howthese adaptations influence body structure and physiology,
and by which molecular mechanisms, nutrients and hormones
can alter the gene expression. We believe that, for the
improvement of the pregnancy outcomes, the promotion of
healthy growth and development, the reduction of the risk
of chronic diseases and the slowing down of the metabolic
decline associated with aging, it is necessary to develop dietary
strategies to optimize the nutrition not only during the pregnancy,
but already at the time in which it is planned, through
the intake of adequate micronutrients, of complementary
foods and also by the promotion of breast feeding.