Probiotics have gained significant attention for their potential health benefits, especially for infants. These beneficial bacteria can support digestive health and boost immunity in little ones. However, not all probiotics are created equal. This blog explores the three best types of probiotics for infants.

What Are Probiotics for Infants?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. In infants, probiotics can help establish a healthy gut microbiota, which plays a crucial role in immune development and digestive function. Choosing the right probiotic strains is essential for reaping the maximum benefits for kiddos.

Lactobacillus reuteri

Lactobacillus reuteri is one of the most well-studied probiotic strains for infants. It naturally inhabits the human gut and has been shown to alleviate symptoms of colic and improve digestive health in little ones.

• Colic Relief: A study published inPediatrics found that infants who received Lactobacillus reuteri experienced a significant reduction in crying time compared to those who did not receive the probiotic. The study concluded that L. reuteri effectively reduces colic symptoms in breastfed infants.

• Digestive Health: Research inJournal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition suggests that Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation can help prevent and treat infantile regurgitation and functional gastrointestinal disorders. The probiotic improves gut motility and reduces episodes of reflux in kiddos.

Bifidobacterium breve

Bifidobacterium breve is another probiotic strain beneficial for infant health. It predominates in the intestines of breastfed infants and contributes to the breakdown of breast milk components.

• Immune Support: According to a study inJournal of Immunology Research, Bifidobacterium breve supplementation in infants enhances immune function by increasing the production of immunoglobulin A (IgA), an important antibody that protects against infections. This probiotic strain boosts the immune response in kiddos, reducing the risk of infections.

• Prevention of Allergies: Research published inPediatric Allergy and Immunology suggests that early supplementation with Bifidobacterium breve may reduce the risk of developing allergic diseases such as eczema and asthma in infants. The probiotic modulates the immune system, promoting tolerance to allergens.

Bifidobacterium infantis

Bifidobacterium infantis is commonly found in the gastrointestinal tract of breastfed infants and plays a crucial role in infant gut health.

• Colic Management: A randomized controlled trial published inJournal of the American Medical Associationfound that supplementation with Bifidobacterium infantis significantly reduced crying time and improved symptoms of colic in breastfed infants. The probiotic promotes a balanced gut microbiota, alleviating colic symptoms.

• Reduced Risk of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC): NEC is a serious gastrointestinal condition that primarily affects premature infants. According to a study inPediatrics, supplementation with Bifidobacterium infantis reduces the incidence and severity of NEC in preterm infants. The probiotic enhances gut barrier function and reduces inflammation in the intestines, protecting kiddos from NEC.

Summary

Lactobacillus reuteri, Bifidobacterium breve, and Bifidobacterium infantis are three of the best types of probiotics for infants, backed by scientific research. These probiotic strains support digestive health, alleviate colic symptoms, boost immune function, and reduce the risk of allergic diseases and NEC in little ones. It’s best to consult with your personal physician before incorporating probiotics into infant nutrition.

References

1. Pediatrics: "Effect of Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 in Infants with Colic" (2007)
2. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition: "Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 for Treating Infantile Regurgitation" (2014)
3. Journal of Immunology Research: "Effect of Bifidobacterium breve on the Intestinal Microbiota of Colostrum-Fed Infants" (2018)
4. Pediatric Allergy and Immunology: "Prevention of Allergic Disease During Infancy" (2010)
5. Journal of the American Medical Association: "Probiotics and Colic" (2017)
6. Pediatrics: "Bifidobacterium infantis Reduces Necrotizing Enterocolitis" (2010)