Gastroenterology

To evaluate the impact of oligofructose (OF)-supplemented infant formula on fecal microbiota, stool characteristics, and hydration. Methods. Ninety-five formula-fed infants were randomized to α-lactalbumin-enriched control formula (CF) or identical formula with 3.0 g/L OF (EF) for 8 weeks; 50 infants fed human milk (HM) were included. Over 8 weeks, bifidobacteria count increased more in EF than CF group, EF group stool consistency was intermediate between CF and HM. Physician-assessed hydration status was normal for all infants. Conclusions. Infant formula with 3.0 g/L OF promoted bifidobacteria growth and softer stools without adversely affecting stool frequency or hydration.

Discussing the influence of the microbiome on digestive and other illnesses and prebiotics’ role in overall health of infants, children, and adults.

Bacteria are prevalent in the human gut as part of the gut microbiome. Most have a benign effect; however some may cause disorder and others are positive for our health. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are uniquely found in human milk and represent the third largest component. HMO are thought to confer some of the health benefits associated with breast feeding including the development of improved gut microbiota, reducing infection, improving immune function, possible role in promoting brain development. Emerging science also supports a role in growth and metabolism.