Human breast milk contains numerous biomolecules. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) are the third most abundant component of breast milk, after lactose and lipids. Amongst the synthetized HMOs, 2'-fucosyllactose (2'-FL) and lacto-N-neotetraose (LNnT) are widely studied and are considered safe for infant nutrition. Several studies have reported the health benefits of HMOs, which include modulation of the intestinal microbiota, anti-adhesive effect against pathogens, modulation of the intestinal epithelial cell response, and development of the immune system. The amount and diversity of HMOs are determined by the genetic background of the mothers (HMO secretors or non-secretors). The non-secretor mothers secrete lower HMOs than secretor mothers. The breastfed infants of secretor mothers gain more health benefit than those of non-secretor mothers. In conclusion, supplementation of infant formula with 2'-FL and LNnT is a promising innovation for infant nutrition.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has projected that the world should prepare for an aging society. As the fourth most populous country in the world, the elderly population in Indonesia is also continuously growing. In 2010, the proportion of the elderly group was merely 5%, and it is expected to increase to 11% in 2035. Understanding the current situation of the adult population in Indonesia would be crucial to prepare for the future aging population. This article analyzed the current socio-demographic status, nutrition status, nutrient intake, and health profile of the current Indonesian adult population through a literature review. The key issues to prepare for healthy aging in Indonesia are summarized. Acknowledging the profile of the adult and senior adult population in Indonesia will provide beneficial information for all stakeholders in preparing Indonesia for a better healthy aging population with improved quality of life.

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) has a long-term impact on each life stage and remains worldwide a major public health problem. Eleven experts were invited to participate in a virtual meeting to discuss the present situation and the available intervention to prevent iron deficiency anemia in Indonesia. The experts consisted of obstetric gynecologists, pediatricians, nutritionists, midwives, a clinical psychologist, and an education expert. Existing interventions focus attention on preconception and early childhood stages. Considering the inter-generational effects of IDA, we call attention to expanding strategies to all life stages through integrating political, educational, and nutritional interventions. The experts agreed that health education and nutritional intervention should be started since adolescence. Further research to explore the effectiveness of these interventions would be important for many regions in the world. The outcome of this Indonesian consensus is applicable worldwide.

Basrowi RW, et al. Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr. 2015 Jun;18(2):94-99. http://dx.doi.org/10.5223/pghn.2015.18.2.94

Background: Mental health well-being is a fundamental human right. However, mental health awareness is not yet considered as a main priority for the government and public in Indonesia. Thus, there is an urgent need for Indonesians to fully comprehend the importance of raising mental health awareness. Methods: A discussion among 45 experts in September until October 2023 was conducted by the Community Caucus Caring for Mental Health to raise an awareness of the importance of mental health in Indonesia. The results were reported as an expert consensus. Results: The discussion acknowledged the urgency of managing mental health issue along with its five key drivers and three essences. It identified nine specific themes of mental health issues in Indonesia by focusing on four high-risk population groups. The consensus proposed multi-pronged recommendations, i.e., developing personalized mental health-related campaigns and movements, conducting mental health-relevant studies at clinical and community settings, incorporating of mental health awareness in teaching curriculum and family’s discussion, innovating technology for screening and diagnosing mental health issues, as well as an providing mental health first-aid with wide access to all population. Conclusion: The expert consensus concluded that Indonesians must start to prioritize mental health awareness and to provide sufficient resources to screen, diagnose and treat individuals with mental health disorders. The expert consensus identified nine specific themes of mental health issues in Indonesia and subsequently proposed multi-pronged recommendations with an aim to improve mental health awareness in Indonesia.

Recently, the immune system has been identified as one of the possible main bridges which connect the gut–brain axis. This review aims to examine available evidence on the microbiota–immunity–cognitive relationship and its possible effects on human health early in life. This review was assembled by compiling and analyzing various literature and publications that document the gut microbiota–immune system–cognition interaction and its implications in the pediatric population. This review shows that the gut microbiota is a pivotal component of gut physiology, with its development being influenced by a variety of factors and, in return, supports the development of overall health. Findings from current research focus on the complex relationship between the central nervous system, gut (along with gut microbiota), and immune cells, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balanced interaction among these systems for preserving homeostasis, and demonstrating the influence of gut microbes on neurogenesis, myelin formation, the potential for dysbiosis, and alterations in immune and cognitive functions. While limited, evidence shows how gut microbiota affects innate and adaptive immunity as well as cognition (through HPA axis, metabolites, vagal nerve, neurotransmitter, and myelination).