Does gut microbiome associate with the growth of infants? A review of the literature

Abstract

Objective

This review addressed recent knowledge about the association of the infant gut microbiome with postnatal growth.

Methods

This was a narrative review using sources from Medline and Scopus databases. The key terms such as microbiome ((infant gut microbiome OR gut microbiota OR intestinal microbiome OR intestinal microbiota) AND growth (stunting OR growth faltering OR growth impairment OR malnutrition OR malnourished)) were used. From 51 studies identified in the search stage, 13 studies are eligible for inclusion in this review.

Results

The included studies demonstrate the potential pathways of the gut microbiome in relation to growth. Microbiota in neonate's gut may have the ability to regulate somatotropic axis activity that can maintain growth, inducing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) production. Besides, the gut microbiota is the key to increasing nutrients absorption that is essential to support tissue formations. Microbes in the intestine can also interact with the host's immune system protecting the barrier system to defend against the invasion of the pathogenic bacteria from the outside environment.

Conclusions

Microbes–host interactions may have a potential association with postnatal growth, although studies showing the causality are limited. Further studies observing the effect of the gut microbial colonization on infant growth is necessary.