Intestinal Microflora and Body Mass Index in Infants
Author Information
Author(s): Vael Carl, Verhulst Stijn L, Nelen Vera, Goossens Herman, Desager Kristine N
Primary Institution: University of Antwerp
Hypothesis
The study investigates the relationship between intestinal microflora and body mass index (BMI) in infants during the first three years of life.
Conclusion
High levels of Bacteroides fragilis and low levels of Staphylococcus in infants are linked to a higher risk of obesity later in life.
Supporting Evidence
- Bacteroides fragilis concentration positively correlates with BMI SDS at 3 and 26 weeks.
- Staphylococcus concentration negatively correlates with BMI SDS at 3 and 52 weeks.
- A low Staphylococcus/Bacteroides fragilis ratio at 3 weeks is associated with higher BMI SDS.
Takeaway
This study found that the types of bacteria in babies' tummies can affect their weight as they grow up.
Methodology
The study collected fecal samples from infants at 3, 26, and 52 weeks and analyzed the relationship between bacterial concentrations and BMI SDS.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to non-responses to questionnaires and variability in measurement dates.
Limitations
The study had a high percentage of missing data for BMI SDS at various ages.
Participant Demographics
Infants recruited from maternity clinics in urban and rural Flanders, with a mean birth weight of 3.4 kg.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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