Early-life determinants of excessive weight gain among low-income children: Examining the adherence of theoretical frameworks to empirical data using structural equation modelling.

Background: Although childhood obesity is increasing in low-income regions, theoretical models cannot be adequately applied due to the lack of prospective studies with under 2-year-old children from impoverished populations.

Objective: To analyse direct and indirect effects of environmental, maternal, and individual factors on excess weight gain among low-income children during the first year of life.

Methods: We analysed data from a prospective birth cohort conducted in Brazil, which followed infants at birth, 3rd, 6th, and 12th month of life (n = 205).

Early onset of overweight among children from low-income families: The role of exclusive breastfeeding and maternal intake of ultra-processed food.

Context: There is an increasing prevalence of overweight during early childhood in the most impoverished areas in Brazil, although there is a lack of evidence regarding its onset.

Objectives: To investigate the incidence and risk factors associated with overweight among low-income children during their first year of life.

Methods: We analysed data from a prospective birth cohort study conducted in Brazil, which followed-up children at birth, 3rd, 6th and 12th months (n = 196).