Probiotics are live microorganisms, similar to the beneficial bacteria found in the human gut, that are believed to provide numerous health benefits when consumed. In recent years, the use of probiotics for infants has gained a lot of attention, and for good reason. There are many benefits of probiotics for infants, which can help to improve their health and overall well-being.
Supports digestive health: Infants are particularly vulnerable to digestive problems, such as diarrhoea, constipation, and colic. Probiotics can help to support digestive health by increasing the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut, which can help to balance the gut microbiome and prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
Boosts immunity: Probiotics have been shown to improve the immune system by stimulating the production of antibodies and white blood cells, which help to fight off infections. This is especially important for infants, who are still developing their immune systems and are more susceptible to illness.
Promotes healthy skin: Probiotics have been shown to improve skin health by reducing inflammation and promoting skin barrier function. This can help to prevent skin irritation and rashes, which are common in infants.
Supports brain development: Research has shown that the gut and brain are closely connected, and that the gut microbiome can influence brain function and development. By improving gut health, probiotics can help to support brain development in infants.
Helps with lactose intolerance: Some infants may experience lactose intolerance, which can lead to digestive problems and discomfort. Probiotics can help to break down lactose in the gut, reducing symptoms of lactose intolerance.
Supports stable mood and reduces anxiety. There are a number of mechanisms by which the gut directly affects the brain. By taking beneficial bacteria we can protect the gut-brain axis and support the gut microbes that cultivate our brain neurotransmitters such as serotonin (happiness), dopamine (motivation and satisfaction), norepinephrine (fight or flight), GABA (inner calm) and acetylcholine (learning and memory).
It's important to note that not all probiotics are created equal, and it's important to choose a high-quality product that is specifically formulated for infants.
Additionally, probiotics should always be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
In conclusion, probiotics can provide numerous benefits for infants, from supporting digestive health and boosting immunity, to promoting healthy skin and supporting brain development. By choosing a high-quality product and following the advice of a healthcare professional, parents can help to ensure that their infant receives all the benefits that probiotics have to offer.
Why the need for probiotics?
Many different factors influence the microbiome. These include the type of delivery (vaginal or Cesarean/C-section), type of milk fed to the infant (breast milk or formula), use of antibiotics and other medications, and even the components of the mother’s microbiome during conception and delivery.
Formula Feeding and Probiotics
If breastfeeding isn’t an option for mothers, beneficial bacteria can be added to formula to help infants establish a healthy gut microbiome and immune system. Ideally, probiotics for infants should be free of artificial ingredients and fillers and should include multiple strains of bacteria. However, the probiotics should utilize strains specifically found in the intestinal tract of infants. The Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria species are safe and effective in infant probiotic formulas.
Tips for Supporting a Child’s Microbiome
If a baby is born via caesarean section or has been exposed to antibiotics within the first six months, consider supplementation with a Bifidobacterium-based beneficial bacteria.
Expose them to fresh air as much as possible and keep your house well ventilated.
Spend as much time outside and once they are on the move encourage time playing, crawling, rolling and running in grass and even in the mud.
Avoid ultra-processed convenience ready-made foods, white flour and refined sugars.
Once weaned, aim to feed the “rainbow” of fruits and vegetables a day and aim for a minimum of “5 a day”. Find clever ways to get more into your kids via smoothies, ice lollies or grated/blended into muffins, waffles and pancakes. I have many tips on this on my social pages.
Bolster up the diet with pulses, wholegrains, nut butters and ground nuts and seeds.
Vitamin D and Omega 3 help to nourish a healthy microbiome.
Aim for variety of food as much as possible.
Consider fermented or cultured foods such as live yoghurt, kefir, apple cider vinegar and miso.
The great news is that even if you are reading this when your kids are older, it’s now well-established that it’s never too late to work on the gut microbiome and eating habits can be changed over time (even if this seems painfully slow!). Since a child’s brain is still developing until their mid-twenties there is still plenty of time to re-set their gut bugs and this might even influence their learning, behaviour and developmental trajectory.