Article details
5 min read
By Similac®
Fact Checked by Similac®
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Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex carbohydrates naturally occurring in human breast milk, crucial for infant development.
HMOs support immune functions, brain development, and contribute to a healthy gut environment, mirroring benefits seen in breastfed infants.
Similac includes five key HMOs, enhancing its formula to provide closer nutrition to natural breast milk and supporting critical development stages.
Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a unique group of complex carbohydrates that are abundantly present in human breast milk. HMOs are the third most abundant solid component in breast milk after lactose and lipids. They are not digestible by infants but play a crucial role in their overall health and development.
What is an HMO's Job?
HMOs have several important functions:
The New Addition of 5 HMOs to Similac
Similac has recently enhanced its formula with the addition of five specific HMOs, which include:
Why It Matters
The inclusion of these five HMOs in Similac represents a significant advancement in infant nutrition. By mimicking the functional benefits of HMOs found in human breast milk, Similac is able to provide formula-fed infants with crucial health benefits that were previously only available through breastfeeding.
HMO and Its Impact on Immunity, Brain Development, and Gut Health
Immunity
HMOs play a critical role in developing and supporting the infant’s immune system. They help protect against infections by acting as decoys that prevent harmful pathogens from binding to the gut wall. By fostering a healthy gut microbiome, HMOs further strengthen the immune response.
Brain Development
Research indicates that HMOs like 3’-SL and 6’-SL are involved in cognitive development. They support the gut-brain axis, a communication network that links the gut and the brain, thus influencing brain function and development.
Gut Health
A healthy gut is foundational to overall health, and HMOs significantly contribute to gut health. They act as food for beneficial bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome. This not only aids digestion but also supports the immune system and brain development.
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