Ease of Digestion, Gut Health and the Microbiome in Term Infants

At birth, the microbiota, nervous and immune systems in the gastrointestinal tract have not fully matured, which can impact the digestive process. This module offers a comprehensive examination of gastrointestinal issues commonly encountered in infants, providing participants with a deeper understanding of their causes and symptoms. This module also delves into the specific nutrients present in both human milk and infant formula that play crucial roles in promoting digestive health in infants.

CPE Level: 2
CPEU: 1.0 (Valid until March 28, 2027)

Performance Indicators:

• 11.2.1 Evaluates product characteristics, ingredients and claims in order to ensure accuracy and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• 8.1.4 Integrates knowledge of macro- and micronutrients for digestion, absorption, and metabolism throughout the lifespan in practice.
• 8.1.3 Evaluates the chemical nature and composition of food quality, acceptability, and compatibility to inform product development, menu planning and food preparation techniques.

Learning Objectives

1. Discuss common gastrointestinal issues in infants.
2. Identify the nutrients in human milk and infant formula that may help ease digestion.
3. Describe the contribution of human milk and infant formula to the development of a healthy gut and microbiome.

Speakers

Marguerite Drowica Sheehan, MS, RDN, CDN

Marguerite Drowica Sheehan, MS, RDN, CDN is an employee of ByHeart and in her role supports research, publications and medical education. She authored a blog post titled "The Connection Between Autism Spectrum Disorder and Gut Microbiota" published in 2021 for Biomedical Healing for Kids as part of her dietetic internship. She has no other COI to report.

Diana Orenstein, MS, MS Ed, RDN, LDN

Diana Orenstein, MS, MS Ed, RDN, LDN is an employee of ByHeart and in her role supports research, publications and medical education. She was a co-author of the paper titled "Effects of a Novel High-Quality Protein Infant Formula on Energetic Efficiency and Tolerance: A Randomized Trial" published in 2022 in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. She has no other COI to report.

Jennifer Nepo

Jennifer Nepo is the Principal of Medparency LLC and serves as a consultant to ByHeart.