Abstract
The intestinal microbiota is a relevant aspect of human health. Human microbial colonization begins prior to birth, in utero and continues to develop, and microbial diversity increases and converges toward an adult-like microbiota by the end of the first 3–5 years of life. Perinatal factors play a significant role in microbial colonization, such as mode of delivery, diet (breastfeeding or formula), genetics, and intestinal mucin glycosylation. Once established, the intestinal microbiota composition is relatively stable, throughout adult life, although it can be altered by bacterial infections, antibiotic treatments, lifestyle, stress, surgery, through dietary choices and strenuous exercise. Early-life microbiota development is a significant factor in predisposition to many inflammatory-related diseases, such as inflammatory bowel diseases, metabolic diseases related to obesity, and allergic responses, such as asthma. This chapter reviews the impact of factors affecting microbiota development and its influence on human health throughout life.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
