What is the Importance of Probiotics for Babies?

From a brief abdominal pain to constipation or diarrhea, babies often experience a range of gastrointestinal problems. Several methods aim to alleviate these problems, but one that stands out from the others is probiotics. As it is known, probiotics are bacteria that help regulate a malfunctioning digestive system. It is also very important for babies.

What Are Probiotics?

Probiotics are live bacteria similar to those found naturally in our gut, formerly known as the gut flora, but more recently referred to as the microbiota. These bacteria are good and beneficial bacteria that restore the existing bacterial population in the gut.

What are Probiotic Sources for Babies?

Probiotic sources that you can offer to support your baby's health can be listed as follows:

• Yogurt
• Baby food with probiotics
• Soy milk
• Cottage cheese
• Probiotic drops and powder for babies
• Fermented soy, dairy and vegetable products

When Are Probiotics Given to Babies?

The source of the probiotic determines when you can offer it to your baby. Average age to give probiotics to baby, depending on different food sources:

• Yogurt: It can be tasted by the baby from the age of nine months and offered to babies aged twelve months.
• Soy milk: It can be offered to babies aged twelve months.
• Cottage cheese: It can be offered to babies up to twelve months old.
• Probiotic baby foods: Probiotic drops and baby food can also be produced for babies under three months old. However, it is best to consult a doctor before giving probiotics to children under six months of age. Babies older than six months can safely take probiotic formulas.
• Fermented soy, milk and vegetable products: These types of foods can also be given to the baby from the age of twelve, with the permission of the doctor.

Benefits of Probiotics for Babies

Probiotics are considered extremely beneficial and safe for babies. However, they are unlikely to have any serious side effects. The effects of these beneficial bacteria on baby health:

• Regular intake of probiotics can help reduce bloating and gas in a baby. Gas can be a cause for colic, so somehow probiotics can prevent it.
• Intestinal infection can cause diarrhea. Probiotics reduce diarrhea by making the gut stronger to fight infection.
• Good bacteria in the gut also play a role in better digestion of food. Probiotics can also stimulate mucus production in the gut. This can further speed up digestion and reduce constipation. Babies who eat solid foods can especially benefit from probiotics.
• Intestinal bacteria can produce various vitamins for the body and improve intestinal immunity. Since probiotics help stimulate the population of these good bacteria, they indirectly play important roles in the absorption of nutritional components and stronger immunity.