Parenting can be a chaotic journey, often filled with dire admonitions about keeping children clean and shielded from germs. In our quest to maintain cleanliness, we frequently overlook an essential truth: not all bacteria are harmful. In fact, certain types of bacteria can play a critical role in helping our children develop robust immune systems. One of these superheroes is Bifidobacterium infantis (B. infantis), a vital microorganism that significantly aids in the digestion of breast milk.
As a neonatologist devoted to the health of infants, I’m keenly aware of the pivotal place nutrition holds in promoting the well-being of newborns. Breast milk is not just a meal; it’s a carefully calibrated blend of nutrients designed to support the growth and development of infants. Ensuring that babies derive maximum benefit from their mother’s milk is paramount, laying the groundwork for a healthier future.
Recent studies have revealed alarming statistics: over 90% of American infants are born without adequate levels of B. infantis, a stark contrast to its prevalence in babies of the past and in certain global communities, such as the Old Order Mennonites. This raises a pressing question: Why is this beneficial bacterium disappearing, and how can we restore it within the infant gut?
B. infantis resides primarily in the lower intestine, forming a symbiotic relationship with various nutrients that traverse the gastrointestinal tract. A crucial player in this dynamic is human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) — complex carbohydrates unique to breast milk. Infants lack the capability to digest HMOs on their own; they rely on B. infantis to break them down into usable nutrients.
The absence of this essential bacterium causes these carbohydrates to remain undigested, potentially stunting the natural development of a newborn’s immune system. This scenario underscores the importance of incorporating baby probiotics into an infant’s diet, which can help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria.
Introducing Evivo, an infant probiotic containing B. infantis EVC001, which has shown remarkable efficacy in facilitating the digestion of HMOs. Clinical studies indicate that infants who consume this probiotic alongside breast milk exhibit 100% colonization of B. infantis in their gut, thus enhancing the nutritional benefits of breast milk and promoting overall gut health.
The advantages of a healthy gut microbiome extend beyond digestion; they manifest as reduced instances of gas, fussiness, and even diaper rash. The modern way of life, with its extensive use of antibiotics, rising C-section birth rates, and an increase in formula feeding, has inadvertently created an environment where beneficial bacteria like B. infantis struggle to thrive. Antibiotics, useful as they are, can eradicate good bacteria alongside harmful ones. Meanwhile, C-section deliveries often result in missed opportunities for babies to acquire their mother’s beneficial bacteria during vaginal birth.
Additionally, formula-fed babies may miss out on B. infantis, as breastfeeding allows for a more effective transfer of beneficial bacteria.
Researchers from the University of California at Davis have shed light on the importance of B. infantis in the breakdown of HMOs — a critical relationship that has existed for centuries. Their innovative work led to the development of Evivo, a powder that, when combined with a small amount of breast milk and administered daily, can effectively colonize a baby’s gut with B. infantis EVC001. This probiotic not only aids in digesting HMOs but also produces metabolites vital for directing the infant immune system to respond to pathogens appropriately.
By incorporating Evivo into an infant’s feeding regimen, parents can proactively support the development of a healthy immune system. As caregivers, our foremost concern revolves around the health of our children, and comprehending the significance of beneficial bacteria empowers us to make informed nutritional choices.
Despite the concerning trend of B. infantis deficiency among infants, products like Evivo represent practical solutions, helping lay the foundation for improved health outcomes.
As we navigate the complex journey of parenthood, it is essential to recognize that each mother’s experience is unique. The Motherly Collective serves as a nurturing community where mothers can share stories, advice, and insights, consequently building a support network. For those interested in contributing, know that your experience can help inform and inspire fellow parents on this incredible journey of motherhood.
The absence of B. infantis in infants is a critical public health concern, but tools like Evivo provide a viable avenue for restoration. By understanding the role of beneficial bacteria in our children’s health, we can embrace a holistic approach to infant nutrition that transcends mere cleanliness. The health and well-being of future generations depend on our commitment to fostering an environment where beneficial microorganisms can thrive.