The Gut-Brain Connection in Babies — How Early Nutrition Shapes Future Health

Published by Anushka Gokani, Mom & Baby Functional Nutrition Coach

The gut isn’t just for digestion — it’s your baby’s second brain, hosting 70% of their immune system and producing neurotransmitters like serotonin.

Why Does the Gut Matter in Infancy?

• 80% of a baby’s immune system is in the gut

• The first 1000 days (conception to 2 years) are critical for gut microbiome development (Nature Reviews Gastroenterology, 2019)

Key Nutrients for Gut & Brain Health:

✅ Prebiotics & Probiotics: Reduce colic, eczema, and allergies

✅ Omega-3 DHA: Supports brain myelination and cognition

✅ Zinc & Iron: Essential for gut lining health and immunity

✅ Breastmilk: Contains HMOs (human milk oligosaccharides) feeding good gut bacteria

Research Insight:

Babies with diverse gut microbiota by age 2 have lower risks of developing ADHD, allergies, and obesity later (Frontiers in Pediatrics, 2020).

Early tip: Delay introducing sugary foods — they harm beneficial bacteria.