A young child formula supplemented with a synbiotic mixture of scgos/lcfos and bifidobacterium breve m-16v improves the gut microbiota and iron status of healthy toddlers

Title: A young child formula supplemented with a synbiotic mixture of scgos/lcfos and bifidobacterium breve m-16v improves the gut microbiota and iron status of healthy toddlers

The development of gut microbiota in early life is strongly influenced by diet. Iron, for example, is a crucial micronutrient that supports normal mental and motor development in children. As toddlers transition from a milk-based diet to family foods, their gut microbiota begins to resemble that of adults. However, while significant research has focused on microbiota changes during infancy, there is limited understanding of these shifts during toddlerhood.

In developing countries, the prevalence of iron deficiency in children is considered particularly high. Despite their increased need for iron, toddlers’ diets often fail to meet these demands.

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a fortified toddler milk on gut microbiota and iron status in children aged 1-2 years located in Brisbane, Australia. The CHaRM trial (a double-blinded, randomized, controlled trial) compared a fortified milk containing synbiotics (scGOS/lcFOS + Bifidobacterium breve M-16V) and additional micronutrients to standard cow’s milk.

Using gene sequencing (16S ribosomal) and predictive bioinformatic tools (PICRUSt), researchers found a positive correlation between the abundance of Bifidobacterium and improved blood iron levels. Toddlers who consumed the fortified milk demonstrated better iron status and a higher presence of beneficial Bifidobacterium species compared to those drinking standard cow’s milk.

This study underscores the critical role of diet in early gut microbiota development and provides evidence that fortified milk can have a positive impact on both nutritional status and gut microbiome composition in young children.

Learn more about the study: Frontiers | A young child formula supplemented with a synbiotic mixture of scGOS/lcFOS and Bifidobacterium breve M-16V improves the gut microbiota and iron status of healthy toddlers (frontiersin.org)