Maternal diet shapes infant microbiota and defensive capacity against infections in early life via differential breast milk composition
Maternal nutritional status and dietary composition during pregnancy, lactation, and early life stages have short- and long-term impacts on offspring health. However, the exact mechanisms of these effects are not yet fully understood. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of maternal diet on the health of offspring by examining the association between maternal diet, immune components of breast milk, neonatal gut microbiota, and incidence of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. Two approaches were used: a clinical observational study and a preclinical interventional study using a neonatal rat model of rotavirus-induced gastroenteritis. The findings in both approaches demonstrated that a maternal diet rich in plant-based protein and fiber, as well as in polyunsaturated fatty acids, was linked to reduced incidence and severity of infections in offspring and beneficial modulation of the gut microbiota and immune system. These results strengthen the importance of maternal diet during pregnancy and lactation towards supporting infant health.