According to the researchers, the composition of microbes living in the intestine in the second year of life is related to the body mass index (BMI) measured at the age of 12, the Science Daily news portal reported.
The bimonthly BMI (height divided by the square of body weight) was not significantly higher in children who were later overweight or obese, suggesting that the intestinal flora composition may be the earliest warning sign of overweight.
"If further research confirms our results, the composition of the intestinal flora can play an important role in early screening for the risk of obesity in children, when they are not overweight," said Maggie Stanislawski, PhD student at the University of Colorado, research participant.
The researchers analyzed data from 165 small children who had their BMI numbers at the age of 12. The data come from a large-scale Norwegian survey.
The Norwegian survey started in 2002, with about 550 children taking part, today teens. Pregnant women were asked to attend the hospital after delivery. At the age of twelve, 20 percent of children were overweight or obese.
The scientists compared their 12-year-old BMI with their intestinal flora, which was taken six times: four and ten days, then one and four months, finally one and two years.
The researchers found a correlation between the age of 12, gender and age-modified BMI and the tenfold and biannual gut flora composition.
"There was a stronger correlation at the same time than in the previous samples, but it was strongest at two years. Children who later lived did not show any other sign at biennial age either. they fed the kids, "said Stanislawski.
He stressed that the good intestinal flora composition of the children could be supported by the parents if they offered him a balanced diet consisting of a variety of vegetables and fibers.
(Source: marmalade.co.uk; MTI | Picture: pixabay.com)