This paper studied whether giving gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) supplements to infants or their breastfeeding mothers could prevent or impact atopic dermatitis (eczema) in babies. The study looked at how this fatty acid supplement affected the development of eczema and related immune responses in the first year of life.

The researchers divided newborns into groups based on how they were fed (breastfed, formula-fed, or both). Some mothers and babies received GLA supplements while others got a placebo for up to 6 months. For breastfed babies, the mothers took the supplements. They followed the babies for one year to see who developed eczema.

The study included 131 infants in their first year of life, divided into three groups: exclusively breastfed (58 babies), combination-fed (53 babies), and exclusively formula-fed (20 babies). 24 of these babies developed atopic dermatitis during the study period.

The authors concluded that GLA supplements did not prevent atopic dermatitis in infants. However, in babies who did develop eczema, GLA supplementation appeared to reduce their IgE levels, suggesting some impact on the allergic response.