The journey of parenthood often weighs heavily on the shoulders of those who embark upon it. Among the myriad challenges, one of the most pervasive is ensuring that newborns remain healthy, thriving amid a world that seems fraught with germs and illness. However, a common misunderstanding is that all bacteria are detrimental; on the contrary, certain strains are essential for the development of an infant’s immune system. A prime example is Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis), a crucial bacterium involved in the digestion of breast milk. Understanding its role, coupled with awareness of the concerning trends in its declining presence, is vital for both parents and healthcare providers.
Bifidobacterium infantis plays a significant role in the gut microbiome, particularly in infants who are exclusively breastfed. This beneficial bacterium is not just a passive inhabitant but an active participant in digestive health. Notably, it aids in breaking down human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs)—complex carbohydrates that infants cannot digest without the aid of beneficial bacteria. Without B. infantis, HMOs pass through the digestive system untouched, negating their health benefits and potentially impeding the natural development of an infant’s immune system.
As a neonatologist, I recognize that nutrition is one of the cornerstones of infant health. Breast milk is specifically designed to cater to the nutritional needs of newborns, rich in the local flora that helps support the infant’s health. Yet, recent studies have shown a shocking trend: over 90% of infants born in the United States currently lack B. infantis. This decline represents a significant shift from the early 1900s, when this bacterium thrived within the infant gut microbiome.
Several modern societal and medical practices have unwittingly contributed to the decline of B. infantis in infants today. One major factor includes the widespread use of antibiotics, which, while crucial for treating bacterial infections, can also decimate both harmful and beneficial bacteria in the gut. This extensive antibiotic usage has increased since the mid-20th century, leading to a notable reduction in the diversity of the gut microbiota in infants.
The rising rate of cesarean section deliveries, accounting for roughly 31% of births in the U.S., also plays a significant role in this scenario. Babies delivered via C-section miss out on the microbial exposure that naturally occurs during vaginal delivery, where they receive essential bacteria from their mother. Alarmingly, even infants born vaginally are increasingly being found with low levels of B. infantis, indicating that other lifestyle choices and environmental factors are at play, such as dietary habits and the frequencies of hospital births.
Finally, while infant formula can be a lifeline for many families, it fails to replicate the beneficial bacterial transfer that comes with breastfeeding. As a result, infants who rely heavily on formula feeding may miss out on colonization by B. infantis and other helpful microbes.
In light of these trends, the introduction of infant probiotics, particularly those containing B. infantis, offers a promising intervention. A prime example of this is Evivo, an innovative infant probiotic effectively designed to help infants digest HMOs and populate their gut with the necessary beneficial bacteria. When given daily, Evivo can facilitate the colonization of the gut with B. infantis EVC001, enhancing the digestive capabilities and immune response of nursing infants.
Clinical studies surrounding Evivo have yielded promising outcomes, with infants receiving this probiotic alongside breast milk exhibiting a 100% colonization rate of B. infantis. This symbiotic relationship between Evivo and breast milk not only aids in the efficient digestion of HMOs but also helps in the production of metabolites that bolster immune function, paving the way for enhanced overall health.
It is incumbent upon parents and caregivers to educate themselves about the importance of beneficial gut bacteria such as B. infantis. Recognizing the critical role of this bacterium can guide informed decisions regarding infant nutrition and health. By considering the inclusion of carefully formulated probiotics like Evivo, parents may empower their babies to establish a solid foundation for long-term health.
Understanding the intricate interplay between diet, microbiome, and immune development will lead to a more enlightened approach to infant care. As we move forward, it is essential to remain proactive about incorporating beneficial bacteria in our babies’ diets, recognizing that small steps can yield substantial benefits for their overall well-being.