Nourishing Knowledge: Sharing Research at a Paris Nutrition Conference

Last month, TARGet Kids! PhD Candidate, Fatemeh Khorramrouz, attended the International Congress of Nutrition (IUNS-ICN) Conference in Paris. In this article, Fatemeh discusses her experience at IUNS-ICN 2025 and her research on the importance of fathers' health in the preconception period.

This summer, the 23rd International Congress of Nutrition (IUNS-ICN) in Paris brought together researchers, clinicians, and nutrition experts from around the world, creating a dynamic platform for sharing ideas, innovation, and advances in public health nutrition. With 3,835 participants from 117 countries and 1,619 speakers, the conference highlighted the global momentum driving research and policy in nutrition.

I had the privilege of presenting an oral presentation titled: "The Association between Paternal Preconception BMI and Early Childhood Nutritional Risk." This research examined the influence of fathers’ preconception weight status on early childhood nutrition, contributing to a deeper understanding of how paternal factors shape healthy eating behaviors even before a child is born. As a PhD student, it was a fantastic opportunity to showcase my work on an international stage, receive feedback from global experts, and engage in meaningful discussions that have inspired me for future research.

Beyond the presentations, the conference offered an incredible sense of community. The energy in Paris was vibrant, and connecting with fellow researchers from diverse backgrounds sparked insightful conversations and fostered potential collaborations. The conference venue was just a few steps from the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées, placing us in the heart of Paris’s vibrant atmosphere. One unforgettable highlight of my time in Paris was a night tour to the Louvre with my colleagues, where we enjoyed the museum’s masterpieces. We also strolled along the Seine, savored fresh croissants, and visited the iconic Eiffel Tower—a truly quintessential Paris experience.

Attending IUNS-ICN 2025 reinforced the importance of international collaboration in advancing child nutrition and health. Learning from global experts and innovative research approaches further inspired my commitment to developing evidence-based strategies that support healthy growth and development in children. Returning from the conference, I feel energized and inspired to continue my work with TARGet Kids!, integrating lessons learned and new perspectives into ongoing research aimed at promoting healthy eating behaviours in early childhood.