A Survey-based Exploratory Study of Indian Pediatricians’ Perspectives on Constituents of Infant Formula on Infant Gut Health

Author(s):

Ajazur Rahman, Alekha Pradhan, Punit Srivastava*, Ansar Murtuza Hussain, Indranil Halder, K. Ravikumar, Krishnan Ramanathan, P. Senthil Kumar, Ranjit Bhagat and Ritesh Kumar Singh

Background: Functional Gastrointestinal Discomforts (FGIDs), including colic, regurgitation, constipation, and altered stool patterns are common concerns during early infancy and a frequent reason for parental consultations. While multiple Infant Formula (IF) brands are available in the market, robust comparative evidence of important ingredients of IF is lacking for clinical guidance in the absence of a mother’s breast milk.

Aim: To understand the knowledge and practices of HCPs pertaining to the role of IF containing specified microbiome-modulating ingredients and formulations in improving gut microbiome, gut health, and in the management of gastrointestinal disorders. Methods: This primary survey-based exploratory study was conducted using a structured questionnaire with pediatric HCPs (n=9), including five pediatricians and four neonatologists, managing over 25 infants (0-6 months) per month. Respondents were assessed based on their observations related to infant gastrointestinal symptoms, health and functional benefits of ingredients of IF and any role of formula switching.

Results: This HCP survey cited infantile colic, bloating, excessive crying, and sleep disturbances as primary reasons for the parents to sought medical advice. The respondents (9/9) mentioned the supportive role of a stable microbiome in gut comfort, and in improving nutrient absorption. The HCPs perceived the significance of synbiotics (probiotic + prebiotic) (9/9) and GOS/ FOS (7/9) as important components of gut health. HCPs also suggested that formulas containing microbiome-modulating components (L. reuteri + GOS/ FOS) may help in improving overall digestive tolerance (8/9), and in reducing colic (8/9), constipation (7/9), diarrhea (4/9), regurgitation (6/9), and crying and irritability (9/9). The use of targeted synbiotic blends, structured fats and/or wheypredominant protein profiles to facilitate digestion and improve stool consistency was also suggested by HCPs.

Conclusion: HCPs ranked synbiotics, prebiotics, and probiotics ahead of structured beta-palmitate fats for improving gut microbiota, digestive tolerance, FGIDs prevention and management and immune health in infants.