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Prebiotics in infant milk formulas: new perspectives
V L Miniello1, G E Moro, L Armenio
1Dipartimento di Biomedicina dell'Età Evolutiva, University of Bari, Italy. vito.miniello@libero.it
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992). Supplement
|November 6, 2003
Summary
Supplementing infant formula with prebiotic oligosaccharides (FOS and TOS) promotes beneficial gut bacteria, potentially aiding in atopic disease prevention. This dietary modulation supports infant immunity and may redirect allergic responses.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Sciences
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Human intestinal microflora plays a crucial role in priming infant systemic and mucosal immunity.
- Dietary modulation of gut microbiota, particularly with non-digestible oligosaccharides (NDOs), is a key focus in nutritional sciences.
- Fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS) and trans-galacto-oligosaccharides (TOS) are recognized for their prebiotic effect, selectively stimulating beneficial bacteria like bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of manipulating colonic flora in bottle-fed infants for atopic disease prevention.
- To assess the impact of prebiotic ingredients (FOS and TOS) on the intestinal microbiota composition in infant formulas.
- To explore the link between gut microbial patterns and allergic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of intestinal bacterial populations in healthy versus allergic individuals.
- Supplementation of new preterm and term infant milk formulas with a mixture of TOS and FOS.
- Monitoring the colonization of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli in infants fed supplemented formulas.
Main Results:
- Infant milk formulas supplemented with TOS and FOS demonstrated a significantly higher colonization of bifidobacteria and lactobacilli.
- Distinct microbial patterns were observed between healthy and allergic individuals.
- Non-digestible TOS and FOS show potential for beneficial effects on the intestinal ecosystem.
Conclusions:
- Selective manipulation of the intestinal microbiota through prebiotic supplementation is a promising strategy for infant health.
- This approach may offer novel prophylactic and therapeutic interventions for atopy.
- Redirecting allergic Th-2 responses towards Th-1 responses via gut flora modulation is a potential future strategy for atopic disease management.