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Effects of maternal probiotic supplementation on breast milk microbiome and infant gut microbiome and health: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Impact of maternal probiotic intake on breast milk and infant gut microbiota
The early development of the infant microbiome, particularly during the perinatal period, plays a vital role in long-term health. This process is heavily influenced by interactions between the mother’s and infant’s microbiomes, with breast milk acting as a key medium. Because the composition of breast milk microbiota depends on the mother’s gut microbiome, it may be possible to influence it through oral probiotic supplementation. This systematic review and meta-analysis by Alemu et al. (2023) aimed to assess the impact of maternal probiotic intake on breast milk and infant gut microbiota, as well as on infant health outcomes. Researchers searched databases including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, CINAHL, and Science Direct up to December 15, 2022. The review included randomized controlled trials that examined pregnant or breastfeeding women given probiotics, compared to placebo or follow-up groups. The outcomes measured were changes in the microbiome of breast milk and infant gut, and indicators of infant health. A total of 24 randomized trials involving 2,761 mothers and 1,756 infants were included. Maternal probiotics increased beneficial bacteria detection in breast milk by 24%. There was a significant rise in beneficial bacteria and a decrease in harmful bacteria in milk. Similarly, beneficial bacteria increased in the infant’s gut. Probiotics also helped regulate infant weight gain and reduced the incidence of infant colic. Maternal probiotic supplementation positively influences both breast milk and infant gut microbiomes, providing multiple clinical benefits without safety concerns. Specific strains such as Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus thermophilus, and S. boulardii are recommended to support infant health. [NPID: Breastfeeding, breast milk microbiome, gut microbiome, maternal-infant health, probiotics, randomized controlled trials, systematic review, meta-analysis]
Year: 2023
