The Gut-Brain-Immune Triangle in Infants

Published by Anushka Gokani, Mom & Baby Functional Nutrition Coach

Yale School of Medicine and Columbia University reveal a direct link between early gut microbiota and mental health risks like ADHD, anxiety, and immunity challenges.

What The Research Shows:

• Babies with diverse microbiomes have stronger immunity and lower risk of ADHD by age 7 (Yale Medicine, 2021).

• Breastmilk-fed infants show higher Bifidobacterium species, reducing inflammatory markers.

• Columbia studies reveal that early stress alters gut microbiome, heightening mental health vulnerabilities.

Supporting Gut-Brain Health:

✅ Probiotics during pregnancy and breastfeeding

✅ Omega-3s reduce gut permeability

✅ Skin-to-skin and emotional attunement optimize gut flora

References:

• Yale Medicine, 2021 — Microbiome and Child Development

• Columbia University Irving Medical Center — Gut Microbiome’s Role in Neurodevelopment