Baby Probiotics

The Importance of Probiotics in Infant Health

The gut microbiota, gut microbiome, or gut flora refers to the collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, that live in our digestive tracts. The GI tract houses roughly 100 trillion of these microorganisms; they are involved in countless critical aspects of health, including immune function, brain development and cognition, metabolic health, and endocrine function. This is why probiotics for babies are important.

The primary source of a newborn's intestinal microbiota is the maternal gut. There is a massive transfer of microbes from the mother to the fetus through the placenta in utero, again in the birth canal (in the case of vaginal births), and once again postnatally via breastfeeding. These good bacteria are known collectively as probiotics. Research on probiotics has been in full swing for years, firmly establishing myriad solid health benefits.

However, science has recently examined the use of probiotics in a pediatric population much more closely. Researchers have come to find that, indeed, probiotic supplementation may offer exceptionally robust health benefits to babies. This makes perfect sense when you consider that 70 to 80% of the immune system resides in the gut. Since a baby's immune system is still immature, a healthy supply of the right friendly bacteria will improve gut microbiome diversity and bolster immune system development and function.

Key Benefits of Probiotics for Your Baby's Well-Being

Of course, the benefits don’t stop there. Probiotic supplementation in babies has been shown to: 

• Boost Digestive Health
• Enhance Nutrient Absorption
• Help Prevent Allergies (seasonal and food)
• Improve Skin Health (eczema, cradle cap, dry skin)
• Promote healthy cognitive development  
• Soothe GI Problems (including Infant colic)
   

Why Every Baby Needs Probiotics: A Comprehensive Overview

Simply put, everyone, including babies born vaginally or via C-section. The reason for this is that while a large percentage of our gut microbiome is inherited at birth, the composition of our microbiota is also transient and evolves over time, both in terms of the quantity and quality of bacteria. Factors such as diet, environment, sleep quality, and the use of antibiotics (either by the mother during pregnancy or a baby in early life) will all affect how diverse the gut microbiota is. This is key because research has shown that good bacterial diversity is especially critical in the first months of life.

Selecting The Right Supplements For Your Baby

While all probiotics offer robust health benefits, it’s also important to know that not all probiotic strains offer the same health benefits. Indeed, research over the last decade or so has demonstrated that probiotics' efficacy is both strain- and condition-specific. This is why simply opting for the least expensive brand or the one probiotic blend "on special" may be a good call for your wallet, but it may not offer you or your child the benefits you're hoping for.

For a bit of assistance finding the right probiotic blend, speak to the knowledgeable staff at your neighbourhood supplement retailer.