Impact of early life nutrition on gut health in children: a prospective clinical study

Abstract

IntroductionThe first 1000 days of life could contribute to individual susceptibility to the later development of chronic non-communicable diseases. Nutrition in early life appears to be an important determinant factor for a sustainable child’s health. In this study, we propose to investigate the impact of exclusive breast feeding on gut health in children.Methods and analysisA prospective cohort of newborns (n=350) will be recruited at birth and followed up to 4 years of age. The main objective is to evaluate the link between exclusive breast feeding for at least 3 months and the gut health of the child at 4 years. The primary endpoint of assessment of gut health will be based on the non-invasive measurement of faecal secretory IgA (sIgA) as a sensitive biomarker of the intestinal ecosystem. The presence of gastrointestinal disorders will be defined according to the clinical criteria of Rome IV. Information on parent’s nutritional habits and life style, breastfeeding duration and child’s complementary feeding will be collected along the follow-up. Cord blood cells and plasma at birth will be purified for further analysis. The meconium and stools collected at birth, 6 months, 2 years and 4 years of age will allow sIgA analysis.Ethics and disseminationThis clinical study has obtained the approval from the national ethical committee. We plan to publish the results of the study in peer-review journals and by means of national and international conference.Trial registration numberNCT04195425.

Special Issue: The Impact of Early Life Nutrition on Gut Maturation and Later Life Gut Health

“…Furthermore, evidence suggests that a child’s susceptibility to developing chronic noncommunicable diseases later in life may also be influenced by their nutrition during the first 1000 days [ 5 ]. Therefore, ensuring adequate and appropriate nutrition during this period can have long-lasting health benefits [ 6 ]. Notably, the neonatal period is vital for the development and maturation of the gut microbiome, which can have a lasting impact on health outcomes [ 7 , 8 ].…”