This technical brief highlights key factors that influence newborn nutritional outcomes and the evidence-based practices that can be applied globally to support optimal infant nutrition within the first 28 days.

Reviews available evidence on whether infection diminishes the positive impact of nutrition interventions on child growth and whether improved nutrition limits the negative impact of infections on child growth.

Reviews evidence of the effect of undernutrition from conception through the first two years of life on brain development and on the short-term and long-term development of cognitive, motor, and socio-emotional skills.

Discusses why intake of essential fats in the last trimester of pregnancy and the first 2 years after birth is critical for development of the brain and nervous system and presents strategies for improving fatty acid status.