As parents, we often find ourselves in an unending struggle to maintain a healthy and clean environment for our children while safeguarding them from illness. We frequently associate bacteria with disease, neglecting the fact that not all bacteria are harmful. In reality, many types of bacteria play a significant role in our health, particularly in the early development of infants. Understanding this duality is essential for promoting the well-being of newborns and maximizing their growth potential.
One of the key players in this beneficial bacterial group is Bifidobacterium infantis, commonly referred to as B. infantis. This specific bacterium is essential for the effective digestion of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), unique carbohydrates found in breast milk. Newborns depend on these carbohydrates for their immune system development and overall growth. Without B. infantis, these vital nutrients remain undigested within an infant’s gastrointestinal tract, preventing them from leveraging the protective qualities of breast milk.
Recent alarming research uncovered a startling trend: over 90% of infants born in the United States now lack B. infantis, a bacterium that was once significantly more prevalent in infants during the early 20th century. While some traditional communities, such as the Old Order Mennonites, still maintain a healthy population of this bacterium, many modern infants are not so fortunate. Exploring the reasons for its decline is essential to understanding how we can restore it and enhance our infants’ gut health.
There are several interconnected factors contributing to the absence of B. infantis in many infants’ gut microbiomes. One critical issue is the dramatic increase in antibiotic usage since the mid-20th century. Although antibiotics are an essential medical advancement, their wide usage can compromise beneficial bacteria like B. infantis, ultimately disrupting the delicate balance of the gut microbiome.
Another contributing factor is the rising rate of cesarean deliveries, which accounts for approximately 31% of births in the U.S. During a vaginal birth, infants are exposed to their mother’s gastrointestinal flora—a vital source of protective bacteria. However, those born through C-section may miss out on this essential inoculation, further increasing the likelihood of diminished B. infantis colonization. Even infants delivered vaginally are not entirely immune from this issue, as lifestyle and feeding practices can impede the natural acquisition of beneficial microbes.
Moreover, formula feeding presents significant challenges in fostering the growth of B. infantis. While formula is a necessary alternative for many families, it fails to support the colonization of beneficial bacteria as effectively as breastfeeding does. This trend may have collective implications for our children’s health and development.
The good news is that science continues to unravel the intricate relationship between B. infantis and HMOs, highlighting the potential for targeted probiotic interventions. For instance, Evivo, an infant probiotic containing B. infantis EVC001, has shown promise in helping infants restore this critical bacterium in their gut. When mixed with a small amount of breast milk, Evivo can effectively colonize infants’ digestive tracts and enable them to digest HMOs efficiently. This results in the production of beneficial metabolites that can steer the immune system to function optimally in the face of foreign pathogens.
Incorporating a probiotic like Evivo into your child’s feeding routine can significantly enhance their gut health. With improved digestion of HMOs, infants can experience a myriad of benefits including reduced fussiness, better sleep, and fewer gastrointestinal issues. These advantages can lead to happier families and more relaxed parenting experiences.
As awareness of the importance of beneficial bacteria increases, it’s crucial for parents to take an active role in safeguarding their infants’ health. Understanding the significance of bacteria like B. infantis empowers parents to make informed choices about feeding practices and overall health strategies. Though many infants unfortunately lack this vital bacterium, options such as Evivo provide an innovative, straightforward approach to promote better health outcomes.
The narrative of motherhood is multifaceted, and by emphasizing the importance of beneficial bacteria, we can better support each other on this remarkable journey. Establishing a solid foundation for our children’s health is critical, and it is time for us to take responsibility as advocates for our little ones’ microbiomes.