A DHA representative recently visited the Nutricia Early Life Nutrition Research Centre in Utrecht, The Netherlands, with an aim to be briefed on the most recent advancements in research and development in the field of early life nutrition, and to interact with delegates from various health authorities in the region.

Dr. Mahmoud Saleh El Halik, Consultant Neonatologist and Head of the Paediatric and Neonatal Unit at Latifa Hospital, visited the centre to understand the latest advances in this field and to discuss ways in which they can be incorporated in the DHA.

The centre, which opened in 2013, is dedicated to developing new product concepts for Early Life and Medical Nutrition. It is at the forefront of innovation in the life sciences and product technology.

Hans Van Der Wulp , General Manager of Nutricia in Middle East, added that Scientists at Nutricia Research are dedicated to understanding the first 1,000-day period, from conception to two years of age. Science now proves that what you eat, drink and experience in the first 1,000 days of life has an impact on lifelong health.

During the visit, Dr. El Halik attended various workshops and presentations on the latest research on human milk, as well as nutrition and the physical and cognitive development of infants.

He said that the outcome of this visit will foster future research projects to bring the latest advancements in the field of early life nutrition.

Dr. Wafaa Ayash, head of the Nutrition Department at DHA, reiterated that research is at the top of the DHA’s agenda and that the authority will continue to raise awareness of the importance of nutrition during the first 1,000 days, among health care professionals and parents, to help to make a difference in the health of future generations.