Ask The Expert- Probiotics for Kids: The Secret Weapon for Early Gut Health and Overall Wellness!

When prescribing antibiotics for children, we base the dosage on the child's body weight and select the type and duration of the medication based on the specific infection. If a child experiences frequent acute tonsillitis, it is advisable to consult a doctor about the possibility of tonsil removal. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms, including various bacteria and yeast, that help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. They can also help restore the "good" bacteria that may be diminished after a course of antibiotics. Probiotics are commonly found in fermented foods such as kefir, yogurt, tempeh, kimchi, miso, natto, and certain fermented seaweeds. Additionally, probiotics are available as supplements; however, it's important to choose clinically proven products. Some research also shows that probiotics may improve antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal disturbance like diarrhea. It's important to note that antibiotics do not cause anemia.

Antibiotics are prescribed to treat bacterial infections. During an acute infection, such as acute gastroenteritis, certain clinically proven probiotics can be beneficial in preventing and improving antibiotic-associated gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea. Introducing probiotics during or after antibiotic treatment is an effective strategy to replenish the beneficial bacteria that may have been diminished. This restoration is crucial, as a well-balanced gut microbiome plays a key role in nutrient absorption, digestion, and the immune response. The recommended dosage of these probiotics, such as Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG or Saccharomyces boulardii, varies depending on the specific type used. For acute gastroenteritis, the typical duration of probiotic use is around one week. To prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea, probiotics should be initiated within 48-72 hours of starting antibiotic treatment and continued for a few days, generally not exceeding four weeks. When in

Probiotics can indeed support the development of a child's immune system and have been shown to be effective in specific situations, such as during bacterial infections or to reduce the risk of diarrhea associated with antibiotic use. Studies have shown that probiotics are beneficial in building immunity which in turn may reduce the chances of common illnesses. Having a robust and diverse gut microbiome supports long term health and well-being.

Probiotic supplementation can be introduced as early as the newborn period for specific clinical conditions, such as infant colic. Probiotics are live beneficial microorganisms such as certain bacteria and yeast that contribute to a balanced gut microbiome. Probiotics are naturally found in various fermented foods, eg kefir, tempeh, miso, kimchi, yogurt etc. Incorporating probiotic-rich foods into a child's diet can support and maintain gut health. Including a diverse range of fruits and vegetables in a balanced diet is recommended, as they provide a broader spectrum of microbial species than probiotic supplements alone. Furthermore, reduce the intake of processed and artificially sweetened foods such as junk food, cookies, fast food, soft drinks etc which will encourage bad bacteria and suppress immunity.

Eczema may be associated with poor gut health. Promising research has found that certain probiotics are able to help relieve eczema symptoms. Probiotic supplementation during late pregnancy and in newborns has been found to help prevent the onset of eczema in infants. Prevention is better than cure!

Probiotic supplements can be taken before, during, or after meals, and can be administered either in the morning or at night. It is important to avoid mixing them with very hot or very cold liquids or foods, as extreme temperatures may destroy the live bacteria in the probiotic supplement.

Studies have shown that breastfeeding is important in supplying early nutrition for optimal development of a baby's intestinal microbiome and immune function. Breast milk provides babies with beneficial bacteria, for example Bifidobacteria & Lactobacilli that enhances their health by promoting gut colonisation of beneficial microbes. Besides, breast milk is rich in prebiotics, such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which serve as food for beneficial bacteria in the infant’s gut. These prebiotics promote the growth of a balanced microbiota, which is essential for the infant's overall health, immune function, and development. Evidence has shown that maternal probiotic supplementation during pregnancy and/or lactation can influence bacterial populations in the infant's gut microbiota and reduce Staphylococcal counts in the breast milk of women with mastitis. While the body of evidence is still growing, current research underscores the importance of breastfeeding in the early stag

Probiotic supplements can be administered starting from the newborn period, with the recommendation or advice from your doctor. Probiotics may be considered for a baby with infant colic, a child with acute gastroenteritis, or a child experiencing diarrhea during antibiotic treatment. The infant gut is highly receptive to beneficial bacteria in the early stages of life, making this period ideal for establishing a diverse and balanced microbial community which in turn can support a stronger immune system.

Allergic rhinitis is increasingly common in children and has been linked to the development of gastroesophageal reflux disease. One of the possible reasons may be due to low immunity and research is being done to support this corelation. Supplementing with probiotics can be considered in the development of children’s immunity.