Probiotics, aka good bacteria, play a meaningful role in supporting digestive and immune health. Live microorganisms naturally inhabit the gut and upper respiratory tract and help maintain a healthy microbiome, which is essential for healthy growth and development.
Building a healthy microbiome from the start
At birth, a baby’s gut and upper respiratory tract are sterile. Beneficial bacteria start to colonize the baby’s upper respiratory and digestive tracts through the birthing process, colostrum, breastfeeding, and early foods. This early colonization helps shape immune function, digestion, nutrient absorption, and vitamin K production for normal clotting. Probiotics help support this process by introducing additional good bacteria, especially when moms had to receive antibiotics during labor or had a C-section.
Helping with common childhood issues
Probiotics have been shown to be effective in various childhood issues such as colic, abdominal pain, infectious diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and constipation to name a few.
Probiotics naturally occur in fermented foods such as sauerkraut, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and kimchi.
Supplemental probiotics come in various forms: capsules, liquid, powder, and some fortified baby formulas. Many products list the number of bacteria, but remember that a good probiotic is always in a non-see-through container and refrigerated to preserve the bacteria’s lifespan. A product may have a lot of bacteria, but if it has been at room temperature and/or on a shelf for months, the likelihood that the bacteria is alive is low.
Evidence-backed relief for anxiety and depression
There’s active research that has been ongoing with probiotics for anxiety and depression, and has been shown to improve symptoms of both conditions, likely because of the gut and central nervous system connection.
There are many options for probiotics on the shelves today. It’s recommended to ensure that the probiotic includes five essential bacteria for the upper digestive system and five essential bacteria for the lower GI tract (colon). Adding bacteria similar to what an infant is exposed to throughout the labor and delivery process is key. If you have any questions regarding which probiotic to use, talk to your healthcare provider today!
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