Nutrition in Pregnancy and Growth

This volume updates knowledge on the important links existing between maternal nutrition and child health and between infant diet and normal growth. It reviews the latest findings on the effect of maternal diet on fetal development and on the powerful adaptive mechanisms which help to optimize fetal growth and milk production. The most recent knowledge on the composition of human milk and its effect upon the development of infants is summarized and data on the evaluation of infant growth and body composition is provided. Reference and standard data for use as a general guide in monitoring the nutritional status of growing children are also presented. With its special emphasis on the practical application of new knowledge, this publication provides valuable information for pediatricians, nutritionists and dieticians who wish to keep abreast of advances in the field.