Paediatricians play a key role in preventing early harmful events that could permanently influence the development of the gut microbiota in childhood

Abstract

Aim: The development of the gut microbiota occurs primarily during infancy, and growing evidence has emphasised its positive role and implications for human health. The aim of this review was to provide essential knowledge about the gut microbiota and to describe and highlight the importance of the factors that influence the gut microbiota in early life and their potential harmful effects later in life.

Gut microbiota is a hot and fast‐moving topic, and paediatricians need to monitor the latest developments

“…Goulet et al's paper summarises the indications for using specific probiotics, but not probiotics in general . This is in line with the current view that the health effects of probiotics seem to be strain specific.…”

“…In this issue of Acta Paediatrica, Goulet et al summarise current knowledge on early events that could affect the development of the gut microbiota. The paper, on behalf of the European Paediatric Association, states that paediatricians play a key role in preventing early harmful events that could permanently influence the development of the gut microbiota in childhood.…”

“…There is much less evidence on the efficacy and safety of prebiotics than probiotics, and Goulet et al did not summarise the indications for their use. However, the concept of prebiotic administration is very attractive, particularly when there are concerns with regard to the administration of live microorganisms (probiotics), with the potential risk of infection or transfer of antibiotic resistance genes.…”

“…There are ongoing discussions about the term synbiotic. In principle, this term, as defined by Goulet et al, refers to a product that includes both a probiotic and a prebiotic. Goulet et al describe how synbiotics may act, for example by improving the viability of probiotic microorganisms and increasing levels of substances such as short‐chain fatty acids and ketones.…”

“…There is even less agreement about the definitions of the terms postbiotics and paraprobiotics. Although Goulet et al define and describe the actions of these products, these definitions are likely to be modified in the future. The ISAPP has started working on this as well.…”