Probiotics for kids: all you need to know

Although research on probiotics for children is not as developed as that of probiotics in adults (science has not said all children to take, from a preventive point of view), if you are looking for a probiotic for kids, there are a few things to keep in mind.

To make sure you get a quality probiotic for kids, look for products that contain the same strains as those used in studies (ideally with a UFC value similar to that used in the study. , ie "colony forming units"). ). For example, you may have noticed Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG appear several times in the positive results of the study for certain problems, such as the prevention of respiratory tract infections and the management of irritable bowel syndrome. Many probiotics designed for children include this strain and this species (as it should be).

It is also important to remember that probiotics are quite delicate (they are living bacteria, so they must be able to survive the manufacturing process, your storage method and, ultimately, your stomach acid before you can colonize your intestines). To ensure you get a high-quality product that is alive and well (and safe for children), look for professional brands recommended by healthcare professionals or brands that are being tested by third parties.

Dr. Singh recommends caution when using probiotics in children, especially those who are immunocompromised because, although rare, complications may occur. The main concern is the contamination and the quality of the products. "I suggest consulting your pediatrician before making a particular choice of probiotics for your child," says Dr. Singh. "There are some probiotics that are better for specific conditions, always try to stick to trusted companies and look at the labels of certifications like NSF, USP, QAI and / or GMP certified." especially chewing types. "

Given the many benefits of probiotics for adults that have been studied and proven, it is no wonder that children's probiotics are attracting attention and as more research will be published, the benefits will be many.