Cebu Province – Mothers play a critical role in the growth and development of children. This Mother’s Day which is celebrated across more than 46 countries in the world, we salute all mothers especially in their care of children in the First 1000 Days of their children’s lives. 

First 1000 Days is the time between a woman’s pregnancy and her child’s second birthday of which is a very crucial time of an infant’s life wherein foundations for optimum health and development across the lifespan are established. It is also commonly known as the window of opportunity because it is in this timeframe that we can correct any health issues of the baby specifically poor nutritional status. The right nutrition and care during the 1000-day window influences not only whether the child will survive, but also his or her ability to grow and learn. Hence, the mother plays a significant role to the well-being of the developing infant.

The pregnant mother's health, nutrition and stress levels can have a huge effect on the future of her baby. Receiving good nutrition in the womb and through early life is essential for a child's future health. Research has shown that what a mother eats, her weight and her lifestyle habits can influence how the baby's metabolism, immune system and organs develop. Poor nutrition and unhealthy habits during pregnancy and early life can lead to obesity, heart disease and stroke later.

It is important for the people surrounding the mother and the mother herself to know how to take care of the pregnant mom by eating the right kind of food and keeping away from the stressors. To give the baby the best possible start in life, it's important that the mother eats a healthy diet while she is pregnant and to breastfeed for at least 6 months if possible. Once the baby starts eating solids, the mother can help them develop healthy eating habits for life. In the long run, this will yield significant returns through more years of education, more employment and better health as an adult.

All members of the family are part of the process in getting the baby a strong and healthy start of life, but it is in the mother’s hands to act on improving her child’s nutrition to enable her child to reach his or her full developmental potential and securing a brighter future for us all. Indeed, the role of mothers is truly priceless in terms of her countless love, dedication, and devotion towards her children and her family. This is truly a special day for the mothers who are mostly underrated in this male-dominated society. // ND II Jocefel O. Callet, RND