The Gut Microbiome in Early Childhood Obesity: Exploring the Role of Diet and Probiotics - An Observational Study in Palembang, Indonesia

Abstract

Introduction: Early childhood obesity is a growing public health concern, with the gut microbiome emerging as a potential contributing factor. Diet and probiotics hold promise in modulating the gut microbiome and potentially influencing obesity risk. This study investigated the associations between dietary patterns, gut microbiome composition, and the use of probiotics in early childhood obesity in Palembang, Indonesia.

Methods: An observational study was conducted in Palembang, involving 150 children aged 2-5 years, categorized into obese and non-obese groups based on WHO growth standards. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day food record, gut microbiome composition was analyzed via 16S rRNA sequencing of fecal samples, and probiotic use was documented through questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including multivariate regression and microbiome diversity metrics, were employed to explore associations.

Results: Obese children displayed significantly lower gut microbiome diversity compared to non-obese children (p < 0.05). Dietary patterns rich in processed foods and sugary drinks were associated with altered gut microbiome composition, characterized by increased abundance of Firmicutes and decreased Bacteroidetes (p < 0.01). Probiotic use was associated with improved gut microbiome diversity and a trend towards reduced obesity risk (p = 0.07).

Conclusion: This study provides evidence linking dietary patterns, gut microbiome composition, and probiotic use to early childhood obesity in Palembang, Indonesia. Promoting healthy dietary choices and considering probiotic supplementation may offer potential strategies for obesity prevention in this population. Further research is warranted to establish causality and explore the long-term impact of interventions targeting the gut microbiome in early childhood obesity.