ABSTRACT
The Barker hypothesis states that fetal environment, particularly maternal nutrition, can alter the physiology of the fetus such that it develops diseases in later life. This is also known as programming. Low birth weight is associated with a greater risk of CHD and diabetes mellitus. Individuals are particularly at risk if moving from an area of poor nutrition (experienced in the womb) to good nutrition (experienced as an adult). This is called catch-up growth.
