Puberty is a complex biological event that requires maturation of the reproductive
neuroendocrine axis and subsequent initiation of high-frequency, episodic release of GnRH
and LH. Nutrition is a critical factor affecting the neuroendocrine control of puberty. Although
nutrient restriction during juvenile development delays puberty, elevated rates of body
weight gain during this period facilitate pubertal maturation by programming hypothalamic
centers that underlie the pubertal process. Recent findings suggest that maternal nutrition …