A study of a breast-milk substitute for older people has shown significant health benefits, according to new research.

Prebiotics are already used in infant milk formulas, but are now also available for older adults.

In the UK university study of prebiotic Bimuno, volunteers aged between 64 and 79 were given this product or placebo to take each day over ten weeks.

Bimuno showed a positive effect on the body’s bacterial balance and immunity, which usually go into decline among people who are aged 65 plus.

Lead researcher Dr Jelena Vulevic said: "Bimuno has a direct effect on the body’s immune defence cells thus enhancing immune function in elderly people."

Bimuno is a carbohydrate which is not digested by the stomach or small intestine leaving it to get to work boosting the friendly bacteria in the colon.

The results were published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition.