Probiotic Care Supports Healthy Outcomes for Mother and Infant

A team of researchers that investigated more than 960 studies of probiotic effects on maternity health and lactation concluded, “Recent evidence indicates that maternal-dietary intake, including dietary supplements, during pregnancy and lactation [has] implications for health outcomes in both the mother and infant.”1 Research from 967 studies with 29 randomized control trials, investigated the effects of probiotic, vitamin D, and lipid-based nutrient supplements on mother and infant gut microbiota. The data from these studies support significant reduction in mastitis of the nursing mother and increased bacterial diversity in the infant gut.2

Hereditum® LC40® Breastcare is a probiotic derived from breastmilk of healthy mothers. This probiotic is clinically supported to reduce occurrence of mastitis by 51% and a 66% reduction in recurrence. LC40® offers an effective alternative to the use of commonly prescribed antibiotics during lactation.3

Studies show breast milk is the best nutritional source for infants because it provides a unique combination of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, minerals and vitamins. In addition the bioactive agents, and probiotic bacteria are responsible for a wide range of beneficial effects such as the promotion of immune system maturation and the protection against infections.4 A study conducted in New Zealand demonstrated that supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus was associated with a significantly reduced risk of eczema in high-risk infants.5 Studies continue to support the benefits of probiotics for mother and infant.

Fiber the Nutrient of Concern

Although the mechanism for fiber’s health benefits is still not fully understood, studies demonstrate its value in supporting “digestive health and reduced risk for heart disease, stroke, hypertension, certain gastrointestinal disorders, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.”1

Although fiber in the form of intrinsic and functional, is found to have significant health benefits, an estimated 95% of American adults and children do not consume the recommended amounts of fiber.2 This gap in fiber consumption compared to the recommended intake has been identified by Dietary Guidelines for Americans as a “nutrient of concern.”3 

The probiotic formulation of MegaDuo™ contains Bacillus Coagulans SC208 and Bacillus Subtilis HU58. This Bacillus combination demonstrated reduced gut membrane barrier damage and decreased levels of the two cytokines TNFα and IL-6.44 These cytokines in high levels may lead to harmful gut inflammation. The potential benefits of MegaDuo™ were most evident after 2 weeks of treatment.

Research surveys indicate many people understand the importance and benefits of fiber in their diets, however the gap continues. This demonstrates the need for efficacious easy to consume supplements to support digestive health.

Source: Dysbiosis in An M-SHIME® Model”  Microorganisms: 2020 Jul 11; 8(7).

Digestive Health an Important Trend

Canada revealed about 13,322 deaths in 2020 were attributed to digestive disease.1 Digestive health is no longer a trend, it has become a mainstream health concern.2 New scientific research and studies have increased consumer awareness of the role of digestive health in their overall health and wellbeing. 

The global digestive health market is projected to grow 8.2% CAGR by 2032 to reach over 104 billion USD.3 North America holds the highest market share for digestive supplements at 34%. However, with global government initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles, the fastest growing markets are projected to be Japan, India and China.4

A recent survey reported that 85% of global consumers have taken steps to improve their digestive health.5  These changes include improving their diets with 43% identifying the addition of a daily probiotic. Most consumers are using a capsule; however more than 50% prefer a food or drink format.6 

Science supports utilizing pre, pro, and post biotics for improving overall health. By introducing a convenient and efficacious biotic system to consumers is a way to increase market share in this growing segment. Understanding the consumer demand and preferences Plant Science continues to research and develop efficacious supplements that support digestive health.  

Plant Science has an experienced R&D team ready to develop custom formulations for your company. The Plant Science proprietary system that combines research and development with manufacturing is designed to reduce time-to-market.  This process makes delivery available for new and custom products in as little as six weeks.