Yogurt in Infant Nutrition: Insights from a Multidisciplinary Review
A recent multidisciplinary review has concluded that natural, whole yogurt without added sugar or sweeteners can be introduced from approximately six months of age as a component of a varied diet. It highlights that commercial yogurt, produced from pasteurized milk under controlled hygienic conditions, is suitable for infants due to the absence of alcohol and the availability of formulations without excess critical nutrients.
Introduction to Complementary Feeding
Yogurt can be offered from six months, provided it does not replace breast milk or infant formula. These remain the primary sources of nutrition for infants. Yogurt is intended to serve as a complementary food.
Nutritional Profile
Yogurt is identified as a nutrient-dense food. It provides protein, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and vitamins A, D, and several B vitamins. The review also notes that the fermentation process may enhance nutrient absorption by increasing the bioavailability of proteins, carbohydrates, and certain micronutrients, including calcium and magnesium.
Safety and Tolerance
Regarding safety, commercial yogurt, manufactured from pasteurized milk under regulated conditions, is stated to meet food safety requirements. Risks associated with Escherichia coli O157:H7 have been linked to yogurt produced with raw milk, not standard industrial products.
The review indicates that yogurt may be better tolerated by individuals with lactose intolerance. This is attributed to the fermentation process, which reduces lactose content and provides microbial lactase activity. Natural yogurt without added sugars is preferred, particularly for children under two years old. Current evidence does not support claims that yogurt causes mucus. Potential benefits related to anti-inflammatory effects, oral health, and gut microbiota have also been described.
Guiding Clinicians and Caregivers
The understanding of yogurt's nutritional, chemical, and microbiological properties, as presented in the review, is intended to assist clinicians and caregivers in appropriately incorporating it into infant nutrition from the beginning of complementary feeding, without displacing breastfeeding or formula.