In recent research, scientists have been exploring the important role intestinal microbiomes play in the diets and food intolerances of entire populations. Much of this bacterial make-up in the intestines is formed within the first year of life. What happens within that first year is explored in the present study, where researchers observed changes to gut bacteria in 166 infants. Study authors accounted for such factors as delivery method (C-section or vaginal birth), diet (breastmilk or formula) and any antibiotic treatment administered to the infants within their first year. Their findings suggest that, compared to the normal progression of gut bacteria with infant age, formula-fed infants and those delivered via C-section showed changes among the bacterial families that have been linked to food allergies and rapid weight gain.
Authors:
Farzana Yasmin, Hein Min Tun, Theodore Brian Konya, David S. Guttman,Radha S. Chari, Catherine J. Field, Allan B. Becker, Piush J. Mandhane, Stuart E. Turvey, Padmaja Subbarao, Malcolm R. Sears, CHILD Study Investigators, James A. Scott, Irina Dinu and Anita L. Kozyrskyj
Lead Canadian author:
Anita Kozyrskyj, Department of Pediatrics, University of Alberta, AB, Email: kozyrsky@ualberta.ca
Original paper published in Frontiers in Pediatrics on September 26, 2017.
