We know there are a lot of things to focus on when you have a newborn…

“When’s their next nap?…”

“How long since they last fed?…”

“Is that nappy full?…”

“Will I get to sleep through the night ever again?!…”

…And we’re not here to add another stress to the so-called ‘pile’, but, as we always say, knowledge is power…and we’ve got information to share with you about why your bub’s developing gut microbiome is so so so important to consider in those first two years of life…

Infant Gut Microbiomes Shift and Develop Rapidly 

Every human gut microbiome is somewhat adaptable, influenced by things like diet, lifestyle and stress…but an infant’s gut microbiome is even more unstable and variable! In the first two years of life, your baby’s gut microbiome will undergo huge shifts in composition and diversity, before settling into a more ‘adult-like’ gut microbiome between the ages of two and three.

The way you give birth, whether or not you breastfeed, the types of foods you introduce in these years, environmental exposures, and even whether or not you have a furry pet, will all influence the composition of your baby’s gut microbiome.

Why Does it Matter?

This early colonisation of microbes in the gut is crucial for the natural development of your baby’s immune system and intestine. Any imbalances during these first 2-3 years have been linked with chronic immune-related disease, such as asthma, eczema, food allergies, and even diabetes!

Want to Learn More?

We have an online course, ‘Healthy Gut, Healthier Baby’, which discusses the importance of the gut microbiome for the developing immune system and future health of your baby. Find out what influences your bub’s gut microbiome development, how you can optimise this time, and the types of options you have if your plans (eg birth plan or breastfeeding) don’t all work out.