In this episode, Lisa talks with Stephanie Culler, PhD, co-founder and CEO of Persephone Biosciences and lead author of the My Baby Biome Study, the largest U.S. study profiling the infant gut microbiome.
Stephanie explains why many modern babies are missing important species of bifidobacteria, even when they are born vaginally and breastfed. They discuss how birth practices, antibiotics, diet, breast milk, prebiotics, and environmental exposures may shape a baby’s developing microbiome.
Lisa and Stephanie also explore the importance of avoiding parental guilt, why early microbial development may influence future health, and what families and healthcare professionals should look for when evaluating infant probiotic products.
In this episode:
- Why bifidobacteria are considered foundational to the infant gut
- How breast milk oligosaccharides feed beneficial bacteria
- The effects of cesarean birth and antibiotics on microbial development
- Why breastfeeding remains important even when key bacteria are missing
- Connections being studied between the microbiome, eczema, allergies, and immune health
- How diet, fiber, fermented foods, and environmental exposure support microbial diversity
- What to consider when choosing a probiotic for an infant
- Why clinical testing and strain-specific research matter
- How restoring missing microbes may support the developing gut ecosystem
Learn more about the work of Stephanie Culler, PhD here: Persephone.bio.
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This podcast is meant for education and conversation only. It is not medical advice and does not replace formal education, professional training, or individualized care from a qualified healthcare provider. Always seek appropriate guidance for individual concerns. The views and opinions shared by our guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the host or Tongue-tie experts.
