Probiotics in the Prevention of Eczema: A Randomised Controlled Trial

(Allen at al. 2014)

The probiotic formula that is used in GENESTRA BRANDS HMF Baby B and HMF Baby F was found to safely and effectively reduce atopic eczema incidence and skin prick sensitivity to common allergens in infants. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel group trial, 454 pregnant women at 36 weeks of gestation were assigned to either the probiotic capsule treatment group (Lactobacillus salivarius CUL61 6.25×109 colony forming units (CFUs), Lactobacillus paracasei CUL08 1.25×109 CFU, Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CUL34 1.25×109 CFU and Bifidobacterium bifidum CUL20 1.25×109 CFU) or the placebo capsule treatment group. Participants began daily supplementation with either treatment until giving birth; participants’ infants then began daily supplementation until 6 months of age. At 6 months and 2 years of age, skin prick testing (SPT) was performed using common food allergens (cow’s milk, hen’s egg). The presence of atopic eczema was determined based upon the presence of one or more positive SPTs. In comparison with the infant participants in the placebo group, participants in the probiotic group experienced a statistically significant 57% decrease in atopic eczema. Participants in the probiotic group also experienced a significant 44% decrease in skin prick sensitivity to common food allergens.

• 57% decrease in atopic eczema
• 44% decrease in skin prick sensitivity to food allergens