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1. An introduction to Probiotics for Crohn's and Colitis - by Peter Cartwright 2. Dysbiosis - by Dr. David Dowson 3. Manipulation of intestinal microflora with Protexin on the clinical course of diarrhoea in children 4. Probiotics for Infants and Pregnant Women - Dr. Roy Fuller 5. Probiotics In Human Medicine - by Dr. Roy Fuller |
Probiotics for Infants and Pregnant Women - Dr. Roy Fuller
During the neonatal period, the gut microflora is in a very dynamic state. The flora is changing and the body is selecting out the desirable strains which will form the characteristics, stable flora of the neonatal gut. It is important, therefore, that the infant has access to the right organisms. For this reason, probiotic supplementation during this period has great potential.
In the pregnant female the gut flora may be influenced by the stresses associated with carrying a baby and the medication which many mothers receive. Consequently (although there is not much known about this) the gut flora may become unbalanced and administration of probiotics may be indicated.
However, in both these situations it should be remembered that the immune status may be compromised and resistance even to GRAS rated organisms may not be optimal. When under natural conditions the challenge with organisms from the food and the environment is small and the immune system copes, the sudden assault by large numbers of micro-organisms, as contained in probiotic preparations may be overwhelming.
This should be borne in mind when recommending probiotics to these two groups and advice of the consumers GP should be sought before a final decision is made.
R. Fuller BSc, MSc, PhD, CBiol, FIBiol, Intestinal Microecology Consultant |
