A Narrative Review of Biotics and Children\'s and Adolescents\' Health

Elevkiso Konetele

Introduction

The field of biotics, encompassing probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics, has garnered considerable attention in recent years due to its potential benefits for human health, particularly in children and adolescents. This narrative review explores the impact of these biotic substances on the health and development of younger populations, summarizing current knowledge and identifying areas for future research. Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. Common probiotic strains include various species of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These beneficial microbes can colonize the gut, enhance the gut barrier function, modulate the immune system, and outcompete pathogenic organisms. Probiotics are well-known for their role in maintaining gut health. In children, they can alleviate conditions such as infant colic, diarrhea, and constipation. A notable benefit is the prevention and treatment of acute gastroenteritis. For instance, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG has been shown to reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea in children. Probiotics can modulate the immune system, potentially reducing the incidence of infections [1].

Description

Studies have shown that children who consume probiotics have a lower risk of respiratory tract infections and may experience milder symptoms when they do get sick. There is growing evidence that probiotics might help in the prevention of allergies. By influencing the gut microbiota early in life, probiotics can promote the development of a more balanced immune response, potentially reducing the risk of conditions such as eczema and asthma. The gut-brain axis suggests a connection between gut health and mental well-being. Emerging research indicates that probiotics might play a role in managing stress, anxiety, and even cognitive functions in children and adolescents, although more studies are needed in this area. Prebiotics are non-digestible food components that selectively stimulate the growth or activity of beneficial microorganisms in the gut. Common prebiotics include inulin, Fructo Oligo Saccharides (FOS), and Galacto Oligo Saccharides (GOS). Prebiotics promote the growth of beneficial bacteria such as Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli. This can lead to improved gut health and function, which is particularly important in developing children [2].

Prebiotics can enhance mineral absorption. Studies have shown that inulin and FOS can increase calcium absorption in adolescents, which is crucial for bone development during growth spurts. Like probiotics, prebiotics can modulate the immune system. They have been shown to reduce the incidence of infections and allergic reactions in children by supporting a healthy gut microbiota [3]. Prebiotics can influence metabolic health by regulating appetite and energy balance. They may help in preventing childhood obesity by promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing calorie intake. Synbiotics are combinations of probiotics and prebiotics that synergistically enhance the survival and colonization of beneficial microbes in the gut. The combination of probiotics and prebiotics can be more effective than either component alone. Synbiotics can provide more substantial improvements in gut health, immune function, and overall well-being. There is potential for synbiotics to manage or prevent chronic conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in children. By improving the gut environment, synbiotics can reduce inflammation and improve symptoms. Synbiotics can support optimal growth and development by ensuring a balanced gut microbiota, which is essential for nutrient absorption and immune function [4].

Postbiotics are non-viable bacterial products or metabolic byproducts from probiotic microorganisms that have biological activity in the host.Postbiotics offer a safer alternative to live probiotics, especially in immunocompromised children, as they do not carry the risk of infection. Postbiotics have been shown to exert anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial in managing inflammatory conditions and enhancing overall immune health. Postbiotics can strengthen the gut barrier function, reducing the risk of gut permeability and associated disorders such as leaky gut syndrome. By modulating metabolic pathways, postbiotics can help in regulating glucose and lipid metabolism, contributing to metabolic health [5].

Conclusion

The effects of probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics are often strain-specific, making it essential to identify the right combinations for specific health outcomes. Most studies on biotics have short durations. Longterm studies are needed to understand the sustained effects and safety of biotics in children and adolescents. The gut microbiota is highly individual. Personalized approaches may be necessary to achieve optimal benefits from biotics. There is a need for standardized regulatory frameworks to ensure the safety, efficacy, and quality of biotic products. Biotics hold significant potential for improving the health and well-being of children and adolescents. Probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and postbiotics each offer unique benefits that can support gut health, immune function, allergy prevention, mental health, and metabolic regulation. As research progresses, a deeper understanding of the mechanisms, optimal strains, and long-term impacts of biotics will help in developing effective strategies to harness their benefits. With continued exploration and innovation, biotics could become a cornerstone of pediatric healthcare, promoting healthier and more resilient young populations.

References

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