Navigating through the early stages of parenthood can be tricky, especially when deciding what's best for your baby's health. One topic that has stirred considerable debate among parents and health professionals is using probiotics for newborns. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits by maintaining a balance of good bacteria in the digestive tract. They can be found in fermented foods, including yogurt, kimchi, and dietary supplements.
But are probiotic supplements safe for your little one?
Are Probiotics for Newborn Safe?
Probiotics are often considered safe for infants, as they naturally occur in breast milk and infant formula. Certain strains, such as Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus, are generally considered safe and without negative side effects. In fact, research indicates that probiotics are safe and well-tolerated in normal, healthy babies and children, and good tolerance has also been observed in premature infants. Thus, probiotics may benefit newborns, given that they're born with a sterile gastrointestinal system that might be susceptible to distress.
Potential Benefits of Infant Probiotics
1. Gut Health
Probiotics can help create a healthy balance of gut bacteria in infants, which is crucial for digestion and the immune system. Some studies suggest that probiotics could lead to improvements in nutrition and a reduction in gastrointestinal issues.
2. Helps Prevent Urinary Infections
While the research in this area is not extensive, some studies suggest that probiotics supplementation might help in preventing urinary tract infections. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
3. May Help Prevent Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Probiotics are believed to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut, which the disease can disrupt. For instance, a study published in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that supplementing infant formula with Bifidobacterium can positively affect rotavirus shedding in infants admitted to the hospital. This suggests that probiotics could also benefit other gastrointestinal conditions in infants.
4. Prevent Eczema and Allergic Diseases
According to a review from the Cochrane Library, probiotics added to infant feeds may help prevent infant eczema. This could be because probiotics help balance the gut microbiota, which is crucial to the body's immune response.
Also, some research suggests that using probiotics in women who breastfeed infants at high risk of developing allergies could reduce the risk.
5. Promote Weight Gain
Some studies found evidence of benefit from probiotics in weight gain, particularly for infants weighing 501 g to 750 g at birth.
It's important to remember that while potential benefits are associated with using a probiotic supplement in infants, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a probiotic regimen for your baby, as responses can vary greatly between individuals.
6. Benefits for Preterm Infants
Probiotics may provide benefits for preterm infants, potentially leading to improvements in their health status. For instance, preterm infants are most likely to develop necrotizing enterocolitis due to antibiotic administration after birth and the limited development of normal digestive microorganisms. Probiotic supplements can help develop these microorganisms.
7. Prevent Diarrhea
A review in the journal ISRN Nutrition found that probiotics could help reduce the incidence and duration of infectious diarrhea in infants. For example, some studies found that the usage of probiotic supplements helps in preventing antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Side Effects of Probiotics for Infants
- Gastrointestinal issues. Some infants may experience gastrointestinal side effects like gas and bloating. In a study on α-Lactalbumin-enriched and probiotic-supplemented infant formula, some infants presented at least one GI side effect.
- Treatment-related side effects. Certain strains of probiotics may have potential treatment-related side effects, though the specifics of these are not detailed in the studies.
- Interactions with other treatments. Probiotics may interact with certain treatments, which could potentially lead to side effects. However, this requires further investigation.
Best Probiotics for Infants Recommendations
1. BioGaia Protectis Probiotic Drops
These probiotic drops have undergone 229 clinical trials and are safe for newborns. It contains sunflower oil, medium chain triglyceride oil, Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, vitamin D, and vitamin E.
- Relieves colic, split-ups, and occasional constipation and diarrhea
- Non-GMO ingredients
- No artificial colors, flavors, dairy, or soy
2. HMF BABY F (formula) 66g
This probiotic supplement is specially designed for formula-fed infants. It contains a mixture of five probiotic strains, including Bifidobacterium breve, Bifidobacterium bifidum, Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. This blend provides 10 billion CFU per dose. It also contains fructooligosaccharides as prebiotic ingredients.
- Improves the gut microbiota, boosts immune function, and eases digestive issues
- Non-GMO and gluten-free
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
3. HMF BABY B (Breastfeed) 6g
This supplement is intended for breastfeeding infants to help establish a healthy gut microbiome, which aids in proper digestion and immune function. It contains two scientifically researched probiotic strains, Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus rhamnosus.
- Promotes healthy weight gain and supports immune function
- Produced by pharmaceutical-grade manufacturing process
- Free from artificial sweeteners and dairy
4. METAGENICS Metakids Baby Probiotic 5.65ml
Metakids Baby Probiotic is a blend of Bifidobacterium lactis and Lactobacillus rhamnosus. It is formulated with vitamin D for immune support and bone health. This formula helps establish a balanced gut microbiota in infants and children.
- Helps to support overall well-being and gastrointestinal health function
- Made of non-GMO and gluten-free ingredients
- Free from artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, and sweeteners
5. Orange Naturals – Baby Probiotics + D3 Drops, 10ml
These probiotic drops come with an addition of vitamin D3, which is necessary for the healthy development of bones and teeth. It includes three well-researched strains chosen for their safety, efficacy, and ability to support young children's health.
- Supports digestive health and immune function and helps in the absorption and use of calcium and phosphorus
- All-natural formula with non-GMO and gluten-free ingredients
- No artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors, and they are free from common allergens like dairy and soy.
Final Thoughts
As a parent, your child's health is of utmost importance. Baby probiotics can indeed be safe and beneficial, but treating them as part of an overall health plan is essential. Always consult with your pediatrician before adding probiotics to your baby's diet.
Remember, healthy infants have a diverse, balanced microbiome essential for developing healthy immune systems. As your little one grows, you can continue exploring the benefits of probiotics and other supplements to aid their overall development.
Don't hesitate to keep your baby's health in check with the best probiotics from Luminate Co. Visit our website and explore the best range of probiotics for infants today.
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