This publication of the Kenyan Iron Fortification (KIF) trial explores the positive impact of a prebiotic mixture of short chain galacto-oligosaccharides/long chain fructo-oligosaccharides (scGOS/lcFOS (9:1)) on both the absorption of iron and gut health in infants.
Iron deficiency anemia is highly prevalent in African infants, coupled with low absorption from iron-fortified foods and supplements. Consequently, unabsorbed iron often reaches the colon, potentially fostering the growth of iron-dependent pathogens. To counteract these effects, providing the lowest effective iron dose and supplementing with specific prebiotic fibers to protect the gut is suggested.
This KIF study aimed to investigate the impact of scGOS/lcFOS on iron absorption and gut health when added to iron-fortified infant cereal. Secondary outcomes included the dose effect of scGOS/lcFOS on gut microbiota, iron status, and inflammation markers.
Breast fed Kenyan infants (> 6 months of age) were randomly assigned to different groups receiving iron-enriched cereal and two varying doses of scGOS/lcFOS. Results showed that adding the prebiotics significantly increased by 60% iron absorption compared to meals without. After three weeks, infants in the prebiotic groups exhibited higher abundances of beneficial gut bacteria, reduced levels of potential pathogens, and lower markers of inflammation compared to the iron-only group.
Adding the prebiotics significantly increased by 60% iron absorption compared to meals without
The study concludes that incorporating specific prebiotics into iron-fortified infant cereal enhances iron absorption and mitigates adverse effects on the gut microbiome and inflammation in Kenyan infants. This breakthrough underscores a promising avenue for enhancing infant health and well-being through nutrition.
