International research reinforces the importance of Probiotics in a child's nutrition for immune protection
More than 400 pediatricians in Jeddah, Riyadh and Dubai recently attended an international lecture on Probiotics, their implications on advancement in pediatric nutrition and role in immune protection. The lecture was hosted by Nestlé Nutrition, as part of their continuous efforts to bring the latest in international nutritional science to health professionals in the region.
Presenting her research on the topic was Prof. Erika Isolauri, the widely known researcher in the field of Pediatrics and author of 343 scientific publications, with an established expertise in the areas of Nutrition and Immunology.
According to Prof. Isolauri, the role of diet in health has changed as the scientific knowledge increased. Her research is based predominantly on how Probiotics help boost children's natural body defenses.
Probiotics which literally means "Pro Life" are living cultures used in food, offering digestive system and immune benefits to the body. The role of Probiotics is important in a child's initial life for immune protection and healthy digestive system, as per Prof. Isolauri. This is confirmed by the latest scientific research showing presence of Probiotics in breast milk.
"Probiotics in early nutrition have been demonstrated to help reinforce a naturally sound immune system and also reduces the risk of allergic diseases which may manifest in early age as skin rash, asthma or in extreme cases vomiting. Probiotics help the digestive tract stop harmful bacteria and further boosts natural defenses by stimulating intestinal immune responses," Prof. Isolauri explained.
As the child grows up and starts to interact more with his surroundings, he is more exposed to harmful bacteria and viruses. It is important to help him naturally maintain strong immune functions by including Probiotics in his diet. Daily intake of foods that contain Probiotics is recommended by experts to help maintain the healthy balance of digestive system, and hence maintain their effective protective functions.
Future Probiotic research will continue to look into better nutritional management and risk reduction of allergic disease, according to Prof. Isolauri. There is good scientific proof of the effect of Probiotics on boosting natural immunity, and therefore it is important to include foods that contain these important nutrients in the daily diet of children at an early age to help maintain their strong natural body defenses, and thus reduce the risks of allergic diseases.
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About Nestlé:
For over 140 years, Nestlé has been applying its nutrition expertise in the development of products that contribute to the health and wellness of consumers, evolving into the world's foremost Nutrition, Health and Wellness company. Headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, Nestlé currently employs over 275,000 people in 481 factories and operations in almost every country around the globe.
"Good Food, Good Life" is the foundational philosophy upon which Nestlé continues to build an ever-increasing portfolio of quality brands that not only deliver on great taste, but on nutritional value as well. To that end, the company invests around USD 1.5 billion in research and development alone, every year.
Nestlé's portfolio of products includes Infant Nutrition, Milks, Soups, Bottled Water, Confectionery, Coffee, Beverage Creamers, Culinary and Breakfast Cereals.
About Nestlé Middle East:
Following nearly 70 years of success and heritage since its first Middle East operation in Lebanon in the early 1930s, Nestlé Middle East was founded in 1997 in Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai, and now serves as a regional hub to fulfil the needs of the GCC, the Levant, Iran and Iraq markets.
To date, Nestlé has invested more than USD 400 million in the region, owning and operating 14 factories and 16 offices. These capital investments have contributed heavily to creating job opportunities, enhancing technological and manufacturing capabilities, and fostering national economies around the region.
Nestlé's popular brands in the Middle East include NIDO®, CERELAC®, NESCAFÉ®, MAGGI®, NESQUIK®, CHOCAPIC®, NESTLÉ (COUNTRY) CORNFLAKES®, NESTLÉ FITNESS®, CHEERIOS® , NESVITA®, NESTLÉ PURE LIFE®, KIT KAT® and QUALITY STREET®.
For more information, please contact:
Einas Abou-Hatab
Buchanan Middle Eas
email: einas.abouhatab@buchananme.com
T +971 4 4239308
© Press Release 2009
