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Should I Give My Baby Probiotics?
Read time: 3 minutes
Probiotics are incredibly popular, but are there any benefits for babies?
As parents and caregivers, we want to do everything that we can for our babies to ensure that they are happy and healthy. Whether you’re breastfeeding or formula feeding, your baby’s overall gut health supports their digestion and overall well-being.1
In babies and adults alike, our guts are composed of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria. These microorganisms play a vital role in our overall health, but most notably, certain bacteria have been associated with health benefits.2
Why is gut health important for my baby?
The first 1000 days are a critical window for developing baby’s gut microbiome (the trillions of microorganisms living inside our intestinal tract).3
The development of the gut microbiome plays an important role in helping shape the immune system and has been linked to long-term health benefits.11 On the flip side, disruptions to the gut microbiota during this time may have lasting effects.34
How do newborns develop their microbiome?
The primary colonization of an infant’s gut occurs at delivery when baby is exposed to mom’s vaginal microbiome.3 Babies born via C-section may have a different profile of their gut microbiome since they were not exposed to the vaginal canal.10
After delivery, other factors that contribute to the development of the gut microbiome include:
Feeding methods such as breastfeeding or formula with probiotics
Exposure to antibiotics
Starting solid foods.3
Do you have questions about breastfeeding, formula feeding, or introducing solids? Our team of registered dietitian nutritionists, fellow moms, and lactation specialists are available from Monday – Friday 8 am – 6 pm (ET) on our free live chat to help figure out what may be going on. Chat now!
What are probiotics, and how can they benefit my baby?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, provide benefits.5
While research on probiotics in infants continues to evolve, existing evidence indicates that certain strains can support immune system development, digestive health, and the establishment of a healthy microbiome.
Sources of probiotics for babies include:
Infant formulas fortified with probiotics
Supplements like probiotic drops (always ask your pediatrician before starting)
Yogurts that have added probiotics(6+ months)
Breastmilk contains live microorganisms that can affect the composition of baby’s intestinal microbiota, helping to form baby’s microbiome.789
When, and for how long, should I give my baby probiotics?
If you are considering giving your baby a probiotic supplement, always consult the pediatrician before starting. Discuss how to start, reasons for use, what strains might be helpful, how often and how much to give, potential side effects, and how long to give them for.
While we know the impact gut health can have on baby’s long-term health, the decision and reasons to give your baby probiotics are personal and not a one-size-fits-all. It’s important to seek professional medical advice from your baby’s doctor before starting any new regimen or supplement.
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We know parenting often means sleepless nights, stressful days, and countless questions and confusion, and we want to support you in your feeding journey and beyond.
Our Happy Experts are a team of lactation consultants and registered dietitian nutritionists certified in infant and maternal nutrition – and they’re all moms, too! They’re here to offer personalized support on our free, one-on-one, live chat platform Monday - Friday 8am-6pm (ET). No appointment needed, no email or sign-up required. Chat Now!
Read more about the experts who help write our content!
For more on this topic, check out the following articles:
Probiotics and Prebiotics for Kids 101
Switching Baby Formula and What To Expect
Breastfeeding Benefits for Mom & Baby - What is in Breastmilk?
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