Global Advances in Pediatric Nutrition

HMO for Gut Health, Immunity, & Beyond

In this video, Dr Mezoff reviews the history and biology of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), the third most abundant solid component of human milk. HMOs have long been considered the “bifidus factor” that contributes to selective growth of beneficial bacteria in the infant gut. Beyond prebiotic activity, a wealth of studies published in the past 15 years has shed light on new roles for HMOs, including bacteriostatic activity toward pathogenic gut bacteria and immunomodulation of both gut immune cells and circulating immune cells. Dr Mezoff provides rationale for focus on the most prevalent HMO in most mothers’ milk—2′-fucosyllactose (2′-FL). He reviews preclinical studies, clinical epidemiology, and clinical trial data that support the beneficial impact of specifically 2′-FL HMO on infant gut, immune, and brain health.

Role of Nutrition in Linear Growth Regulation

Prof Millward reviews the current knowledge on the role of nutrition in linear growth regulation for improved childhood growth and increased adult height. In catch-up growth, children that have recovered from malnutrition grow very rapidly in weight, but only until they achieve their weight for height at which their appetite is normalized and allows them to eat and grow at the normal growth trajectory. He further discusses the role of cow’s milk in supporting childhood growth across the globe.

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IMPORTANT NOTICE: Breastfeeding is best for babies and is recommended for as long as possible during infancy.