In this article, we will explore the best probiotics for children, discuss safety concerns, and provide a list of benefit for probiotic supplements specifically designed for kids. We will also offer tips on how to choose the right probiotic for your child based on their needs and preferences. So, let's dive in and discover the world of probiotics and how they can contribute to your child's overall health and well-being.
As parents, we always want the best for our children, especially when it comes to their health. One way to support their well-being is by incorporating probiotics into their daily routine. Probiotics are healthy bacteria that can have positive health benefits when consumed in the right amounts, such as improving digestion, reducing colic symptoms, and preventing diarrhea associated with antibiotics.
With a plethora of options available, it can be challenging to find the perfect probiotic supplement for your child. That's why we've researched and compiled a comprehensive guide to the best probiotics for children, focusing on product reviews to help parents make informed decisions.
Key TakeAway For The Best Probiotic For Children
It's important to not buy cheap or inexpensive probiotics for your children. We know that the gut microbiome is changing throughout the young years into their teens.
Setting them up for success (even if it's for a few months) with a quality probiotic is important for their health as they age.
That's why I suggest Seed PDS-08 as the best probiotic for children. It has the keystone species that will help out not only with digestive health and regulating bowel movements. It can be extremely helpful for eczema, asthma, and improving your kids immune health.
Seed PDS-08 is a clinically studied 2-in-1 powdered synbiotic with 9 probiotic strains and a fiber-based prebiotic, supporting overall gastrointestinal function and healthy digestive responses. This is by far the best probiotic for kids.
It's about $50 and is very easy to use and enjoy, the chances of side effects are slim unlike other probiotics, and you can easily add it to yogurts, juices, or other drinks. You can use discount code "synctherapy" for 15% off
If you're wanting something cheaper but still effective, I'd suggest Ora Organics Probiotics for Kids. It doesn't have all the benefits like Seed does but it's still a very good probiotic.
Ora Organic's probiotic for kids is a great choice because it provides digestive and immune health support for children aged 4 and up. The product contains a delicious probiotic and prebiotic powder that melts in the mouth like candy, making it enjoyable for kids to take. It is formulated with clinically-studied, acid-resistant probiotic strains that have been shown to support a healthy immune response, upper respiratory health, and healthy digestive function
Seed PDS-08 is $49 and use "synctherapy" to get 15% off
Trust Your Gut Pixies For Kids Is $29
What are Probiotics?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are beneficial for the overall health of our bodies, especially our digestive system. These microorganisms are often referred to as "friendly" or "good" bacteria because they help maintain the balance of our gut microbiota.
The gut microbiota is a complex community of trillions of microorganisms that play a crucial role in our digestion, immune function, and overall well-being. Probiotics can be found in certain foods, such as yogurt and sauerkraut, as well as in dietary supplements.
They work by colonizing the gut and promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria, while inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria. Probiotics have been studied extensively for their potential health benefits, including improved digestive health, enhanced immune function, relief from gastrointestinal issues, and even support for mental health.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in probiotics for children, as they can help support their developing immune systems and promote healthy digestion.
Benefits of Probiotics for Children
Probiotics play a crucial role in supporting the overall health of children, particularly in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
These beneficial bacteria strains help rebalance the gut microbiome, especially after a course of antibiotics, and can potentially protect against diarrhea.
One of the key benefits of probiotics is their ability to promote a healthy digestive system. They help regulate the balance of bacteria in the gut, ensuring that there is a healthy abundance of "good" bacteria to support optimal digestive function. By maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria, probiotics can help alleviate various digestive issues that children may experience, such as constipation, inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and infectious diarrhea.
It's important to note that while soil based probiotics offer potential health benefits , their effectiveness can vary depending on the unique microbiome of each individual. The strains of bacteria used in probiotic supplements may differ, and what works well for one a child's health may not be as effective for another.
In conclusion, probiotics for children can be highly beneficial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. They help to rebalance gut bacteria, support optimal digestive function, and potentially protect against diarrhea. However, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate probiotic supplement for your child's specific needs.
Top Probiotics For Children
Probiotics play a crucial role in supporting children's overall health, particularly their digestive system. They contain beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy balance in the gut, promoting optimal digestive function. While the effectiveness of probiotics may vary depending on each child's unique microbiome, there are certain strains of probiotics that have shown promising results in supporting children's health. In this article, we will explore some of the top probiotics for children and their specific health benefits. Whether your child is experiencing digestive issues or you simply want to optimize their gut health, incorporating these probiotics into their daily routine can be a great choice. Let's delve into the world of probiotics and discover the best options for your little one's well-being.
Seed PDS-08
Voted Best For: Long-term health benefits, respiratory health, regulating bowel movements.
Key Features: 1) Numerous keystone species of bacteria to promote health throughout your child's life setting them up for success. 2) The most amount of bacteria strains compared to others in the right amount . 3) Science based + plus great education for parents.
One of the key benefits of PDS-08™ is its ability to promote regular bowel movements. PDS-08™ provides 5 grams of prebiotic fiber per serving, helping to bridge the fiber gap in children's diets and support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. It's easy to give PDS-08™, simply mix the powder into cold food or drinks, such as yogurt, applesauce, or a cool beverage.
Parents choose Seeds PDS-08 for helping: regular stools, immune health, eczema, allergies, and asthma
Seed PDS-08 Probiotic is $49 - Use "synctherapy" discount code for 15% off
Seed PDS-08 is considered the best probiotic for children due to its well-formulated composition, clinically studied benefits, and ease of use. Formulated for children aged 3-17, PDS-08 is a 2-in-1 probiotic powder synbiotic that combines 9 probiotic strains with a fiber-based prebiotic.
The product has been clinically studied to support overall gastrointestinal function, healthy digestive responses, skin health, respiratory tract function, and response to seasonal allergens in children. It also contains 5 grams of prebiotic fiber per serving, which helps bridge the fiber gap and supports regular bowel movements.
PDS-08 is developed in collaboration with leading scientists and research partners from around the world, ensuring its high quality and effectiveness. It has been clinically studied to support easy, regular poops without stimulants.
The product is free from harmful filler ingredients and contains active ingredients proven to improve health in children and adolescents.
Moreover, PDS-08 has been engineered to optimize probiotic survivability and stability through digestion, with delivery technology that safeguards select strains from stomach acid, enzymes, and bile salts.
The product is easy to use, as it comes in convenient sachets that can be mixed into cold or room temperature soft foods or liquids. It is also free from 14 common allergens, making it suitable for most children.
Seed PDS-08 has been well-received by parents, who appreciate its science-backed approach, effectiveness, and sustainable packaging.
However, it is always recommended that parents consult their child's pediatrician before starting any new supplement for their children
Trust your gut Pre + Probiotic Pixies for Kids
Voted Best For: Best budget probiotics supplements for kids, great probiotic for sensitive tummies, great reviews for taste
Ora Organic's probiotic for kids is a top choice because it provides digestive and immune health support for children aged 4 and up.
The product contains a delicious probiotic and prebiotic powder that melts in the mouth like candy, making it enjoyable for kids to take.
It is formulated with clinically-studied, acid-resistant probiotic strains that have been shown to support a healthy immune response, upper respiratory health, and healthy digestive function
Trust Your Gut Pixies For Kids Is $29
Trust Your Gut Pre + Probiotic Pixies for Kids is a great probiotic for kids for several reasons:
- Clinically-studied probiotic strains: It contains 3 clinically-studied probiotic strains with health benefits for kids, ensuring that the product is backed by scientific research.
- Prebiotic support: The product is synbiotic, which means it includes prebiotics to enhance the effectiveness of the probiotics. It uses an organic prebiotic and includes a potent dosage to better support the gut microbiome.
- Acid-resistant probiotics: The probiotics in Trust Your Gut Pixies for Kids are acid-resistant, meaning they can survive in the gut and provide the intended benefits.
- Health benefits: Studies have shown that the probiotics in this product can help support a healthy immune response, upper respiratory health, and healthy digestive function.
- Easy to consume: The product comes in a melt-in-your-mouth powder form that kids enjoy taking, making it easy for them to consume.
- Free from allergens and additives: Trust Your Gut Pixies for Kids is dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, and free from tree nuts, added sugars, filler ingredients, artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, or preservatives.
- Positive customer reviews: Parents have reported that their kids enjoy the taste and have experienced benefits such as improved digestion and fewer colds
Culturelle Kids Purely Probiotics Chewables
Key Features: Parents like it for regulating bowel movements, eczema ,
They use the science-backed Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG† strain that works to populate your child’s gastrointestinal microbiome with good bacteria to support healthy digestion, help keep their immune system strong and promote general well-being.
Buy Culturelle Probiotic for Kids on Amazon
Culturelle Kids Purely Probiotics Chewables is considered one of the best probiotics for kids due to several factors, including its effectiveness, safety, and the presence of a clinically studied probiotic strain.
The best chewable probiotic tablets contain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), which is the most clinically studied strain in children and infants.
This strain has been shown to support both immune and digestive health.
The delicious berry-flavored chewables are designed to help a child's digestive system work better and support their immune system.
They are formulated with 5 billion CFUs of Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, which works naturally with a child's microbiome, where 70% of their immune system resides. This helps to foster a balance of good bacteria in the child's digestive tract, promoting a healthy immune system, digestion, and overall health.
Culturelle Kids Purely Probiotics Chewables are suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years.
They are vegetarian and free from gluten, dairy, yeast, milk, soy, added colors, and preservatives.
Parents have reported improvements in their children's digestive issues, eczema, and allergy symptoms after using this product
BioGaia Protectis
Voted Best For: Reduce the duration of infectious diarrhea
Key Features: Parents like it for regulating bowel movements, eczema
BioGaia Protectis can provide several benefits for children's gut health, such as enforcing the gut barrier, improving digestion, enhancing gut motility, and supporting the development of the immune system
Buy BioGaia Protectis Probiotic for Kids on Amazon
BioGaia Protectis is considered one of the best probiotics for kids due to its well-documented efficacy and safety in numerous clinical studies. The probiotic strain Limosilactobacillus reuteri (formerly known as Lactobacillus reuteri) Protectis (L. reuteri DSM 17938) has been used in 117 clinical studies involving 14,200 children.
This strain has been shown to have a positive effect on the microbiota composition, contributing to improved digestion, gut motility, and the development of the immune system.
Two meta-analyses have confirmed the effectiveness of L. reuteri Protectis in reducing colic in infants. Additionally, probiotics have shown beneficial effects in gastrointestinal disorders such as colic, constipation, and diarrhea, as well as in maintaining normal immune function and protection against infections.
BioGaia Protectis is available in various forms, such as chewable tablets and drops, making it easy for children to consume.
The lemon-lime flavored chewable tablets are designed to promote digestive comfort in young children ages, from toddlers to teens.
The probiotic drops have been clinically shown to ease colic, spit-ups, and occasional constipation and diarrhea in newborns and infants up to 12 months old
Garden of Life Organic Kids Probiotics
Voted Best For: General gut health
Key Features: Average health benefits but a good probiotic supplement for the price
Garden of Life's Dr. Formulated Probiotics Organic Kids+ is a good probiotic for children because it is specifically designed to support their immune system and digestive health. This probiotic contains 5 billion CFU and 14 probiotic strains, as well as vitamins C and D, and prebiotic fiber, which all contribute to maintaining a healthy immune system
Buy Garden of Life Probiotic for Kids on Amazon
Garden of Life Organic Kids Probiotics is considered one of the best probiotics for kids due to several factors, including its organic ingredients, effectiveness, and taste. The product is formulated by Dr. Perlmutter, a board-certified neurologist and expert in brain health.
It contains 5 billion CFU (colony-forming units) with 14 probiotic strains, which promote immune system and support digestive health. Additionally, it includes 30mg of vitamin C from organic Amla, 400 IU of vitamin D, and prebiotic fiber, all of which help maintain a healthy immune system.
The probiotics are certified USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, and gluten-free, ensuring that they are made without toxic pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, or genetic engineering.
They are also dairy-free, soy-free, and vegetarian, with no added sugar.
This makes them suitable for children with various dietary restrictions and preferences.Parents and children appreciate the taste of these probiotics, which come in a delicious organic berry cherry flavor. The chewable format is convenient and easy for kids to take, making it more likely that they will consistently consume the probiotics.
Garden of Life Organic Kids Probiotics has received positive reviews from customers and nutritionists alike.
Many parents have reported improvements in their children's digestive health and overall well-being after using the product.
It is also recommended by nutritionists as one of the best chewable probiotics for kids
Probiotics is a recommended choice for a probiotic for kids due to several reasons:
-
Immune system and digestive support: The product contains 5 billion CFU (colony-forming units) and 14 probiotic strains that promote immune system and digestive health.
-
Organic and Non-GMO: Garden of Life Organic Kids Probiotics is certified USDA Organic and Non-GMO Project Verified, ensuring that it is made without toxic pesticides, antibiotics, hormones, and genetic engineering.
-
Vitamins and prebiotic fiber: The probiotics contain vitamin C from Organic Amla (30mg), vitamin D (400IU), and prebiotic fiber, which help maintain a healthy immune system.
-
No added sugar: The chewable probiotics have a tasty organic berry cherry flavor and contain no added sugar, making them a healthier option for kids.
-
Positive customer reviews: Many customers have reported improvements in their children's digestive health and overall well-being after using Garden of Life Organic Kids Probiotics.
-
Safe for children: Probiotics are generally considered safe for healthy children, and some studies suggest that they may help with digestion, preventing infectious diseases, and maintaining a healthy weight
Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic® Kid's (Children's Chewable)
Voted Best For: Tummy troubles - constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort
Key Features: Parents like it for abdominal discomfort
Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic® Kid's (Children's Chewable) is a broad-spectrum, hypoallergenic probiotic supplement designed for children aged 2 years and older. It contains a blend of 4 Lactobacillus and 4 Bifidobacterium species, with a total of 25 billion CFU (colony-forming units) per tablet.
It's pretty good but Seed PDS-08 is better and cheaper
Buy Klaire's Ther-biotic in Canada
Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic® Kid's (Children's Chewable) is considered one of the best probiotics for kids due to its hypoallergenic blend of 4 Lactobacillus and 4 Bifidobacterium species, which have been clinically shown to support gastrointestinal health and immune function in children. The supplement is designed for children aged 2 years and older and contains a potent 25 billion CFU blend.
Some of the benefits and features of Klaire Labs Ther-Biotic® Kid's (Children's Chewable) include:
-
Soothing occasional tummy troubles such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort.
-
Supporting healthy gut function, skin health, and immune health.
-
A sweet, natural cherry flavor that is ideal for children or anyone preferring a chewable option.
-
Made without common allergens like milk/casein, eggs, fish, shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat/gluten, soybeans, and sesame.
-
Vegetarian and free from artificial colors and dairy.
Klaire Labs' probiotic quality assurance commitment includes a rigorous independent testing program that monitors and ensures the identity, viability, and hypoallergenicity of raw materials and finished products.
The natural cherry flavor and chewable form make it easy for children to consume, and the product is backed by numerous clinical studies researching the effects on both GI issues and immunity systems in children
Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic
Voted Best For: Long-term health benefits
It contains 6 powerful probiotic strains, all proven to help strengthen and improve your child’s developing digestive system and immune system. Plus, we’ve made sure to add prebiotic fiber to each tablet to fuel the probiotic strains, so they can get to work on repairing your child’s gut health.
Buy LoveBug Probiotics For Your Kid
LoveBug Probiotics Kids Probiotic, also known as Little Ones, is a supplement designed to support children's gut health. It contains 5 clinically studied kid-specific strains and is sugar-free and allergen-free. Probiotic supplementation can help repopulate your child's gut, aid with nutrient absorption, and support their natural defenses, building the foundation of lifelong health.
The Little Ones probiotic comes in the form of a 6mm sphere, which is easy to swallow for most children of chewing age and up. LoveBug also offers a chewable probiotic for kids, which is formulated with 6 powerful probiotic strains and comes in a naturally flavored berry chewable tablet.
This chewable tablet contains more than 10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) in each tablet, along with added fiber
Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic is considered one of the best children's probiotics for several reasons:
-
Formulation: Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic is formulated with 6 powerful probiotic strains, all proven to help strengthen and improve a child's developing digestive system. These strains effectively counter the indiscriminate effects of broad-spectrum antibiotics and other lifestyle choices that can deplete a child's microbiome.
-
Sugar-free and allergen-free: Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic is sugar-free and allergen-free, ensuring that the benefits of the multi-strain clinically studied probiotic are not canceled out before they even reach the child's tummy.
-
Ease of use: The product comes in the form of chewable tablets with a natural berry flavor that kids enjoy. The chewable form makes it easy for children to consume the probiotics daily for optimal digestive, immune, and gut health.
-
High CFU count: Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic contains more than 10 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) in each chewable tablet, along with added fiber. This high CFU count ensures a potent dose of beneficial bacteria for children.
-
Positive reviews: Love Bug Probiotics has received positive reviews from users, indicating that the product is effective and well-liked by children.
-
Recommendations: Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic has been recommended by various sources, such as Kids Eat in Color, as one of the best probiotics for children.
What Is The Best Probiotic Drink For Kids?
Seed PDS-08™ Pediatric Daily Synbiotic is considered the best probiotic drink for kids due to its unique formulation, clinical studies, and ease of use. It is a 2-in-1 powdered synbiotic that combines 9 probiotic strains with a fiber-based prebiotic, specifically designed to support overall gastrointestinal function and healthy digestive responses in children aged 3-17.
The probiotic strains in PDS-08™ have been clinically studied for their benefits in gut, skin, and respiratory health, as well as gut-barrier integrity and gut immune function.
A recent clinical trial demonstrated that PDS-08™ supports healthy GI function and regularity in children with intermittent constipation, without causing any adverse effects or GI distress.
PDS-08™ is also gentle on the GI tract and free from over 20 allergens, including dairy, gluten, sugar, and corn. It contains 5 grams of prebiotic fiber per serving, which helps support the growth of beneficial bacteria and promotes regular, healthy bowel movements.
The powder form of PDS-08™ makes it easy to incorporate into a child's daily routine. It can be mixed into cold or room-temperature drinks, yogurt, applesauce, or other foods, making it a convenient and tasty option for kids.
Additionally, the product is formulated without sugar, additives, or other artificial flavors and colors, ensuring a safe and healthy option for children
What Are The Best Probiotics To stop Diarrhea In Children?
The best probiotics to stop diarrhea in children are Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, Saccharomyces boulardii, Seed PDS-08, and Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic.
The best probiotic supplement for kids diarrhea is Seed PDS-08 but it is a premium probiotic supplement (it really has a LOT of benefits) but if you're strictly looking to stop diarrhea in children that a budget probiotic would be Love Bug Probiotics Kids Probiotic. It's just doesn't have the benefits of Seed probiotics but it is still a great daily probiotic supplement.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG has been proven to have digestive and immune benefits for children in multiple clinical trials. It helps support children's digestive functions and natural defenses to treat and prevent common childhood illnesses.
A study showed that the use of Lactobacillus GG in children with acute diarrhea resulted in a shorter duration and faster improvement in stool consistency.
Saccharomyces boulardii has been shown to be effective in treating acute gastroenteritis in children. A meta-analysis found that the use of Saccharomyces boulardii in children with acute gastroenteritis could effectively shorten diarrhea duration and reduce the length of hospital stay.
Another study found that S. boulardii significantly reduced the duration of acute diarrhea and the duration of hospital stay.
Types of Probiotic Strains For Kids
There are several probiotic strains that may be beneficial for children. Some of the most researched probiotic strains include:
-
Lactobacillus acidophilus
-
Bifidobacterium lactis
-
Saccharomyces boulardii
-
Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus SD-GG-IT in Seed PDS-08)
-
Bifidobacterium infantis Rosell 33
-
Bifidobacterium bifidum Rosell 71
-
Lactobacillus plantarum
-
Lactobacillus casei
Probiotics for kids come in various forms, such as chewable tablets, gummies, melts, powders, and liquids.
It's essential to choose a probiotic supplement that contains strains specifically researched for children and discuss the options with a pediatrician.Probiotics may help with digestion, reduce colic symptoms, prevent diarrhea associated with antibiotics, treat abdominal pain and bloating, and prevent atopic dermatitis and eczema
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
Lactobacillus acidophilus is a type of probiotic bacteria ("good" bacteria) found in the human gut, mouth, and vagina, as well as in certain foods and supplements.
It can help break down food, absorb nutrients, and fight off "bad" organisms that might cause diseases. There are several potential benefits of Lactobacillus acidophilus for kids, including:
-
Digestive health: Probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus can support and nurture a healthy digestive system. They may help ease gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea.
-
Immune health: Some strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus have been shown to reduce the risk and duration of upper respiratory infections in children. Additionally, a combination of three probiotic strains, including L. acidophilus Rosell 52, has been shown to reduce the risk of childhood illnesses and the time taken off school.
-
Reducing symptoms of asthma and allergies: L. acidophilus Rosell 52, along with B. infantis Rosell 33 and B. bifidum Rosell 71, has been shown to reduce wheezing-like symptoms in a clinical trial with 78 children. Lactobacillus reuteri Protectis® has also been shown to significantly reduce bronchial airway inflammation in 43 asthmatic children.
-
Support during antibiotic treatment: Lactobacilli are commonly used as probiotic supplements following antibiotic treatment to restore the gut microbiome balance after diarrheal episodes.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG (LGG)
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a probiotic strain that offers numerous benefits for children's health. It is widely recognized for its ability to improve digestive health and enhance immune function.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a well-known probiotic strain that offers several benefits for children. Some of the key advantages include:
-
Reducing acute childhood diarrhea: A meta-analysis of eight randomized control trials involving 988 children aged 1 to 36 months found that LGG significantly reduced the duration of diarrhea.
-
Preventing and reducing gastrointestinal and respiratory infections: Several studies have shown that LGG can help prevent and reduce the duration and severity of gastrointestinal and respiratory infections in children.
-
Treating and preventing atopic dermatitis (eczema): Supplementation with LGG has been shown to minimize the severity of atopic dermatitis in infants aged 6 to 36 months.
-
Alleviating penicillin-associated changes and reducing antibiotic use: LGG intake has been found to modify preschool children's intestinal microbiota, alleviate penicillin-associated changes, and reduce antibiotic use.
-
Improving cow's milk allergy: LGG supplementation in children aged ≤3 years with cow's milk allergy has been associated with improvements in milk tolerability rates and fecal occult blood rates.
-
Reducing abdominal pain in children with inflammatory bowel disease: LGG may help reduce abdominal pain in children suffering from inflammatory bowel disease.
-
Preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea: LGG has been found to be effective in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea in children and adults.
-
Reducing the risk of respiratory tract infections: LGG has been shown to reduce the risk of respiratory tract infections in children, especially those attending daycare
Bifidobacterium Infantis
Bacterium Infantis, also known as Bifidobacterium infantis, is a top probiotic strain for kids due to its numerous health benefits. It is a lactic-acid-producing gut bacteria that provides essential support for digestive health and building strong immunity in infants and children.
One of the primary reasons B. infantis is crucial for kids is its role in the breakdown of human milk oligosaccharides (sugars in breast milk), which is why it dominates a newborn's microbiome.
This process helps prevent pathogens from invading and settling into the gut, where they can lead to illness.
B. infantis also produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the gut, such as acetic acid, which helps nourish the cells lining the intestines and fights off invading pathogens like yeast and fungus that can cause infections. Acetic acid also functions as an energy source for the baby.
Moreover, B. infantis helps crowd out bad bacteria and prevent it from causing dysbiosis in the gut.
It has been shown to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, such as abdominal pain, gas, and bloating, and may help reduce inflammation in patients with ulcerative colitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and psoriasis.
In a study involving 135 children, a combination of three probiotic strains, including Bifidobacterium infantis, was shown to reduce the risk of childhood illnesses and the time taken off school.
Furthermore, B. infantis has been found to lower the number of premature babies having digestive system development issues by up to 50%.
Given these benefits, B. infantis is considered an essential probiotic strain for kids, promoting a healthy gut microbiome and laying the foundation for a lifetime of good health
Saccharomyces Boulardii
Saccharomyces boulardii (S. boulardii) is a good probiotic strain for kids due to its potential benefits for various digestive conditions and its ability to survive harsh conditions in the stomach. Some of the benefits of S. boulardii for children include:
-
Treating and preventing diarrhea: S. boulardii has been shown to significantly improve symptoms of diarrhea in children with acute gastroenteritis and reduce the duration of diarrhea symptoms and hospitalization time. It has also been found to reduce the duration of acute diarrhea and hospital stay in children.
-
Surviving harsh stomach conditions: S. boulardii can withstand acidic environments, high temperatures, bile, and digestive enzymes, allowing it to reach the intestines alive and provide its benefits.
-
Supporting gut health during antibiotic treatment: S. boulardii may help protect a person's gut flora during antibiotic treatment and aid in restoring the microbiome afterward.
-
Stimulating immunity: S. boulardii has been found to actively stimulate the immune system.
-
Improving nutrient absorption: S. boulardii helps protect the intestinal lining, increases the production of digestive enzymes, and improves the absorption of water and nutrients in the small intestine.
How to Choose the Best Children's Probiotics
Choosing the best probiotics for your kids can be a daunting task, but it is essential to consider factors such as the specific strains, dosage, and form of the probiotic. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision:
-
Choose the right strains: Some of the best probiotic strains for kids include Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium lactis, Saccharomyces boulardii, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG. These strains have been shown to support a healthy gut microbiome and promote overall health.
-
Consider the form: Probiotics for kids are available in various forms, such as chewable tablets, probiotic gummies, liquids, and powders. Choose a form that is easy for your child to consume and fits into your family's routine.
-
Check the dosage: The appropriate dosage for children varies depending on their age and the specific probiotic strain. A general rule of thumb is to use one-quarter of the adult dosage for children up to 6 years of age, half the adult dosage for children 6 to 12 years of age, and a full adult dosage for teens. Consult your pediatrician for the most accurate dosage recommendations.
-
Look for quality and safety: Choose a reputable brand that adheres to industry best practices and guarantees the purity and accuracy of their probiotic products. Avoid probiotics with artificial colors, sweeteners, preservatives, or flavors.
-
Consider probiotic-rich foods: In addition to supplements, consider incorporating probiotic-rich foods into your child's diet, such as yogurt, kefir, pickles, buttermilk, cheese, and sauerkraut
When to Start and Stop Giving Probiotics to Children
When to Start Giving Probiotics to Children
Probiotics can be given to children at different ages depending on their specific needs. For infants, it is generally recommended to consult a pediatrician before introducing probiotics, especially if they have conditions that impact the intestine or digestive tract.
Some probiotics are suitable for children as young as 3 months old, such as Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Kids.
However, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has not recommended probiotics for babies, so it may be best to avoid them during the first few months of life.
When to Stop Giving Probiotics to Children
There is no specific age or time frame to stop giving probiotics to children, as they can be beneficial at any age.
Probiotics can help with digestion, immune system function, and may even reduce the risk of certain conditions like autoimmune diseases, allergies, and asthma.
However, the benefits of probiotics may be strain-specific, and more research is needed to determine the long-term effects of probiotic use in children.
In some cases, a pediatrician may recommend using probiotics for a short time, such as after a course of antibiotics, for about a month.
If you want to continue giving probiotics to your child, it is essential to consult with their healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate course of action.General Guidelines for Giving Probiotics to Children
-
Consult a pediatrician before giving probiotics to your child, especially if they have specific health conditions or are taking medications.
-
Choose probiotics that are specifically designed for children and contain well-researched strains.
-
Gradually introduce probiotics into your child's diet, starting with a small dose and increasing it as recommended by the product or healthcare provider.
-
Consider giving probiotics at mealtime to help with integration into your child's digestive system.
-
Monitor your child for any side effects, such as rash, nausea, gas, bloating, or constipation, and consult a healthcare provider if any concerns arise
Conclusion On Choosing The Best Kids Probiotics
In conclusion, Seed PDS-08, Love Bugs Kids Probiotic, and Culturelle Kids Probiotics are considered some of the best probiotics for children due to their unique formulations, clinically studied strains, and overall health benefits. However, it is essential to consult with a pediatrician before starting any probiotic supplementation for your child, as individual needs may vary
