Probiotics Linked to Fewer Deaths in Babies Born Prematurely
Summary
A new study from Sweden found that giving probiotics to very premature babies helped reduce the chances of severe bowel disease and death. The research looked at babies born between 28 and 31 weeks and showed fewer cases of a serious intestinal illness called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in those who received probiotics.Key Facts
- The study was done by the Karolinska Institutet in Sweden and published in JAMA Network Open.
- Probiotics are supplements that support healthy gut bacteria.
- Babies given probiotics had much lower rates of severe NEC needing surgery (1 case) compared to those without probiotics (40 cases).
- The study compared outcomes before and after probiotics were introduced in Sweden’s neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
- NEC is a dangerous condition where the intestine becomes inflamed and can lead to death.
- No cases of probiotic-related infections were reported in the treated babies.
- The study was observational, so it cannot prove probiotics directly caused the benefits.
- A large ongoing trial is testing probiotics in even earlier premature babies (before 28 weeks).
- Experts advise parents to discuss probiotic use with doctors since over-the-counter probiotics are not safe for premature infants.
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