Abstract:

Accumulating evidences suggest that gut microbiota is associated with the development of obesity. Early life is a critical period for gut microbial colonization and development. Maternal vaginal flora and breast milk microbiota are important microbial sources for infant gut microbiota. In early life, the factors that influence the colonization and composition of gut microbiota include intrauterine microbial exposure, mode of delivery, type of infant feeding, antibiotic use, infant behavior and habits, geographical environment, and child genetic factors, etc. These factors may influence the development of childhood obesity via changing the composition of intestinal microbiota.

Key words: gut microbiota, early life, influencing factors, childhood obesity