Probiotic cuts risk of respiratory infections in formula-fed babies
Babies who are formula fed are more prone to infections, but the addition of a probiotic supplement containing sugars from breast milk slashed the risk of such infants catching respiratory viruses
Adding a probiotic supplement to formula milk can significantly reduce rates of respiratory infections in formula-fed babies, according to a new study. The supplement, which contains sugars similar to those found in breast milk and a specific bacterium, helps strengthen infants' immune systems and allows them to better fight off viruses that cause symptoms like sneezing and a runny nose.
Researchers at Imperial College London, who were not involved in the study, described the findings as "phenomenally exciting." However, there is a concern that such interventions could increase the risk of allergies or autoimmunity. The study involved 223 infants aged 2-5 weeks, exclusively formula-fed in Manila, Philippines. Half of the babies received a formula milk powder with the probiotic supplement, while the other half consumed the same milk without the supplement.
The infants' parents recorded any respiratory infection symptoms until they were 6 months old. The infants in the supplement group had 23% of the respiratory infections, compared to 40% in the control group, and they also recovered more quickly from the infections. The supplement appears to boost levels of a beneficial bacterium, B. longum infantis, in the gut, reduce inflammation, and support immune responses against pathogens.
Further research is needed to confirm the supplement's effects and its potential impact on allergies and asthma.
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