Prevention of functional gastrointestinal disorders in neonates: clinical and socioeconomic impact

F Indrio1, A Di Mauro1, A Di Mauro1

  • 1Pediatric Unit, Department of Biomedical Science and Human Oncology, University of Bari 'Aldo Moro', Giovanni XXIII Hospital, Via Amendola 270, 70126 Bari, Italy.

Beneficial Microbes
|January 23, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Early probiotic supplementation may prevent infant functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) like colic and reflux by altering gut microbiota colonization. This approach offers a novel strategy for infant digestive health.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Gastroenterology
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Infantile colic, gastro-oesophageal reflux, and constipation are common infant functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs).
  • While often self-limiting, these FGIDs can be risk factors for later-life health issues.
  • Abnormal gut microbiota colonization is increasingly implicated in FGID pathophysiology.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To explore the role of gut microbiota in infant FGIDs.
  • To investigate the potential of early probiotic supplementation as a preventive strategy.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current research on infant FGIDs and gut microbiota.
  • Analysis of evidence supporting probiotic interventions.

Main Results:

  • Gut microbiota plays a significant role in the development of infant FGIDs.
  • Early probiotic supplementation shows potential to modify gut colonization patterns.

Conclusions:

  • Altering gut microbiota through early probiotic use may prevent FGIDs.
  • Probiotics represent a promising preventive approach for infant digestive health.

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