New research suggests the lack of a bacterium known to help infants digest breast milk could have significant consequences for the developing immune system.
The researchers found that 76% of U.S. infant guts had deficient levels of Bifidobacteria, and 25% had no detectable Bifidobacteria. These bacteria play a critical role in infant health and development, particularly when it comes to protecting babies from chronic illness.
From the 412 participants, the researchers received 210 follow-up health surveys at two years of age. Among these babies, 30% had an adverse health outcome, with 12.4% reporting allergies, 21.0% reporting eczema or dermatitis, and 3.3% reporting asthma. Statistical analysis revealed that babies with deficient levels or a total lack of Bifidobacteria—who made up 76% of the participants—were at greater risk of developing chronic immune conditions. What’s more, the researchers found thatinfant Bifidobacterium has a protective effect, reducing relative risk in the population.
