Can You Add Prebiotics to Baby’s First Foods? (Yes, Here’s How)

When it comes to supporting your baby’s gut health, prebiotics can often be an underrated tool. You might already know that prebiotics are special types of fiber that feed beneficial gut bacteria, helping support digestion, immune function, and better stool (1). But can you add prebiotics to your baby’s first foods when starting solids?

The answer is yes and it is a simple, gentle way to support their gut health from day one of solids.

Why Prebiotics Matter for Babies

• Help feed beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium, which play a critical role in digestion, immune support, and gut health

• Support the development of a balanced microbiome during a crucial window of growth

• Can help prevent common digestive issues like constipation when starting solids

Natural Prebiotic Foods for Babies

Many first foods naturally contain prebiotics, including:

• Bananas (especially slightly green)

• Oats

• Sweet potatoes

• Beans, lentils, peas (well-cooked and mashed)

• Avocado

These foods gently feed good gut bacteria while also delivering fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Using a Prebiotic Supplement with First Foods

In addition to prebiotic foods, parents can add a baby-safe prebiotic + probiotic supplement like Beginbaby Prebiotics + Probiotics to support gut health even further. This is especially helpful for:

• Formula-fed or combo-fed babies who may not get the same amount of nutrients like HMOs found in breastmilk

• Babies prone to constipation when starting solids

• Supporting a balanced gut microbiome as baby’s diet expands

How to Add Beginbaby Prebiotics + Probiotics to Baby’s First Foods

• Mix into purees: Stir a pack into mashed avocado, sweet potato, carrots, or banana.

• Add to yogurt (if dairy has been introduced): Mix in for a gut-friendly snack.

• Mix into breastmilk or formula before offering solids at a meal.

• Stir into small amounts of water offered with meals, starting around 6 months.

Beginbaby Prebiotics + Probiotics can be added to breastmilk, formula, or your baby’s first soft foods. It contains HMOs which are prebiotics found in breastmilk and two types of bifidobacteria to help babies build a healthier microbiome during infancy. 

Summary

Yes, you can absolutely add prebiotics to your baby’s first foods. Whether through fiber-rich whole foods like bananas and oats or by mixing in a prebiotic supplement like Beginbaby Prebiotics + Probiotics, supporting your baby’s gut health with prebiotics is simple, safe, and effective. Early gut support can help with smoother digestion, fussiness, and building a resilient immune system as your baby grows.