women to help them enter pregnancy at optimal weight and with any chronic health conditions identified and in good control.
The evidence summarized above suggests that interventions promoting healthy diet and behaviors can redirect trajectories, especially if they begin early. Furthermore, because it is challenging for individuals to maintain healthful behaviors in the face of social and cultural pressures, we support policies that help limit exposures to likely obesogens. Examples include supporting smoke‐free public spaces, restricting the availability of sugary beverages in child care and school settings, and reducing exposures to toxic chemicals. It should also be remembered that the children of today will be the parents of tomorrow, and so improvements in obesity risk factors might benefit more than one generation.
Acknowledgments
Dr. Matthew W. Gillman authored a version of this chapter in the prior edition of this book, from which we took inspiration.
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