TOH edition: Friday, 16 October 2026 · Health & Medicine
Fewer sick days could be possible for formula-fed babies: a probiotic trial found fewer infections and faster recovery
Reported by New Scientist
Publisher date:
In a randomised trial involving 223 formula-fed infants in Manila, 23 per cent receiving a supplement had parent-reported respiratory infections, compared with 40 per cent receiving formula alone. Babies receiving the supplement also recovered a few days faster on average, although larger, longer trials are needed to establish its broader benefits and possible risks.
The findings suggest a way to help protect formula-fed babies from respiratory illness, while leaving longer-term immune effects and safety to be established.
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