Researchers have uncovered a possible strategy for preventing Type 1 diabetes.

This autoimmune condition strikes the pancreas, damaging insulin-producing cells needed to regulate blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes typically develops in people under the age of 20.

A recently published article in JAMA Pediatrics points to probiotics as a potential protector against the disease. These microorganisms can help ward off detrimental bacteria in the digestive system, improving health as they do so. They’re often found in yogurt and sold as dietary supplements.

The new study found probiotics helped some children who have the highest genetic risk for developing Type 1 diabetes.

Only kids who received probiotics during feedings or as supplements in the first 27 days of life seemed to benefit. These babies had a significantly lower risk of developing the disease compared with babies who did not receive probiotics.

Newborn babies don’t yet have a lot of bacteria… good or bad… in their digestive systems, so they can be especially susceptible to acquiring a bacterial imbalance. The researchers posit that probiotics help to prevent such an imbalance, and in doing so, help keep the immune system from becoming ramped up. An immune system that’s properly in check won’t start attacking the pancreas.

By maintaining a healthful bacterial balance in the tiniest babies, probiotics may in fact prevent the autoimmune assault that is Type I diabetes.

Sadly, the strategy is not foolproof. Some children developed the disease despite being in the group most likely to benefit.

The scientists state that more research needs to be done on the topic. Parents give probiotics to babies for many reasons, but should be sure to check with their pediatricians first.