A recent review has highlighted the potential of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which are naturally occurring in human breast milk, in preventing and managing food allergies, particularly in infants.
The first 1000 days of an infant’s life is a critical window for immune development and nutrient absorption. Accordingly, HMOs have been regarded as an ideal nutrient component for babies during this phase, which could enhance the immunomodulatory capacity to inhibit the progress of food allergies.
HMOs help reduce the risk of food allergies developing by modifying the gut microbiota and increasing levels of short-chain fatty acids, which play a role in reducing allergic responses. They also improve intestinal health and help regulate immune responses by influencing T helper and regulatory T cells, which are crucial in combating inflammation related to allergies.
The amount and composition of HMOs are determined by the lactating mother, whose genetic background and geographical differences introduce wide variability in HMO profiles. However, research to-date suggests HMOs could be incorporated into infant formulas or other products to decrease the risk of development of food allergy in children. Understanding the role of gut microbiota and HMOs in managing allergies opens up new avenues for product innovation, catering to the growing demand for functional foods aimed at allergy prevention and gut health improvement.
Reference: Chen, et al., 2024. Human milk oligosaccharides in preventing food allergy: A review through gut microbiota and immune regulation. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 278(Part 2), p.134868. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134868
