has now led to the development of formula milk which more closely resembles breast milk. Prebiotics (which are found in human milk and strengthen a baby’s immune system) can now be extracted from natural products and included in formula milk. This new breakthrough has undergone detailed laboratory and clinical testing and after intense scrutiny the scientific advisors to the European Commission have deemed these Prebiotics as safe and beneficial to the baby.

At the moment, Milupa’s and Nutricia’s baby formula milks are the only ones containing prebiotics that are allowed on the European market. This is because no substances can be added to formula milk unless they have been proven to have a beneficial effect for the child. Such benefits, which are provided by these two companies’ Prebiotics, include the stimulation of the immune system, which is our natural defense system against disease. With the help of these Prebiotics, the baby is more able to avoid allergies and to fight gastric and respiratory infections which are very common in infants. Babies are much more vulnerable to disease and this is why they need particular protection and support. Gastroenteritis, for example, is more than just an inconvenience and may be life-threatening to babies in serious cases. Besides, if the baby suffers less allergy problems then he or she will be happier and more content, and this would have a positive effect on the baby’s development and baby-and-mother bonding. At the moment it is the short term benefits to immunity that have been clinically proven but there is also evidence that this strengthened immune system may continue into later years. Considering that a person’s immune system is set in infancy, there are clear indications that these early benefits may be long term and will continue in childhood and beyond.

This medical breakthrough was discussed last week by Mr John Wells, a paediatric nutritionist from the UK with thirty years of wide-ranging experience in this field. He addressed medical and paramedical professionals in Malta and presented the latest findings by Milupa and Nutricia on the strengthening of immunity from a nutritional perspective. The presentation was chaired by Dr Simon Attard Montalto, Chairman of Paediatrics at St Luke’s Hospital. On this occasion Pemix Ltd also presented the Department of Paediatrics with two Pulse Oxymeters, devices which measure the amount of oxygen through the baby’s skin and are extremely valuable in treating children with respiratory and chest problems. More information about Milupa and Nutricia products containing Prebiotics, and the benefits that they may offer a baby, is available by contacting doctors and pharmacists. A customer information service is available through freephone 8007 4142. Information is also available online on Pemix Ltd’s website www.pemix.com.mt.