Children growing up with farm animals are less likely to have allergies - new study

In their study, published in the journal PLOS ONE, scientists suggest that early exposure to farm animals promotes the formation of a distinct gut microbiome in infants. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of developing allergic reactions later in life.

In recent decades, scientists have become increasingly aware of the importance of the gut microbiome to overall human health. It was previously found that immediately after birth, a newborn baby's intestines are rich in bacteria that prefer an oxygenated environment. As the child grows and conditions change, the gut begins to be dominated by anaerobic bacteria, indicating maturation of the microbiome.

Progress of the study

The researchers collected faecal samples from 65 children at different periods of their lives: on the 3rd day after birth, at 18 months, 3 years and 8 years. The participants were divided into three groups:

• Children who lived on farms with animals.
• Children who did not live on farms and did not have pets.
• Children who did not live on farms but had pets.

Main findings

• Rich microbiome in farm children: Children who lived on farms had 7 times more anaerobic versus facultative bacteria than children in other groups.
• Decreased differences with age: Although differences in the microbiome between groups decreased as they got older, farm children still showed a more robust microbiome.
• Fewer allergies: By age 8, children who grew up on farms had significantly lower levels of allergies.

The study supports the hypothesis that early and regular contact with diverse farm microflora promotes the development of a healthy gut microbiome. This may serve as a protective factor against the development of allergies.

Study details: Annika Ljung et al, Gut microbiota markers in early childhood are linked to farm living, pets in household and allergy, PLOS ONE (2024). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0313078