Bacteria may help babies' digestive tracts more than suspected, scientists find

(Michigan Medicine - University of Michigan) Some of the first living things to greet a newborn baby do a lot more than coo or cuddle. In fact, they may actually help the little one's digestive system prepare for a lifetime of fighting off dangerous germs. But these living things aren't parents, grandparents or siblings -- they're helpful bacteria. And new research suggests they may help the lining of the newborn gut mature.