Prevention and management of gastrointestinal infections in infants from a nutritional perspective

This article considers infections of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This is a complex organ, which exists in a range of environments. Despite containing defence mechanisms against microorganisms, GI infections are common throughout infancy; however, the risk of infection can be reduced through careful hygiene and the encouragement of breast-feeding. Although research into the role of dietary factors in preventing or treating GI infection is in its early days, there is some evidence for the use of prebiotics and probiotics. The role of health care professionals is to give parents and carers advice to manage these infections, and to differentiate those infants at risk of dehydration, or those where diarrhoea and vomiting signifies something more serious. Informing parents and carers about the treatment and management of minor ailments will also help avoid unnecessary demand on the health service associated with regular consultation about these conditions.