Report by Simon: tackling the obesity crisis

We've all heard of the expression "You are what you eat" but now according to scientists at Southampton University "You are what your mother eats". New research shows our weight can be predetermined before we are born or even conceived. With figures for childhood obesity on the rise, experts say educating the next generation of parents is the solution. Simon Parkin reports.

Meanwhile Researchers at the University of Southampton are looking for volunteers to help with their research into the impact of nutrients, before and during pregnancy, on the health of mothers and their babies

Experts say increasing evidence shows the mother’s nutritional state as she enters pregnancy is important for the baby’s development. For example, if the mother has high blood sugar levels it can predispose the baby to having increased body fat in later life.

The Southampton study is evaluating the benefits of maintaining healthy blood sugar, vitamin and mineral levels in the mother, and the potential to promote a healthy pregnancy and healthy growth and development of the child.

The research team are looking for women aged 18-38 years who are planning on becoming pregnant to take part. Women recruited from the Southampton area will be asked to attend a number of appointments at Southampton General Hospital, where a research nurse will complete a questionnaire and body measurements, blood, hair and cheek swab samples will be taken. Participants will be randomly selected to receive a standard nutritional drink containing vitamins and minerals recommended before and during pregnancy or the study nutritional drink, enriched with additional vitamins, minerals and probiotics. Taking part will also allow the women to have extra ultrasound scans during pregnancy at 7, 28 and 34 weeks, along with having their NHS ultrasound scans at 12 and 19 weeks in a dedicated suite. For further information visit www.nipperstudy.com