Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs)

Human milk is so much more than nutritional enrichment for infants and growing toddlers. It provides numerous bioactive components supporting age‐appropriate development and immune protection. Meaning that the properties of breastmilk are living organisms that promote brain development and support immunity, especially through gut health. Human milk is largely made up of a few macronutrients: fat, carbohydrates, protein, and human milk oligosaccharides.

Naturally, as parents, we constantly seek ways to enhance the health and well-being of our infants. Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are prebiotics specific to human milk, meaning they serve as nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria. By enriching the intestinal flora, HMOs promote the growth of beneficial bacteria while inhibiting harmful pathogens. This interaction between HMOs and gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in immune system development, aiding infants in their defense against infections and diseases. 70-80% of immune cells are found in the gut. Additionally, HMOs have shown remarkable anti-inflammatory properties, reducing the risk of allergies and autoimmune disorders later in life. What is even more fascinating is that based on the mom’s regional and genetic background the quantity and type of these prebiotics vary.

Gut & Brain Connection

Research suggests that HMOs contribute to brain development and cognition. Studies have shown that certain HMOs serve as building blocks for the development of neural pathways. By nourishing the brain during critical periods of growth, HMOs have the potential to enhance cognitive function and support long-term neurological health in infants. These complex sugars vary widely in composition among women, and even in the same woman at different times. This fascinating diversity allows infants to receive custom-tailored nutrition that aligns with their specific needs through lactation. By adapting the composition of breast milk to each infant, HMOs epitomize the individualized care required for optimal growth and development.

Synthetic Replication

Formula companies have proposed that HMOs can be replicated synthetically and added to their products and are equivalent to breastfeeding. The intricate makeup of the over 200 HMOs found in breast milk cannot be fully replicated in a laboratory setting. These found in breastmilk are better suited for infants and are a greater fuel for the developing microbiota in infants. Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) and Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are often added to formula to stimulate Bifidobacteria, which is great. However, FOS and GOS can also stimulate the growth of other bacteria in the gut that may shift the microbiome of infants to that more similar to an adult’s.

Other Benefits

For the trillions of microorganisms and bacteria found within the human body, the question may arise of what is the best way to have a balanced system. HMOs also act as decoy receptors, preventing harmful bacteria from adhering to the intestinal wall. By doing so, they protect infants from potential infections and promote a healthy digestive system. Our bodies absorb nutrients based on the condition of our gut flora. This unique mechanism of action sets HMOs apart from other nutrients, making them an invaluable component of breast milk.

Human milk may not be the first choice for every family. At Innovations Family Wellness in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we recognize the benefits that HMOs provide families and strive to educate and support the community as well. We strive to ensure that the first food for infants is one that promotes healthy guts and healthy development for ushering in a healthier generation.

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7019891/

Written by: T’Kia Walterscheid IBCLC, CLC, Doula