We all have learned how the maternal experiences and struggles during pregnancy profoundly influence the unborn child. From nutritional deficiency to emotional stress, every choice and challenge shapes baby development. These invisible connections between biology and love remind us how the mother's journey is deep-rooted in relation to the lifelong health of her offspring.

Newborn health has been the focus of research in medicine and science for quite some time now, as the early years of life usually lay the groundwork for long-term health. New research has begun to reveal just how maternal factors, such as the effects of the X chromosome and vitamin D levels during pregnancy, shape the health trajectory of a newborn. These findings unravel the intricate interplay between genetics, epigenetics, and maternal contributions in brain health and development, bringing new insights into how we approach neonatal care.

How Does the Maternal DNA Work?

The maternal X chromosome, teeming with genetic material, plays a pivotal role, perhaps impairing memory and cognitive abilities over time. Recent research indicates a significant correlation between the DNA of a mother and her baby's brain health and aging process. Studies on mice indicate that maternal genes may accelerate biological aging in the hippocampus—a brain region crucial for learning.

Moreover, silenced genes on the maternal X chromosome may have keys to cognitive development. When combined with health factors related to the mother, such as the vitamin D level during pregnancy, this complex genetic dance underscores how a mother's DNA profoundly shapes the lifelong health trajectory of her baby. An interesting study has found that the X chromosome inherited from the mother could hasten brain aging in offspring, thus increasing the susceptibility of diseases such as Alzheimer's.

Though women have two X chromosomes and men have one X and one Y, the genetic material of the X chromosome is very important. Mutations or changes in this chromosome can greatly affect brain health.

Researchers have found that in females, one X chromosome is randomly inactivated in each cell, a phenomenon that may explain some of the individual differences in brain health outcomes. Although women typically live longer and have a lower overall dementia rate than their male counterparts, Alzheimer's disease disproportionately affects females, often raising questions about the underlying genetic mechanism.

Dena Dubal and Abdulai-Saiku led research into the impact of maternal X chromosomes on brain health. They found that female mice with an active maternal X chromosome showed accelerated biological aging in the hippocampus, a region of the brain important for learning and memory. These mice also showed worse cognitive abilities as they aged compared to those with contributions from both maternal and paternal X chromosomes.

Interestingly, the cognitive abilities of aged female mice improved when researchers used CRISPR gene-editing technology to activate silenced genes on the maternal X chromosome. This finding underscores the importance of the genetic expression of the maternal X chromosome in influencing brain health.

It thus provokes the mind with such a question, where maternal genetic contribution is actually found shaping brain development and aging in human. Should similar mechanisms prevail, targeted therapies may prevent the decline that typically accompanies the passing of age to improve general health of the brain.

How Even Vitamin D Is A Critical Factor in Neonatal Health?

Another dimension of maternal influence over the health of newborns is vitamin D level in pregnancy. Deficiency of vitamin D has been one of the most common problems, especially among pregnant women in Asia. Several adverse health conditions have also been correlated with vitamin D deficiency.

Vitamin D's influence extends beyond its well-known role in bone health. Emerging evidence highlights its epigenetic effects, such as programming fetal development and shaping immune cell function. One critical epigenetic mechanism is DNA methylation, which predicts biological age and reflects developmental processes.

A Japanese study published in Nutrients looked into the impact of maternal vitamin D on epigenetic gestational age acceleration-a biomarker for neonatal and adult health. The results found that vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may affect the development of a fetus, placing newborns at risk for infections, obesity, and other health-related issues later in life.

Given the high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency, these findings highlight the importance of intensive prenatal care, including monitoring and supplementation of maternal vitamin D levels. Correction of this deficiency may have a significant role in improving neonatal outcomes and laying the foundation for healthier adulthood.

Also Read: Is Father Equally Responsible For Baby's Health?

Role of X Chromosomes in Baby's Brain Development

X chromosomes have long been recognized as critical to brain health. Previous research has linked mutations in the X chromosome to intellectual disabilities and cognitive impairments. For instance, women with Turner Syndrome, who have only one X chromosome, often experience cognitive challenges.

This genetic influence might also explain differences in cognitive abilities, verbal memory, and susceptibility to brain disorders between sexes. The maternal X chromosome, as highlighted in recent studies, appears to be particularly influential in shaping these outcomes.

The intricate relationship between maternal factors and newborn health underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to prenatal care. Key takeaways include:

Genetic Contributions

Maternal genes, especially the X chromosome, may therefore play a large role in cognitive health and aging.

Nutritional Interventions

Fixing maternal deficiency in vitamin D may mitigate potential risks associated with developmental and long-term health concerns.

Future Research

Further research on the contribution of mothers to their health, furthered by the development of newer technologies such as CRISPR, promises to bring significant advancements in neonatal and adult healthcare.

Understanding the profound implications of maternal health on newborns changes the focus of neonatal care. From genetic effects to the significance of nutrients, such as vitamin D, research emphasizes the demand for an all-inclusive approach that is more science-based about maternal and neonatal health. As researchers explore the links of maternal factors in long-term wellbeing, healthcare facilities around the globe must evolve towards better support systems, education programs, and intervention strategies for would-be mothers.

This developing field of research reminds us that the journey to a healthy life begins long before birth, in the intricate bond between mother and child.

The maternal X chromosome affects cognition and brain ageing in female mice. Nature (2025)

Maternal Vitamin D Deficiency Is a Risk Factor for Infants’ Epigenetic Gestational Age Acceleration at Birth in Japan: A Cohort Study.Nutrients 2025

The first few months of a baby's development is a very important and stressful period of time for the parents. Having a newborn and tackling unfamiliar situations and problems while also worrying about the child’s well-being is a herculean task, too much to handle for a single person. That is why both mother and father must step up and support each other through this time and hence many parents take paternity leaves. These leaves allow parents to only focus on childcare and not work obligations.

Taking time off work when a baby arrives benefits both fathers and their newborns. However, a new study reveals that most dads still don't take much parental leave, often because they simply can't afford to. The research, published in Pediatrics, found that only 36% of new fathers took more than two weeks of leave, while a significant 64% took two weeks or less.

Financial Hurdles Prevent Longer Stays

This study, which tracked the health and behavior of fathers, surveyed 261 men in Georgia who had children in 2018 or 2019. Of the 240 employed fathers, roughly 73% took some parental leave. However, only about half of those had at least some paid time off, and 20% relied solely on unpaid leave. Nearly 43% of working fathers expressed a desire for more time off but couldn't take it, primarily due to financial concerns. Many cited the inability to afford unpaid leave, insufficient accrued time off, or the fear of losing their jobs.

Why Paternity Leave Matters

Experts agree that when fathers take time off after a baby is born, it's linked to better health for the infant and improved parenting skills for the dad. It's crucial for fathers to experience both the challenges and joys of being a parent. The best way for them to do this is to step away from work and spend time with their new baby without facing money worries or the stress of potentially losing their job. Supporting fathers in taking leave can have a significant positive impact on families.

Paternity Leaves Helps Father Adapt

According to Harvard Business Review, research confirms it helps fathers bond with their babies, aids in the baby's development, and strengthens the parents' relationship. But there's a powerful, lesser-known benefit emerging from new studies: it provides a unique form of brain training for fathers.

Paternal Brain Training

Parenting isn't simply an innate ability. While we've long known about the amazing changes a mother's brain undergoes to prepare her for caring for a newborn, new research shows that fathers' brains also transform. These changes happen even without the physical experiences of pregnancy and childbirth or the associated hormonal shifts. This "parental instinct brain training" is possible for all parents.

Over the past ten years, scientists have learned a lot about neuroplasticity, which is the brain's incredible ability to change its structure and how it works based on new experiences. Becoming a parent is a major time for the brain to adapt. Experts studying this shift emphasize that "fathers are made, not born," meaning spending time with infants is crucial for developing the fathering brain.

For dads, changes in their brains, triggered by their babies' cues, are directly linked to their connection with the infant. This suggests these brain changes actually prepare them for fatherhood. A key finding is that the most impactful brain changes come from active, engaged experience. No one is naturally perfect at being a parent from day one. It's the effort of fully engaging with the baby that drives these brain changes, giving dads the necessary tools to grow into their role over time.

Why Time with Baby Matters

Quality one-on-one time with your baby is crucial. More time spent alone with an infant leads to bigger brain changes, helping dads become better, more natural caregivers. A study comparing dads in California and Spain showed differences. Spanish dads, who often have more generous paternity leave, showed more brain changes related to focused attention. This suggests dedicated time acts like a "brain workout," preparing dads for parenting. Paternity leave essentially gives you a free brain-training program. The more you engage, the more your brain adapts, making you a more responsive parent over time.

Many people mistake picky eaters for kids who are just being difficult and do not wish to eat certain foods. While that could be the case, many kids who are picky eaters have sensory issues that cause them to physically dislike certain textures or tastes.

Many parents try to force their children to eat foods they do not like, thinking that by being strict they can ensure their child gets the proper nutrition they need. However, not only does this not work, but it can also discourage the kid from eating as they will quickly associate eating as an unpleasant experience. So, how does a parent ensure their kid gets the proper nutrition they need, while also making sure they feel safe?

There are many ways to help your child expand their food preferences, but one must know the causes and different ways you can encourage them to eat better.

What Causes Picky Eating In Kids?

According to a 2018 study published in the Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, picky eating is a very common challenge many parents face during their child's early years. There isn't one clear way to define or pinpoint it, and experts don't fully agree on the best method to identify a picky eater.

Early Feeding Problems

If a child experienced significant difficulties with feeding during their infancy, such as trouble latching or swallowing, it can sometimes set the stage for picky eating habits later in childhood. These early struggles can create negative associations with food.

Late Introduction of Lumpy Foods

Delaying the introduction of chunky or textured solid foods during the weaning period, when infants transition from milk to solids, can hinder their acceptance of different food consistencies. This might lead to a preference for smoother purees only.

Pressure to Eat

When parents try to force or excessively coax a child to eat, it often backfires. This pressure can make mealtime stressful and create resistance in the child, turning eating into a power struggle rather than an enjoyable experience.

Early Pickiness

If a child displays early signs of being particular about food choices, especially if their mother expresses worry or anxiety about these behaviors, it can sometimes escalate. Parental concern can inadvertently reinforce the picky eating.

What Can Help Prevent Picky Eating?

The study also gave some simple strategies can help in preventing or reducing picky eating behaviors:

Fresh Foods

Regularly offering a wide variety of fresh, wholesome foods exposes children to diverse tastes and textures from an early age. This consistent exposure helps them develop a broader palate and acceptance of different ingredients over time.

Family Meals

Eating the same meal as your child encourages them to try new foods by seeing you enjoy them. It creates a positive and shared mealtime experience, fostering a sense of belonging and making food exploration feel more natural and inviting.

Tips To Help Kids Overcome Their Picky Eating

Try it First

Children are great imitators! When you visibly enjoy a new food yourself, showing them how much you like it, your child is far more likely to feel curious and brave enough to give it a taste. Lead by example.

Make Food Fun

Transform mealtime into a playful experience by arranging fruits and vegetables into silly shapes or funny faces on their plate. This simple trick makes eating an engaging game, shifting focus from "having to eat" to enjoyable discovery.

Let Them Choose

Empower your child by offering a limited selection of healthy food options and letting them make the final decision. This sense of control often reduces resistance and increases their willingness to explore and try what they've picked.

Serve with Favorites

Always pair a new or less-preferred food with a comforting dish your child already adores. This familiar favorite acts as a safety net, making the new food seem less intimidating and more approachable when presented together.

Don't Waste Food

When you have small amounts of uneaten healthy food, instead of discarding them, freeze tiny portions. This clever strategy allows you to reintroduce the food later, reducing waste and providing more opportunities for exposure.

Be Patient

Remember that acceptance takes time; it's completely normal for a child to reject a new food multiple times before liking it, sometimes over ten attempts. Simply reintroduce it after a few days without pressure.

Nowadays, it is very common to see kids as young as 1st or 2nd graders having phones. While having phones on their person helps parents keep a closer eye on them, but is this much exposure to electronic devices, ok?

A survey reveals that many parents feel pushed to buy smartphones for their kids, even when they have doubts. Researchers studied 500 parents with children aged 8 to 13 found that almost half felt pressured into buying a phone. Another 44% worried their child would feel "left out" without one, showing how big this decision is for families.

Worries and Few Rules

Even though most parents (74%) had concerns at first, a quarter gave their child a smartphone without talking about if they were ready emotionally. The study also showed that a small number of parents (13%) put very few or no limits on phone use. Most of these parents felt their kids would just find ways around any rules anyway.

This study was requested by Motorola to highlight helpful online tools and advice from a UK children's charity. It aims to show the tough choices parents face when getting their child's first phone.

Is There a "Right" Age?

An expert noted that there's no "right" age to give a child their first phone. It really depends on each child and what that family needs. They stressed that parents should think about why their child needs a phone. If it's just for calls and texts, a simpler phone might be better than a smartphone. The expert also highlighted how important it is for parents and kids to talk openly about staying safe online.

Another survey, which included 500 children aged 8 to 13, found that 44% of kids were going online or using apps without their parents knowing. What's more concerning, during this unsupervised time, 31% saw things they felt were not appropriate for their age.

Why Smartphones Are Still Popular

Even with these concerns, most parents are still choosing smartphones over simpler devices for their kids. The main reasons are safety features and GPS tracking, with over half of parents (56%) seeing these as key benefits. A representative from the phone company said, "It's important to ensure children are equipped with the right guidance and boundaries when it comes to smartphone use and internet access." The company is actively working with charities to give parents the tools and information to make smart choices about their children's smartphone use.

Do Smartphones Affects Children’s Health

A 2022 study done by European Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, states that more and more kids and teens are using cell phones and other wireless gadgets. The study found some evidence suggesting that a lot of general phone and device use might be linked to more outward behavior problems like being hyper or aggressive in younger kids and teens. However, the results were less clear for inward problems like anxiety or depression.

Another 2023 study published in the Journal of Therapies & Rehabilitation Sciences, detailed the physical as well as mental aspects of smartphone usage in kids.

Physical Health

Spending too much time looking down at smartphones is really impacting kids' bodies. This often leads to poor posture, where their necks are bent forward for long periods, causing stiffness and pain. It can also limit how much they can move their neck and put extra strain on their spine. Plus, this constant bent-neck position can even affect their breathing, making their lungs work less well and weakening the muscles they use to breathe. These problems are also connected to kids being less fit and sometimes gaining too much weight.

Mental Health and Well-being

Beyond just physical issues, using smartphones too much can also hurt kids' minds and feelings. It can make real-life friendships weaker, leading to kids feeling more lonely and shy around others. Emotionally, a lot of screen time might make them act immature, have unstable moods, struggle to pay attention, and have less self-control. Another big problem is that using phones a lot is linked to more sleep problems, meaning kids aren't getting the rest they need to be healthy and happy.