Gut bacteria and environmental enteropathy have been gaining attention as potential factors in malnutrition. In this current Bangladesh-based study, the maturity of several species of children’s gut bacteria were examined in relation to severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among children receiving food-based interventions. The results indicate a relationship between ‘immature’ gut bacteria and reduced efficacy of the interventions.
Subramania, S., Huq, S., Yatsunenko, T., et al. Nature. (June 2014) Vol. 510, pp. 417-421.