New research suggests that boosting the gut microbiome may play a important role in treating severe malnutrition in children. A study carry out in Bangladesh by Jeffrey Gordon of Washington University and Tahmeed Ahmed of the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research focused on children aged 12 to 18 months.
These children, suffering from severe malnutrition, were treat with a supplement design to nurture their gut microbiome.
The supplement contain ingredients like chickpea, banana, and peanut flour, which promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.
This study involve 124 children who had been admit to hospitals due to severe malnutrition.
After receiving treatment to address any infections, they were divide into 2 groups:
First group receive the microbiome-focus supplement, while the second was given traditional ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUFs).
The findings reveal that those receiving the microbiome supplement gain weight more rapidly and show improve levels of proteins essential for the development of their muscles, bones, and brain.
In previous studies, it was establish that malnourishe children had underdeveloped gut microbiomes, lacking the variety of beneficial bacteria found in healthy children.
By administering target nutritional supplements, researchers hope to restore the gut microbiome’s balance, which is crucial for overall health and development.
The implications of this research are significant.
If proven effective on a larger scale, this microbiome-direct approach could revolutionise malnutrition treatment, addressing not only immediate nutritional needs but also promoting long-term health benefits.
The World Health Organisation has initiate a trial across multiple countries to assess the effectiveness of these supplements in different cultural and dietary contexts.
This innovative approach may offer a sustainable solution to malnutrition, potentially benefitting millions of children around worldwide.
