Does my child need a probiotic?
Wondering if your child needs a probiotic? As kids grow up, they go through loads of changes from being tiny tots to teens, so there are plenty of health factors to consider.
And whether they need a probiotic or not depends on various factors, but a doctor can guide you to make the best decision for your little one's wellbeing.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are tiny living things, like bacteria and yeast, that are good for your health when you eat them in the right amounts. They're often called "good" or "friendly" bacteria because they keep your digestive system balanced and healthy.
Now, let's check out some common signs that your child might benefit from probiotics:
Digestive issues: If your child has ongoing tummy problems like diarrhoea, constipation, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it could mean their gut bacteria is out of whack.
Antibiotic use: When your child takes antibiotics, especially if it’s often, it can mess up the balance of good and bad bacteria in their gut. Probiotics can help to restore this balance.
Immune system support: If your child tends to get sick regularly, probiotics could help to strengthen their immune system.
Food allergies or sensitivities: Probiotics might help to manage certain food allergies or sensitivities by keeping the gut healthy. Keep in mind that probiotics may not always be the magic cure for certain food allergies, but it’s definitely worth a try with your doctor’s go-ahead.
Eczema or skin issues: Probiotics could make a positive difference if your child has skin problems like eczema.
Recurring infections: If your child often falls ill with respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, it could be a sign that their immune system or gut bacteria needs a probiotic boost.
Growth issues: Persistent growth and developmental issues might be linked to poor nutrient absorption. Remember, the gut plays a central role in absorbing essential nutrients from the food we eat. If there are issues with the health of the gut, it can lead to poor nutrient absorption, which in turn, can result in growth and developmental issues.
Colic in infants: Probiotics might help ease the fussiness of babies with colic. Still, it’s important to know that the effectiveness of probiotics in managing colic can vary from one infant to another.
Mood and behaviour: Some studies suggest a connection between gut health and mood. If your child experiences mood swings or behavioural issues, it might be worth considering probiotics.
Dietary habits: Eating a highly processed diet without enough fibre can impact your child’s gut health, and probiotics might help create a balance.
Good to know
Keep in mind, not all probiotics are the same, so what works for one child may not work for another. If you’re wondering whether your child needs to strengthen their gut health, chat to your doctor, who can prescribe the most suitable option. Probiotics are generally considered safe when used as prescribed, but often, making some tweaks to your child’s diet is the first step.
Get started with these probiotic-rich, fermented foods:
- Yoghurt
- Kefir
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, or using any medication.