Danone develops synbiotic to decrease mastitis in breastfeeding mothers

12 Jul 2023 --- By combining the L. salivarius PS2 probiotic strain with fructooligosaccharides (FOS) nutrifibers in its latest synbiotic supplement, Almimama, Danone looks to reduce the incidence of mastitis – a painful inflammation of the breast tissue – in nursing mothers.

Studies show taking probiotics, including Lactobacillus salivarius PS2, can reduce the risk of developing mastitis by up to 59% compared to placebo if taken during pregnancy.

“FOS is a prebiotic fibre. It’s the combination of the pre-and probiotic that makes this a synbiotic supplement. Synbiotic combinations can work synergistically in supporting a healthy microbiome which is known to be important for the health of both mother and baby,” Dr. Rocio Martin, global medical and scientific affairs director at Danone tells Nutrition Insight.

Mastitis affects one in four breastfeeding mothers during the first 26 weeks postpartum. It is one of the main reasons mothers have to stop breastfeeding earlier than necessary. It causes flu-like symptoms, breast pain, skin rashes, fever and breast engorgement.

Healthy mom and baby
While breastfeeding has many benefits for the health of the mother and baby, only 48% of babies under six months are exclusively breastfed. Almimama is a rare synbiotic supplement combining the probiotic strain with fructo-oligosaccharides (FOS).

“Specifically, when it comes to this innovation, we know mastitis, which affects approximately 1 out of 4 breastfeeding mothers, is considered one of the main reasons mothers stop breastfeeding. Probiotic supplementation has the potential to support or extend the duration of breastfeeding by preventing it from developing,” says Martin.

“They are given little information in this regard and may not know that complications occur in up to one-third of cases. We understand this can be distressing, and with this solution, we hope to support mothers in extending their breastfeeding journey as long as possible.”Almimama has a neutral taste and dissolves quickly.

Almimama has the potential to support or extend the duration of breastfeeding and is recommended to be taken in the third trimester of pregnancy and during breastfeeding.

Breastmilk is recognized as nature’s most potent nutrition and tailor-made for a baby’s needs, providing many short- and long-term benefits for both babies and mothers.

Good bacteria
Research shows that probiotic supplementation during late pregnancy and in the early stages of breastfeeding reduces the incidence of mastitis. Probiotics or ‘’good bacteria’’ are live microorganisms that can benefit health when administered in adequate amounts.

Almimama comes in packs of 30 powdered sachets, to be taken once a day according to the recommended dose. The supplement has a neutral taste and dissolves quickly in water. Each pack features a special QR code linking it to online content about breastfeeding and its benefits.

Meanwhile, consumers worldwide are keen to learn more about probiotics, a study by Chr. Hansen reveals. According to the findings, the interest is driven by demands for gut health, feeling better and immunity support.

A growing body of research evidences the potential of probiotics – dubbed psychobiotics – as an alternative to antidepressants. With consumers increasingly concerned over mental health, Nutrition Insight recently spoke to NZMP on the potential in the space.

By Inga de Jong

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