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Diarrhea in preschool children and Lactobacillus reuteri: a randomized controlled trial

Pedro Gutierrez-Castrellon1, Gabriel Lopez-Velazquez, Luisa Diaz-Garcia

  • 1National Perinatology Institute, Mexico City, Mexico.

Pediatrics
|March 19, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Daily Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 supplementation significantly reduced diarrhea and respiratory infections in healthy daycare children. This probiotic intervention also lowered doctor visits, antibiotic use, and associated costs.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Microbiology
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Childhood diarrhea and respiratory infections are significant public health concerns, particularly in daycare settings.
  • Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, are being investigated for their potential to modulate the gut microbiome and enhance immune responses.
  • Optimizing children's health in group care environments is crucial for development and reducing healthcare burdens.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To assess the efficacy of daily Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in reducing diarrheal episodes and respiratory tract infections in healthy Mexican day school children.
  • To evaluate the impact of this probiotic intervention on other health outcomes, including healthcare utilization and absenteeism.
  • To determine the cost-effectiveness of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 supplementation in this population.

Main Methods:

  • A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with healthy children aged 6-36 months attending day care centers.
  • Participants received either Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 (10^8 CFU/day) or a placebo for 3 months, followed by a 3-month follow-up period without supplementation.
  • Data analysis included all enrolled children (n=336) to evaluate the intervention's effects on various health and economic parameters.

Main Results:

  • Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 significantly decreased the frequency and duration of diarrhea and respiratory tract infections at both 3 and 6 months (P < .05).
  • The probiotic group showed significant reductions in doctor visits, antibiotic consumption, and absenteeism from day school and work (P < .05).
  • A cost-benefit analysis confirmed significant cost savings for families and the community in the Lactobacillus reuteri group, with no reported adverse events.

Conclusions:

  • Daily administration of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 is effective in reducing episodes and duration of diarrhea and respiratory infections in healthy children attending day care.
  • The probiotic intervention offers significant health benefits, including reduced healthcare utilization and absenteeism.
  • Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 supplementation presents a cost-effective strategy for improving child health and reducing community healthcare costs.
Abstract

Keywords:
Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938childrendiarrhea

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