Pediatric microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis)

What is pediatric microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis)?

The human body needs the appropriate balance of microbes in the stomach (gut flora) in order to properly function. These good bacteria help babies digest breast milk. They also help people of all ages process energy and nutrients from food, and break down fiber to help prevent weight gain, heart disease and decrease the risk of cancer. The microbes also help immune cells communicate during illness, stop the growth of harmful microorganisms and improve brain function.

What are the different types of pediatric microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis)?

• Microbial overgrowth occurs when a child has too much “bad” – typically inflammatory – gut bacteria or too much yeast.

• Microbial undergrowth occurs when a child doesn’t have enough bacteria – good and bad.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis)?

Symptoms of microbiome imbalance include the following:

• Abdominal pain or cramping

• B12 and other vitamin/mineral deficiencies

• Bloating

• Constipation

• Diarrhea

• Fat malabsorption (losing weight despite proper nutrition)

• Gas

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

• Heartburn

• Indigestion

• Slow digestion

• Upset stomach after eating

Children with dysbiosis sometimes have other, related conditions, including:

• Aches and pain in the joints

• Hormonal imbalances

• Psychiatric disease

• Trouble losing weight

What are the causes of pediatric microbiome imbalance (dysbiosis)?

An imbalance, also known as dysbiosis, can occur for the following reasons:

• Celiac disease 

• Chronic illnesses (fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, neuromuscular disorders and autoimmune disease)

• Crohn’s disease

• Diabetes  

• Diverticulitis 

• Exposure to bacteria at birth

• Food choices throughout a child's life

• Food poisoning

• Food sensitivities (gluten, casein, lactose and fructose)

• Infection (bacterial gastroenteritis)

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Scarring from surgeries

• Scleroderma (hardening of skin and connective tissues)

• Taking certain prescription and over-the-counter medications