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New research: Babies are exposed to human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) early in pregnancy — from as early as 14 weeks’ gestation
QUICK SUMMARY: New research finds that babies developing in the womb are exposed to human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) LONG BEFORE birth — HMOs have just been found in amniotic fluid as early as 14 weeks’ gestation. The extensive contact with a broad variety of HMOs during pregnancy suggests HMOs may play a role in fetal tissue development.
For those interested in the science of pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding — this is a fascinating new discovery about human milk oligosaccharides…
What are human milk oligosaccharides?
Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex carbohydrates that are highly abundant in human breast milk.
After the baby is born, the HMOs in breast milk provide food for the beneficial microbes transferred from the mother during birth and breastfeeding.
This helps ensures beneficial microbes quickly colonise the infant gut microbiome, crowding out pathogens. This ensures the right beneficial microbes are present to optimally train the infant immune system, helping protect the baby’s future health.
