Learning From Dr. Kao

THE Voice

Dr Kao Pao-Tang is a paediatrician at the International Baby Child and Adolescent Clinic (IBCA Clinic) at Parkway MediCentre, Singapore.

He specialises in children’s emergency care, providing expert treatment for acute conditions, trauma cases, and urgent medical situations. As the former Head of the Children’s Emergency Service at National University Hospital, Dr Kao is adept in managing paediatric emergencies, from severe illnesses to life-threatening injuries.

THE Story

From the newborn stage to toddlerhood, many little ones eventually transition from breastfeeding to formula. While most mommies would love to breastfeed for as long as possible, the reality is that challenges such as milk supply, latch issues, or lifestyle demands can make the process difficult. And once it’s time to explore formula feeding, the next challenge begins — which milk formula is truly best for your child?

With shelves full of products targeting sensitive tummies, immune support, or brain development, the decision can feel overwhelming.

This year, Mead Johnson Nutrition released something new: Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome, formulated especially with the needs of C-section–born children in mind. That made me wonder — are C-section babies really different in terms of gut health? To find out, we spoke with Pediatrician Dr. Kao, who shared valuable insights every parent should know.

The difference starts at birth.

When a baby is delivered vaginally, they pass through the birth canal and are naturally exposed to the mother’s vaginal and intestinal bacteria. This helps “seed” their gut with beneficial microbes, forming the foundation of a healthy microbiome.

C-section babies, however, are introduced first to bacteria from the skin and hospital environment. This often means:

• Their gut microbiome is less diverse at the start.

• This can influence how their immune system develops in early life.

Why do C-section babies have different gut health needs?

Prebiotics vs. Probiotics — And the unique role of 2’-FL

“Not weaker, but their immune development may begin on a different path.”

Because early gut bacteria play a role in training the immune system, children born via C-section may be more prone to infections or allergies in the first few years.

The encouraging part?
With good nutrition, healthy habits, and time, their microbiome can strengthen and mature just like any other child’s.

Do C-section babies have weaker immunity?

Many parents are familiar with probiotics aka the “good bacteria” found in certain foods or supplements. But probiotics alone do not always stay long in a child’s gut. Probiotics: Live bacteria that can offer benefits but may not colonize the gut for long.Prebiotics (like inulin): Special fibers that feed your child’s own good bacteria, helping them grow and thrive.2’-FL: A milk oligosaccharide that acts like a smart nutrient, supporting beneficial bacteria and helping maintain immune balance.Together, these ingredients support a healthier gut environment from the inside out.

How does gut health shape immunity?

Around 70–80% of the immune system lives in the gut. The trillions of microbes there interact with immune cells to help the body learn: what to fight, what to tolerate, and how to respond appropriately to germs. A balanced gut microbiome reduces inflammation and supports a well-regulated immune response — essential for growing children.

Gut health, learning, and long-term development

The early years are a “critical window” when the gut, brain, and immune system develop together.

A healthy gut supports: production of neurotransmitters, nutrient absorption for brain development, and proper immune regulation. This means a strong foundation in gut health can influence not just immunity, but also focus, learning, and cognitive growth later on.

THE Growth

Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome stands out with:

2× higher 2’-FL*
Prebiotics to support good bacteria growth
MFGM & DHA for holistic brain development

It is designed especially to help strengthen immunity in children — particularly those born via C-section, who may benefit from extra microbiome support.

*Compared to Enfagrow A+ Pro Stage 3

What is Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome?

Aziel Khoo's personal experience

While it’s tailored to give additional support to C-section children, Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome is formulated to strengthen immunity and support brain development in all toddlers.

If your child falls sick easily, struggles with gut sensitivity, or you’re simply focusing on immune health, this formula may be a strong fit.

Is it suitable for all children?

"I went through several rounds of trial and error with my boy. It took time to find something that genuinely supported his growth — until I discovered Enfagrow A+ Pro. The transition was smooth, and I noticed real improvements in his overall well-being.

When I heard that Enfagrow A+ C-Biome has a higher nutritional value for my boy, I decided to let him out out this new formula. I can genuinely see improvements in his gut health. His digestion seems smoother, and he appears more comfortable overall — a huge relief for any parent.

If you’re exploring milk formulas and looking for something that supports both immunity and gut health, Enfagrow A+ Pro C-Biome might just be the one that works wonders for your little one, too."

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