Probiotic supplement may help microbiome in extremely preterm infants

20 May 2022 --- A Canadian study aims to bring new understanding of the effect of probiotics on the early-born babies’ immature microbiome, by supplementing a mixture of five species of probiotics.

The research was carried out on infants at less than 29 weeks, weighing less than 1 kg. Scientists used probiotic supplements, which showed reduced inflammatory risk in the intestines and accelerated maturation of the microbiome of the infants.

“The findings show that a daily probiotic supplement containing the right type of microbes prompted a rapid transition of the gut microbiome to what is normally observed in healthy, breastfed infants born at term,” explains Dr. Marie-Claire Arrieta, assistant professor at the Cumming School of Medicine and co-principal investigator on the study.

“This mature microbiome is more stable, more resilient and is linked to reduced inflammation in babies' gut,” she adds.

Industry is increasingly focusing on the microbiome, with health benefits linked to the gut-brain axis.Probiotics tackling feeding challenges
When born prematurely, infants lack the development of microbiome, the “almost universal introduction of life-saving antibiotics.” Their microbiome looks very different from an infant born at a later stage, as they have a reduced amount of bifidobacterial species.

Premature birth also increases the risk of life-threatening conditions, as the immature gut has a higher level of pathogens.

“Due to their immature digestive and immune systems, preterm babies face unique challenges when feeding. The blend of probiotics in our study resulted in better feeding tolerance and reduced signs of allergic reaction in babies’ digestive system,” says Dr. Belal Alshaikh, neonatologist and co-principal investigator, at the Foothills Medical Center.

The research was carried out by scientists from Norway, Ireland, the US and Canada. It was supported by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).

“Ecosystem engineer”
According to Dr. Jumana Samara, MD, neonatologist at the FMC and first author of this study, “the gut microbiome is a complex community containing different species of microorganisms that contribute to important aspects of the immune system, including fighting pathogens and preventing immune diseases, such as asthma and Type 1 diabetes.”

The disruption of gut bacteria has previously been shown to impact the immune system and disrupt the absorption of breast milk nutrients.

“We found that the bifidobacterial strains within the probiotic supplement acted like an ecosystem engineer, promoting microbiome growth, connections between species and microbiome stability. It also dampened intestinal inflammation,” Samara adds.

However, Alshaikh emphasizes that parents should consult medical practitioners before providing their infants with probiotics. There is still a lack of research on the optimal mixture of probiotics, which requires further testing. Already commercialized products should also be safety checked, he adds.

Edited by Beatrice Wihlander