Effect of Feeding Methods on Modeling of Gut Microbiota of Infants

Abstract

There is rapid increase in the awareness of composition of microbiota in the gut and its pathogenecity and functionality.The sterile gut of the infant at birth is colonized by diverse microbiota depending upon the immediate environment.Feeding methods has an influence on the development of gut microbiota of the infants as the feeds,feeding equipment and the personnel handling the feeds form the extrinsic factors.Breast milk, being the natural feed for the infant, promotes the growth of more symbiotic bacteria and provide protection against autoimmune disorders and allergic reactions.Whereas feeding methods other than exclusive breast feeding promotes the development of microbiota which can arouse pathological effects with slight disturbances in the gut environment predisposing the infant to many illnesses which may be fatal.