We are exposed to several pathogenic bacteria such as Salmonella (causative agent for typhoid), E.Coli (causative agent for traveler’s diarrhea) and other species of bacteria that are responsible for infections and diseases. However it is imperative to understand that there are several other species of bacteria which are essential for optimal health. These bacteria live in a symbiotic relationship within our intestine and are responsible for the synthesis of Vitamin K and other functions.Probiotics can be one of such kinds of bacteria. So probiotics for babies are very important for their healthy development.
What Are Probiotics?
Probiotics are mainly derived from the two gut-friendly bacteria–lactobacillus and bifid bacterium that resides in our gut as commensals. It has been observed that breastfed neonates or babies born via vaginal delivery tend to have higher concentration of gut friendly bacteria as compared to the babies fed on the formula milk or those who are born by C-section. This is mainly due to the fact that babies who pass through vagina have a greater share of exposure to these friendly bacteria and breastfeeding promotes their growth. Probiotics are also available in the form of over-the-counter supplements or in certain foods like yogurt.
Does My Baby Need Probiotics?
At birth most babies have sterile gastrointestinal tracts (i.e. no microorganisms) are present in the intestines. However, as they feed on breast milk and get exposed to environment, most babies are able to acquire healthy gut flora by first birthday. When babies start eating foods after 6 months of age, yogurt can be given to babies for its richness of live creatures. Although, table foods and yogurt are enough to maintain healthy supply of probiotics, healthcare providers recommend probiotics after severe episodes of prolonged vomiting or diarrhea (especially with viruses like norovirus or rotavirus) or after a long course of antibiotics. This is mainly because infections and diseases may lead to the depletion of friendly bacteria. Probiotics supplements are therefore recommended to the babies after any antibiotic course. Other indications of probiotic supplements areear infection, gassiness, eczema, baby thrush, diaper rash, constipation an acid reflux.
What Are the Benefits of Probiotics for Babies?
Probiotics assist in maintaining and restoring friendly bacteria in the gut, and preventing the overgrowth of virulent or aggressive bacteria. Probiotics for babies also strengthen the intestinal lining to prevent the harmful bacteria from entering the bloodstream along with maintaining a slightly acidic environment in the gut that is needed for optimal functioning of various enzymes and hormones. Below are some benefits of giving probiotics for babies.
1. Reflux Symptoms
According to a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Investigation in 2011, scientists concluded that probiotics supplements extracted from Lactobacillus Reuteri can minimize the symptoms of reflux. It was concluded that probiotics assists in the steady digestion of food in the stomach while minimizing the chances of aggravation of reflux, dyspepsia and other related conditions.
2. Constipation
According to a study conducted in Italy, it was suggested that regular probiotic supplementation to the infants (who have a history of chronic constipation) can help significantly in improving theregularityof stools.
3. Diaper Rash
Most cases of the diaper rash are caused by yeast (also known as diaper thrush). Probiotics can prevent these rashes and accelerate the recovery of existing rashes. Be sure to select probiotics obtained from the recommended sources such as bifidbacterium and lactobacillus that work best against yeast by suppressing the growth. These rashes are often the aftermath of using antibiotics.
4. Infant Thrush
Oral thrush can be transmitted from mother to the baby via suckling of infected breasts or vice versa. It is highly recommended to look for an adequate alternative because in the absence of proper treatment, the rash may become painful and chronic. Probiotic supplements of Acidophilus are best for infant thrush. This supplement is available in the powdered form.
5. Infant Eczema
Studies suggest that the symptoms of eczema may be alleviated by the use of probiotics. Eczema is characterized as an itchy, scaly, red rash on the skin of babies. The results from two statistically significant studies suggest that the daily probiotic use can alleviate the symptoms of infant eczema.
6. Gassiness and Colic
According to a study conducted in 2007 and published in the peer reviewed journal ‘Pediatrics’, the probiotic supplement obtained from lactobacillus reuteri is very helpful in ongoing gut ailments such as gassiness and colic. Probiotic supplements help in maintaining equilibrium between the harmful and the beneficial bacteria present within the intestine and also minimize the intestinal inflammation, responsible primarily for the symptoms of gassiness and colic.
7. Ear and Urinary Tract Infections
The efficacy of probiotics is not clear in ear infection and UTI, however, it is recommended to use probiotics after completion of any antibiotic course. Consumption of probiotics after at least 2 hours of antibiotic use can prevent yeast infections and diarrhea.
Probiotics Sources
Food Sources
The formula milk for infants that contains Bifidobacteriumlactisis usually helpful in formula-fed babies. The bacteria in the infant formula aresimilar to the bacteria in breast milk in action and function, therefore no extra supplementation is needed. When the baby is around 6 months you mayhave your baby begin weaning with semi-solid or solid foods. At this time, baby foods with probiotics can be given. Another cheap alternative is yogurt with live creatures.
Supplements
Supplements of probiotics for babies are usually found in the form of powders. The most convenient way of introducing these supplements to the baby is by dipping a damp finger in the powder mix and placing it in the mouth of the baby so he may suck on it. Other ways include, adding recommended dose in the baby food, baby formula or expressed breast milk. The normal baby dose is 1-3 billion live cultures/day.
A mom shares her experience of giving probiotics to her baby; want to know more details, watch the video below: