Swedish researchers have found that children who have only a limited variety of bacteria in their intestine may be more likely to develop eczema.
A study by experts at Lund University found that children with poor intestinal flora - as demonstrated by the variety found in their faeces - one week after birth had an increased likelihood of developing eczema by the age of 18 months.
Goran Molin, professor of food hygiene at the university's Faculty of Engineering, commented: "A diversified intestinal flora seems to be better at stimulating the immune defence."
The findings, which are published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, suggest that the mother's own bacterial flora is important, as this is the child's primary source.
The researchers recommend consuming plenty of lactobacilli, such as those found in cheese, marinated olives, capers and probiotic supplements.
Swedish researchers have found that children who have only a limited variety of bacteria in their intestine may be more likely to develop eczema.
