For the first time prebiotics lowered the risk atopic dermatitis in a high-risk population of infants.

More than 200 infants at risk for atopy (an allergy involving an inherited immunoglobulin of the IgE type) took part in the study. Those on bottle-feeding were randomly assigned to a prebiotic formula (a mixture of galacto- and long chain fructo-oligosaccharides) or maltodextrine as placebo.

• Significantly fewer infants given the prebiotic developed atopic dermatitis
• Diet had no effect on the severity of the dermatitis
• Prebiotic supplements were associated with fecal bifidobacteria counts
• But there was no difference in lactobacilli counts

The investigators proposed that oligosaccharides affect immune development by altering bowel flora. Prebiotics might have a role in primary allergy prevention during infancy.

The distinguishing characteristics of prebiotics compared to probiotics and synbiotics were discussed here earlier.

10/20/06 23:02 JR