Children's growth and the microbiota
It has been determined that there is a close relationship between the delayed growth of malnourished children and the alteration of their microbiota.
In today's world, the number of children with stunted growth due to malnutrition is alarming. The 2020 World Nutrition Report reported that almost a quarter of all children under five suffer from stunted growth. It is known that the first 1,000 days of life are crucial for growth control, as any growth delays after this period cannot be reversed and often persist into adulthood.
Scientific studies conducted on cases of malnutrition have found a relationship between malnutrition, reduced microbial diversity, and delayed microbiota maturation. Research has shown that treating growth retardation with refeeding therapies containing adequate nutrients is not enough to achieve full recovery. However, the application of therapies that promote maturation and increase microbiota diversity, in conjunction with refeeding therapies, can ensure growth recovery in malnourished children. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that oligosaccharides in breast milk act as prebiotics that contribute to the intestinal microbial colonization of the infant, increasing probiotics such as Bifidobacterium spp., which promote growth and strengthen the immune system.
Because the mother provides the newborn's microbiota, maintaining a healthy microbiota in the mother during pregnancy is a strategy that promotes the child's growth and proper development.
Reference
De Vadder, F., Joly, A., & Leulier, F. (2021). Microbial and nutritional influence on endocrine control of growth, Journal of Molecular Endocrinology , 66 (3), R67-R73. Retrieved May 31, 202.