Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are prebiotic fibers that have been investigated for their potential to modulate the immune system and influence allergic responses, particularly food allergies. Scientific evidence suggests that GOS can shape the composition of gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria such as bifidobacteria and lactobacilli. These changes in the gut microbiome may contribute to the development of oral tolerance and a reduction in allergic inflammation, which are important mechanisms in the prevention and management of food allergies.

Several animal studies and some clinical trials, especially in infants at risk of developing allergies, have shown that supplementing infant formula with GOS (often combined with other prebiotics like fructooligosaccharides) may reduce the incidence of atopic dermatitis and other allergic outcomes. For instance, a randomized controlled trial published in Gut (2006) found that infants fed a GOS/FOS-supplemented formula had a lower incidence of allergic manifestations compared to controls. Other studies have indicated potential benefits for modulation of immune markers associated with allergy.

However, the overall evidence remains modest. Most human data focus on allergy prevention in infancy rather than treatment of established food allergies, and results are not always consistent. Current guidelines do not yet recommend GOS as a standard therapy for food allergies. Therefore, while there is some scientific rationale and preliminary evidence, more high-quality research is needed to establish its efficacy.

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