Experts emphasise the importance of supporting gut health in infants during the first 1,000 days through biotics like prebiotics, probiotics, and synbiotics, with new research exploring innovative nutritional solutions tailored for children born by caesarean section.
Health in a child’s digestive tract is increasingly seen as a cornerstone of early development, especially during the first 1,000 days of life, when growth, immunity and brain development are closely linked. Media Indonesia reported that specialists regard the gut as more than a place where food is broken down and nutrients are absorbed; it is also central to the maturation of the immune system and overall well-being. Research for infant and toddler digestion similarly shows that disruption to the microbiome in this early window can have lasting effects on health.
At a media discussion titled “Global Advances and Insight on Biotics for Child Health”, Yvan Vandenplas, a paediatric gastroenterology and nutrition specialist at University Hospital Brussels, said the earliest stage of life is the most critical period for forming the gut microbiota. He said studies suggest that biotics such as prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics can help support beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. Prebiotics act as food for good bacteria and are found in fibre-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables, beans and root crops, as well as in fortified growing-up milk.
The article also highlights synbiotics, which combine prebiotics and probiotics, as a possible option for children born by caesarean section. According to the reporting, such children may be more vulnerable to microbiota imbalance, which can affect immunity and may be associated with issues such as allergies and infections. Reviews in the medical literature likewise point to the potential of pro-, pre- and synbiotics to support early gut colonisation, strengthen resistance against harmful microbes and aid child development, though experts say more evidence is still needed on the best strains, combinations and doses.
Danone Indonesia’s medical and scientific affairs director, Ray Wagiu Basrowi, said the company’s Nutricia Research unit has been developing nutrition products based on a 1:9 FOS:GOS ratio, backed by more than 40 scientific studies and 90 international publications. He said the same research platform has also explored a synbiotic formula combining FOS:GOS 1:9 with Bifidobacterium breve M16-V, which the company says may help restore beneficial bacteria faster in caesarean-born children. Healthcare nutrition director Vera Saw said the company wants to keep working with health professionals to turn scientific findings into practical nutrition support for Indonesian children.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
