What are some of the challenges that preterm infants face when it comes to their gut health?

Preterm infants face challenges in developing a healthy gut microbiome. Factors such as gut immaturity increased exposure to antibiotics, and limited contact with human milk contribute to reduced microbial diversity and an imbalance in their gut microbiota. This imbalance puts preterm infants at a higher risk for conditions like necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), where parts of the gut tissue can die. The delicate balance of the preterm gut microbiome makes it crucial to understand and address these challenges for the well-being of preterm infants.

What are some of the potential benefits of introducing probiotics early in newborns to establish a healthy gut microbiome?

Introducing probiotics early in newborns can have potential benefits in establishing a healthy gut microbiome. Probiotics help restore and maintain a balanced microbial composition, crucial for infant health. In preterm infants, probiotics show promise in preventing conditions like necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and obesity. They enhance gut barrier function, modulate immune responses, and have anti-inflammatory effects, benefiting newborns. However, further research and standardized clinical trials are needed to understand the optimal dosing, formulation, and safety of probiotics in newborns.