Probiotic Transmission Between Infants

This trial aims to determine if certain probiotics can transfer between infants attending lactation support groups. The researchers are testing two types of probiotics: one with human milk oligosaccharides (HMO) and one without. They seek to discover if HMO-related bacteria, specifically Bifidobacterium longum subspecies infantis (B. longum subsp. infantis), spread more easily among infants. Mothers who plan to exclusively breastfeed their healthy, term infants and have received a COVID-19 vaccination would be ideal participants. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to enhance understanding of the natural spread of beneficial bacteria among infants.

The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does not mention any requirement to stop medications, so you likely won't have to.

Research shows that both probiotics tested in this study are safe for babies.

For the B. longum subsp. infantis probiotic, studies have found it to be well-tolerated by infants. One study found no safety issues and noted that it supported normal growth in babies. Another study showed that even a high dose was safe, with babies experiencing fewer and better-formed stools.

Regarding the L. reuteri probiotic, studies also confirm its safety in infants. Research shows no safety concerns when used in healthy babies. It has been safely used to treat colic (excessive crying) and diarrhea in infants.

Researchers are excited about these probiotic treatments for infants because they explore how beneficial bacteria can be transferred and thrive in the developing gut. Unlike traditional treatments for digestive health that often involve medication or diet changes, these treatments use specific probiotics: B. longum subsp. infantis and L. reuteri. B. infantis is unique because it consumes human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are complex sugars in breast milk, potentially enhancing its effectiveness in populating infants’ intestines. Meanwhile, L. reuteri offers another approach by promoting gut health without relying on HMOs. By testing these two different probiotics, researchers hope to discover new ways to support infant gut health naturally.

In this trial, infants will receive either B. longum subsp. infantis or L. reuteri probiotics. Research has shown that B. longum subsp. infantis can improve infant gut health by reducing harmful bacteria and lowering gut inflammation. It aids infant growth and supports a healthy gut microbiome, the community of bacteria in the gut. Studies have also found that it can reduce the risk of eczema, a skin condition.