Pregnancy is a complex and delicate process, in which the health and well-being of the fetus depends largely on the health and well-being of the mother. An important and often neglected aspect of maternal health is the health of the Gut (gut microbiota) – the community of bacteria that lives in our intestines.
For a long time, it was believed that the human fetal environment was completely sterile and that the newborn acquires its microbiome exclusively during and after birth. This theory, known as the “sterile uterus paradigm,” has been the foundation of many studies and clinical practices. However, advances in molecular technologies have allowed the detection of bacterial DNA in placenta, amniotic fluid, and meconium samples taken from healthy pregnancies. These findings have generated a wave of research and debate in the scientific community, with some researchers arguing that the microbiome is actually acquired in the uterus, contrary to traditional dogma.
What is the gut microbiota and why is it important?
The gut microbiota is a complex community of microorganisms, mainly bacteria, that live in our intestines. These microorganisms help us digest food, synthesize vitamins, protect against pathogens, and strengthen the immune system. During pregnancy, the mother's gut microbiota changes to meet the increased needs of her body and the developing fetus.
The maternal gut microbiota is involved in multiple essential physiological processes, including digestion, vitamin synthesis, and protection against pathogens. A healthy balance of it contributes to robust immunity, the prevention of inflammation, and the provision of an optimal environment for fetal development.
What is the Impact of the Mother's Microbiota Health on the Child?
Immune System Development
A balanced gut microbiota in the mother helps strengthen the child's immune system, reducing the risk of allergies, eczema, and other autoimmune conditions. Studies show that high microbial diversity is associated with a better immune response and increased resistance to infections.
Prevention of Metabolic Diseases
The health of the maternal microbiota can influence the child's risk of developing metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes. Beneficial bacteria play an important role in metabolizing nutrients and regulating body weight. A healthy maternal microbiota can contribute to a healthy weight in the child in the long term.
Brain Function and Neurobehavioral Development
Recent research suggests that the gut microbiota may also influence the brain and behavioral development of the child. The two-way communication between the gut and the brain, known as the Gut-Brain Axis, can affect mood, behavior, and cognitive function. Thus, a healthy microbiota in the mother may have long-term benefits on the mental and cognitive health of the child.
Breastfeeding and Gut Microbiota
Breast milk is essential for the development of a healthy gut microbiome in the newborn. It contains not only essential nutrients, but also probiotics and prebiotics that promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the baby's gut. A mother with a healthy gut microbiota can thus transmit the microorganisms necessary for optimal colonization, contributing to the prevention of infections and the development of a strong immune system.
By maintaining a balanced and diverse microbiota, the mother can give her child an optimal start in life, supporting the development of a robust immune system and preventing numerous health problems.
Factors influencing maternal gut microbiota
Maternal obesity: May alter microbiota composition and may have
negative effects on fetal development.
Diet: A less balanced diet that lacks probiotics and prebiotics can affect the health of the microbiota.
Stress and depression: They can negatively influence the intestinal microbiota and, implicitly, the health of the mother and fetus.
Infections and medications: Certain infections and medications can disrupt the balance of the microbiota.
The health of the mother's gut microbiota is vital for a healthy pregnancy and optimal fetal development. Expectant mothers should pay special attention to their diet and overall health to ensure the most beneficial environment for their child's development. By maintaining a balanced microbiota, mothers can contribute to the long-term health of their children.
Sources:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0306987715000122?via%3Dihub
https://microbiomejournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s40168-017-0268-4/figures/1
