Experts in Bali highlight the critical importance of early nutrition and gut health, with new approaches to allergy management and iron deficiency aiming to optimise child development within the first two years of life.
Children’s health in the first 1,000 days of life remains one of the most important determinants of later development, with doctors in Bali warning that gut health, allergy management and iron deficiency all deserve closer attention. At a scientific forum organised by the Indonesian Paediatric Society, specialists said the early period from conception to age 2 is especially critical because nutrition and disease in that window can shape immunity, cognition and long-term growth.
Taruna Ikrar, head of Indonesia’s food and drug regulator, said the 1,000-day window is decisive for a child’s future health, intelligence and productivity, pointing to the role of nutrition and neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections. He also highlighted the growing scientific focus on the gut-brain axis, the two-way relationship between the digestive system and the brain, and said a healthy balance of intestinal microbes can support immunity and early brain maturation.
That view was echoed by Yvan Vandenplas of UZ Brussel, who said gut microbiota are central to nutrient absorption, immune development and growth. The specialists said prebiotics, probiotics and synbiotics may help maintain that balance by feeding beneficial bacteria or introducing helpful strains, with a particular focus on infants born by caesarean section, who may develop a different microbial profile from babies delivered vaginally. The forum cited clinical work on a synbiotic blend of FOS:GOS 1:9 with Bifidobacterium breve M16-V, saying it helped restore beneficial bacteria faster in some caesarean-born children.
The discussion also turned to cow’s milk protein allergy, which can be missed or diagnosed late, delaying treatment and affecting growth. Zakiudin Munasir, an Indonesian allergy and immunology specialist, said partially hydrolysed formula is not recommended for children already diagnosed with cow’s milk allergy, though it may have a role in prevention or in non-allergic digestive complaints. He said extensively hydrolysed formula is generally the first choice for mild to moderate cases, while amino acid formula is used in severe allergy. Soy-based formula may be considered in some mild to moderate cases, depending on cost, taste and clinical evidence.
Iron deficiency and iron-deficiency anaemia were described as another hidden threat. Rini Sekartini said iron is vital for nervous system development and that deficiency can impair concentration and memory, especially in children older than 5. She cited findings from the South East Asian Nutrition Survey II in Indonesia showing average iron intake among children at 65.8% of the recommended level. Sekartini urged earlier screening, including haemoglobin checks and dietary review, and said fortified growing-up milk can be one practical option when used on clinical advice.
The summit, held from August 7 to 9 in Nusa Dua, brought together paediatric experts from several countries to discuss precision nutrition, allergy care and early detection of micronutrient deficiencies. Piprim Basarah Yanuarso, who chairs the Indonesian Paediatric Society, said the aim was to turn scientific progress into better care for Indonesian children and to strengthen research-based practice across the region.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
