Prebiotics 'cut baby's skin risk'

Adding prebiotics to formula feed can help cut the risk of babies developing a form of eczema, research suggests.

Milan's Center for Infant Nutrition found atopic dermatitis was less likely in babies given supplemented formula than those given the standard form.

Prebiotics encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria (probiotics) in the gut.

The study, published in Archives of Disease in Childhood, suggests they might prevent atopic dermatitis by giving a boost to the immune system.

Lead researcher Professor Guido Moro said the risk of atopic dermatitis was reduced by over 50% in the prebiotic-fed infants.

The research focused on 192 healthy children considered to be at high risk of developing allergies.

Steve - in addition, probiotics are good to add to formula, and for women who are breastfeeding, supplement with probiotics as well.