Childhood Hypertension On The Rise: 4 Things New Moms Need To Know About Breastfeeding, Leaky Gut Syndrome

Leaky gut syndrome: High blood pressure is a common concern regardless of age, but childhood hypertension is becoming increasingly prevalent.

The global rate of childhood hypertension has risen from 4% to 7% since 2020, doubling in just a few years. To address this growing issue, researchers are investigating factors that could help reduce the risks and improve cardiovascular health.

One notable finding suggests that breastfeeding infants for at least six months may play a significant role in lowering childhood blood pressure.

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According to an observational study published by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA), explored the "connections between infant gut bacteria." The researchers reviewed data from 526 children enrolled in a prospective study conducted in Denmark.

The study's methodology involved collecting fecal samples to examine the bacteria in the infants’ intestines during their first week, month, and year of life. The children’s blood pressure was then measured at ages three and six. 

The results revealed that infants who had a more diverse gut microbiome were found to have lower blood pressure later in life, with the protective effects being stronger in those breastfed for at least six months.

4 things new moms need to know about breastfeeding

• Infants who have more diverse gut bacteria at one-month-old tend to have lower blood pressure by the age of six. The blood-pressure-lowering effect is even stronger in children breastfed for at least six months, as their gut microbiome diversity offers additional benefits.
• Certain gut bacteria in infants have evolved specialized biological mechanisms to convert indigestible carbohydrates in breast milk into calories and beneficial substances for the body. According to NIH, "Specific Bifidobacterium species, including B. infantis, are superstars when it comes to breaking down these carbohydrates and turning them into short-chain fatty acids that may influence blood pressure and support cardiovascular health."
• The study also found that infants who are not breastfed are at risk of developing a "leaky gut," a condition linked to inflammation and high blood pressure in adults. NIH explains, "In infants who are not breastfed, bacteria that do not have breast milk carbohydrates to feed on may instead break down carbohydrates lining the intestines. This could result in a condition called 'leaky gut,' where bacteria and fat can enter the bloodstream."
• Additionally, the researchers found that H. pylori, a type of bacteria linked to increased blood pressure over the years, was present in some infants. NIH highlights, "H. pylori, which can be passed from mother to child, can create persistent low-level inflammation and may influence a 'leaky gut.'"