Probiotics are All the Rage These Days and Many Pediatric Gastroenterologists Swear By Them.
What are Probiotics?
They’re the “good” bacteria (naturally found in our guts) that keep our digestive tracts running smoothly. Exogenous forms of probiotics include capsules, powders, and yogurt/kefir.
Insider Info: “Prebiotics” are also a thing these days. They’re the precursor to probiotics and have been found to promote healthy digestion as well. Prebiotics are found in whole grains, bananas, onions, and garlic.
So, Should I Give My Toddler a Probiotic (or a Prebiotic)?
Probiotics and prebiotics both seem to have health benefits but it’s unclear to what degree.
If your child is healthy, probiotics will probably help with their digestion and won’t cause any worrisome side effects.
They’re particularly helpful when kids are sick and on antibiotics.
Why? Because antibiotics tend to kill off the good bacteria (as well as the bad bacteria) in the stomach, producing abdominal pain and diarrhea. Probiotics restore the good bacteria in the gut and help minimize the GI side effects of the antibiotics.
A Word of Caution:
Not all kids are candidates for probiotics (or prebiotics). For example, kids who are immunocompromised (i.e. who have a weakened immune system) are often told to avoid them.1 Therefore, make sure to get the thumbs up from the pediatrician before you give your little one a probiotic (or a prebiotic).
