Exploring the Effect of Probiotics on Gut Health and Immune System Development in Infants.

Abstract

Background: The health benefits of probiotics are twofold for infancy because they help establish adequate gut microbiota and they reinforce both the immune system and the gastrointestinal system. The initial colonization of microorganisms shapes digestion rates and both immune system response as well as protection against diseases. This investigation examines probiotic regulation of gut microbiota development as well as immune system functions in conjunction with their gastrointestinal health effects on infants.

Objectives: to examining the effects of probiotics on gut microbiota composition and immune system development and gastrointestinal health of infants. The analysis focuses on monitoring both beneficial bacterial populations and two immune markers (IgA and IgG) and digestive health aspects.

Study Design: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study.

Place and duration of study. Department of pediatric MTI,LRH Peshawar  from July 2020 to December 2020

Methods: This cross-sectional Study  conducted in the Department of Pediatrics at LRH MTI Peshawar from January through June 2019. Two hundred infants split into two groups formed part of this Study. Both microbial diversity of stool samples together with immune marker detection was performed through ELISA testing. The Study used SPSS 24.0 as the statistical tool to generate results where any value less than 0.05 stood as a significant indicator.

Results: Two hundred infants received equal participation in the two groups that received probiotics or had no intervention. The participants averaged 5.8 months in age ± 2.3 months. The probiotics group demonstrated increased populations of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria which reached a statistically significant level (p < 0.001) when compared to the control group. The participants in the probiotic group experienced fewer gastrointestinal issues including diarrhea along with colic. Immune function improved in patients who took probiotics because their Immunoglobulin A (IgA) levels reached 85 ± 12 mg/dL which was higher than the 70 ± 10 mg/dL measured in patients using placebo (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The supplementation of probiotics results in better gut microbiota balance and fortified immune system along with decreased gastrointestinal discomfort in infant subjects. The Study evidence supports using probiotics early in infant diets because they provide long-term health advantages. Study needs to establish the most effective combination of microorganisms and serving quantities for best results.