Metabolic health is crucial for children’s long-term well-being. The exposome, a comprehensive measure of environmental exposures, has been linked to metabolic health outcomes. This study investigated the longitudinal relationship between exposome score and metabolic health in children.
Methods
Data from the Generation R Study, a prospective birth cohort in the Netherlands, were analyzed. Exposome score was calculated at ages 6 and 10 years using 93 environmental factors. Metabolic health was assessed at ages 6, 10, and 13 years using measures of insulin resistance, body composition, and lipid profile.
Results
Higher exposome scores at age 6 were associated with worse metabolic health at age 10. This association was strongest for insulin resistance and body fat percentage. Exposome scores at age 10 were also associated with metabolic health at age 13, although the effects were weaker.
Specific Exposures Associated with Poor Metabolic Health Included:
- Air pollution
- Noise pollution
- Pesticides
- Heavy metals
- Processed foods
Discussion
This study provides evidence of a longitudinal relationship between exposome score and metabolic health in children. Higher environmental exposure scores were associated with worse metabolic health outcomes, particularly insulin resistance and adiposity. These findings highlight the importance of reducing children’s exposure to environmental pollutants and promoting healthy lifestyles to protect their metabolic health.
Conclusion
The exposome score is a useful tool for assessing environmental contributions to metabolic health in children. Interventions aimed at reducing environmental exposures and promoting healthy behaviors can help improve metabolic health outcomes and prevent chronic diseases later in life.
Kind regards
J. Greer
Children’s health News & Trends
