Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate...
Gut health refers to the balance and functionality of the digestive system,...
Probiotics are supplements that contain microorganisms
that can help with a child's health. They can be used to treat and prevent
a variety of conditions in children, including gastrointestinal issues,
antibiotic-associated diarrhea, and atopic dermatitis.
Benefits
Gastrointestinal issues: Probiotics can help with acute gastroenteritis,
Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Atopic dermatitis: Probiotics
may help prevent atopic dermatitis and eczema.
Necrotizing enterocolitis: Probiotics may help reduce the risk of
necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants.
Colic: Probiotics
may help reduce symptoms of colic in infants.
Helicobacter pylori: Probiotics
may help with Helicobacter pylori eradication when used with standard therapy.
Irritable bowel syndrome: Lactobacillus species may help treat irritable
bowel syndrome.
Safety
Probiotics
are generally safe for healthy children.
Probiotics are not as tightly regulated as
medications.
Dosing
The recommended dose for children is usually a quarter
of the adult dose for children up to 6 years old, half the adult dose for
children 6 to 12 years old, and the full adult dose for teens.
Strain
specificity
The most effective strain depends on the condition
being treated. For example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is considered
the most effective probiotic for treating acute viral gastroenteritis.