consuming the right amount of protein.

•    Just 9% of mothers know that the protein level in breastmilk decreases over the first 6 months of their baby’s life.

In response, media medic and spokesperson for the SMA Nutrition Protein Awareness Campaign Dr Ellie Cannon says a clearer understanding of the nutritional impact of protein could decrease the chances of babies being overweight or obese.

Thanks to a wealth of information available, mothers reported that they felt confident as to the types of nutrients babies need to receive to aid healthy growth and development. In a recent study by SMA Nutrition, 94% of mothers agreed that the right nutrition during the first two years is extremely important, with 91% claiming they understand the role of Omegas and Vitamin D.

However, new research from SMA Nutrition suggests there is still confusion about the role of protein in the first 1,000 days, with 80% of those questioned unaware as to whether or not infants and young children are consuming too much.

The facts about protein:
A report from the World Health Organisation (WHO) states that the appropriate levels of protein during the first two years of a baby’s life may show long term health benefits including some protection against being overweight and obesity in childhood.

Protein is a key component of breast milk that supports healthy growth and development. The right quality and quantity of protein is provided to the baby, which helps them to grow at an appropriate rate. Interestingly, the level of protein in breast milk decreases as the baby grows - a fact that just 9% of mothers fully understand.

“Although mothers know that breastfeeding is best for babies’ growth, they don’t necessarily know what this means and what nutrient to attribute that to. This changing protein composition of breast milk, helps ensure that babies follow an appropriate rate of growth, which decreases their chances of being overweight or obese,” Cannon explained.

"A better understanding of protein could help to ensure that mothers are giving their baby appropriate nutrition at each stage of their baby’s development.”