HMOs: The key to strengthening child health
Abbott Unveils Results from Its Latest Clinical Study at the 57th Annual Congress of the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition (ESPGHAN).
The findings confirm the positive impact of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) at concentrations similar to those found in breast milk, supporting growth, gastrointestinal tolerance, immune function, and overall child health.
The Impact of Breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding, widely recognized as the gold standard for infant nutrition, provides key nutrients and unique bioactive components, such as HMOs, which are crucial for digestive health and the immune system.
However, factors such as time constraints and difficulties with exclusive breastfeeding force many parents, especially in Latin America, to turn to alternative nutritional solutions during the early months of life.
In Colombia, for example, only 36% of infants receive exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life.
Oligosaccharides and Their Benefits.
HMOs, which were only identified 30 years ago as an essential component of breast milk, are a type of prebiotic that promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, thus improving overall health.
Dr. Claudia Sánchez, Medical Director at Abbott, remarks:
“Research has shown that HMOs can support gut health, the immune system, and cognitive development. This is why Abbott was the first company to add HMOs to infant formula in 2017. The results presented in Abbott’s most recent clinical study demonstrate the impact of supporting the developing immune system through proper nutrition.”
Results from the Clinical Study.
The randomized controlled trial involved 607 healthy, full-term infants during their first 24 months of life.
Participants were randomly assigned to receive a nutritional formula containing five HMOs or a formula without HMOs. Researchers closely monitored their growth, tolerance, and other health indicators.
During the ESPGHAN Congress, researchers presented data highlighting the immunological benefits of HMOs.
The results showed that children consuming the formula with HMOs had, compared to those consuming a formula without HMOs:
– 40% fewer non-routine medical visits.
– 3.4 fewer days of illness-related absence.
HMOs work in the gut, where 70% of the body’s immune system is located, nourishing beneficial bacteria.
Furthermore, some of these oligosaccharides are absorbed into the bloodstream, promoting immune system development beyond the gut.
The presentation of the results at the ESPGHAN Congress allowed pediatric healthcare professionals to access the latest scientific evidence, providing key insights to enhance care standards for the youngest patients.
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