Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are powerful bioactive molecules that play a critical role in infant health, from gut microbiota development to immune protection. As the fourth most abundant component in human milk, after lactose, lipids, and proteins, HMOs provide essential benefits that cannot be replicated by standard infant formula (Bode, 2012). HMOs are not static;…

The infant gut microbiota plays a crucial role in shaping the immune system, influencing how the body responds to infections, allergies, and chronic diseases later in life. From birth, an infant’s microbiome begins developing, influenced by factors such as mode of delivery, type of feeding, antibiotic exposure, and maternal health. These factors determine whether the…

As scientific understanding of infant nutrition deepens, infant formula is evolving to more closely resemble human breast milk. The future of infant formula includes bioactive ingredients, genetically engineered components, and advanced prebiotics and probiotics, aiming to improve digestive health, immune function, and cognitive development. Although infant formula provides essential nutrients, it lacks many bioactive compounds…

The type of feeding during an infant’s first months is a major determinant of gut microbiota composition, shaping immune function, digestion, and even long-term health outcomes.   The microbiome established in early life can influence the risk of conditions such as allergies, obesity, and autoimmune disorders.   While breastfeeding is considered the gold standard for infant nutrition,…

Science doesn’t just look forward – it also looks back. Archaeological studies analyzing ancient human remains, such as coprolites (fossilized feces) and mummified specimens, provide fascinating insights into how the gut microbiome has evolved over time. While these analyses are complicated by factors such as DNA fragmentation and contamination, they offer a glimpse into the…

The human gut microbiota is a complex and dynamic ecosystem that evolves significantly over a person’s lifetime. From infancy to old age, this microbial community undergoes remarkable changes influenced by diet, environment, hormonal fluctuations, and immune system activity. Understanding how the microbiota changes with age is crucial for developing strategies to support lifelong health. The…

Melatonin, best known as the “sleep hormone,” is critical for regulating circadian rhythms. Yet, recent research has revealed an unexpected but fascinating role of melatonin in maintaining gut microbiota balance and protecting neurological health. The gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication system linking the gut and the central nervous system, is at the heart of this…

The gut microbiota plays an essential role in maintaining digestive health, immune system function, and overall well-being. However, disturbances in the balance of gut bacteria – known as dysbiosis – have been implicated in the development of numerous gastrointestinal disorders, including Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO). SIBO arises when bacteria, which are typically confined to…

If you’ve ever dealt with a gastriculcer, you’re probably familiar with the term Helicobacter pylori – the bacteria that causes ulcers and can even lead to gastric cancer.   This bacteria is one of the most resilient pathogens in the human body, but recent studies suggest that probiotics might be the game-changer in eradicating it.  Helicobacter…

Are #artificialsweeteners truly a healthy alternative to sugar? While they may help reduce calorie intake, new studies suggest they could be messing with your #gutmicrobiota and potentially leading to #glucoseintolerance and #inflammation. The sweet truth is that these sugar substitutes might not be as innocuous as we think. When we consume artificial sweeteners like #aspartame,…