Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Explained
The digestive system plays a crucial role in overall health, affecting everything from nutrient absorption to immune function. Maintaining a balanced gut microbiome is essential for digestive well-being, and one powerful way to support gut health is through Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs)—a natural prebiotic found in breast milk.
What Are HMOs?
Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are complex carbohydrates that serve as prebiotics, feeding beneficial bacteria in the gut while blocking harmful pathogens from attaching to the intestinal lining. They are the third most abundant component of human breast milk after lactose and lipids, making them a crucial part of infant gut development【1】.
Scientific research has shown that HMOs help modulate gut microbiota, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and support immune function【2】. While naturally present in breast milk, advancements in biotechnology have enabled the production of HMOs for use in nutritional supplements, expanding their benefits to children and adults.
How HMOs Support Digestive Health
HMOs contribute to gut health in multiple ways:
Promoting Beneficial Bacteria: They act as a food source for Bifidobacteria, a type of probiotic bacteria that supports digestive health【3】. Studies indicate that Bifidobacteria flourish in the presence of HMOs, leading to improved gut microbiome balance【4】.
Strengthening the Gut Barrier: HMOs help maintain the integrity of the intestinal lining, reducing the risk of gut permeability and leaky gut syndrome【5】.
Blocking Harmful Pathogens: They prevent harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella, from binding to the gut wall, reducing the risk of infections and inflammation【6】.
Supporting Immune Function: By modulating gut bacteria, HMOs enhance the body's natural immune response, making the gut more resilient to infections【7】.
HMOs: A Key Ingredient in HuMOLYTE
Recognizing the powerful benefits of HMOs, they have been integrated into HuMOLYTE, a scientifically formulated hydration solution. HuMOLYTE leverages HMOs to protect the digestive system, support hydration, and maintain gut balance. This unique formula offers an advanced approach to gut health by combining HMOs with essential electrolytes, providing comprehensive support for digestive and immune function.
How HMOs in HuMOLYTE Support Digestive Health and Chemotherapy Patients
One of the most significant challenges chemotherapy patients face is digestive distress, including diarrhea, vomiting, and mucositis (painful inflammation of the digestive tract). These side effects not only cause discomfort but also make it difficult for patients to stay hydrated, often requiring IV fluids to prevent dehydration.
HuMOLYTE is uniquely formulated with Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs)—a powerful, research-backed ingredient known for protecting the digestive system. HMOs help strengthen the gut barrier, reduce inflammation, and block harmful pathogens that can exacerbate chemotherapy side effects. By supporting a balanced gut microbiome and preventing intestinal permeability, HMOs in HuMOLYTE help decrease the occurrence and severity of diarrhea, vomiting, and mucositis.
Because of its gut-protective properties, HuMOLYTE enables chemotherapy patients to maintain hydration without relying on IV fluids, making treatment more manageable while promoting overall well-being. This innovative approach offers a scientifically backed, non-invasive solution to one of chemotherapy’s most challenging side effects.
References
Bode, L. (2012). Human milk oligosaccharides: Every baby needs a sugar mama. Glycobiology, 22(9), 1147-1162.
Triantis, V., Bode, L., & van Neerven, R. J. J. (2018). Immunological effects of human milk oligosaccharides. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 6, 190.
Zivkovic, A. M., & Barile, D. (2011). Bovine milk as a source of functional oligosaccharides for improving human health. Advances in Nutrition, 2(3), 284-289.
Marcobal, A., Barboza, M., Froehlich, J. W., Block, D. E., German, J. B., Lebrilla, C. B., & Mills, D. A. (2010). Consumption of human milk oligosaccharides by gut-related microbes. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 58(9), 5334-5340.
Donovan, S. M., & Comstock, S. S. (2016). Human milk oligosaccharides influence neonatal mucosal and systemic immunity. Journal of Nutrition, 146(9), 1972S-1978S.
Shoaf, K., Mulvey, G. L., Armstrong, G. D., & Hutkins, R. W. (2006). Prebiotic galactooligosaccharides reduce adherence of enteropathogenic Escherichia coli to tissue culture cells. Infection and Immunity, 74(12), 6920-6928.
Puccio, G., Alliet, P., Cajozzo, C., Janssens, E., Corsello, G., Sprenger, N., & Steenhout, P. (2017). Effects of infant formula with human milk oligosaccharides on growth and morbidity: A randomized multicenter trial. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, 64(4), 624-631.
For more information on how HuMOLYTE can support your gut health during chemotherapy, visit our product page or consult your health care provider.
This blog was reviewed by Dr. Sourabh Kharait.
This blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan, hydration strategies, or diet. The information provided here is based on general insights and may not apply to individual circumstances.
