In the Czech Republic, Abbott researchers presented data that further supports the importance of human milk oligosaccharides in supporting the immune system of formula-fed babies. They found that 2′-fucosyllactose, the most abundant HMO found in breast milk, modifies the profile of the bacteria in the digestive systems of formula-fed babies, increasing beneficial species such as Bifidobacteria and boosting favorable bacterial activity in the intestine.
In the first year of life, a baby is colonized by over a thousand different bacteria species and babies who are breast fed often have stronger developing immune systems; in part due to HMOs, special complex carbohydrates that are the third most abundant solid component of breast milk. In order to exert these beneficial effects, 2′-FL needs to be modified by bacteria in the gut first.
Previously published Abbott research demonstrates that babies fed infant formula with HMO have an immune response more like breastfed babies.