Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are emerging as one of the most important advances in infant nutrition, according to a new review from Abbott Nutrition published in Nutrients. While breastfeeding remains the gold standard, this research outlines how HMOs may help formula better replicate key benefits of human milk.

Study Overview

Researchers analyzed decades of clinical, observational, and laboratory studies to understand how different HMOs function in the body. By comparing their structures and documented effects, they identified which HMOs most strongly support digestion, immunity, and early brain development.

Key Findings

• HMOs are the third most abundant solid component of human milk and appear to exist primarily for health benefits - not calories.
• Across studies, HMOs consistently support a healthier gut, stronger intestinal barrier, and more resilient immune system.
• The authors propose a “core” group of HMOs that could help formula more closely mirror some of breastmilk’s digestive, immune, and cognitive support.

Why It Matters

This review underscores that HMOs play a meaningful biological role beyond basic nourishment. By shaping the gut and supporting immune and cognitive development, they help explain many health differences observed between breastfed and formula-fed infants. Understanding which HMOs matter most could guide future formula innovations.

Takeaways

HMOs are increasingly recognized for their broad contributions to gut and immune health.

• They help nourish beneficial gut bacteria and support smoother digestion.
• They strengthen the intestinal barrier, which may reduce common issues like constipation, gas, and general discomfort.
• They influence immune and developmental pathways early in life, highlighting the importance of gut health from infancy onward.

Read the Research: Nutrients. Multifunctional Benefits of Prevalent HMOs: Implications for Infant Health. 25 September 2021. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8539508/