The beneficial effects of bacteria fermenting milk have been known for centuries. Later studies only confirmed this, and yogurt consumption has been recommended in antibiotic therapy and intestinal infections treatment. The high concentration of bacteria makes it possible to fight pathogens and rebuild the weakened intestinal flora. Further research has led to the creation of probiotics.
Probiotics are live bacteria cultures that positively affect human health, especially the digestive and immune systems. They boost the natural bacterial flora. These include carefully selected strains of bacteria, such as Lactobacillus casei, Lactobacillus rhamnosus gg, and Lactobacillus Plantarum, among others.
Probiotics for babies, toddlers, and children are mainly prescribed during antibiotic therapy because they protect the natural microflora. However, modern medicine recommends their consumption not only during antibiotic treatment but also for prophylaxis and building the body’s immunity.
Probiotics also increase the production of antibodies and improve the functioning of the immune system cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages. They also seal the intestinal barrier, reducing the chance of pathogenic microorganisms entering the human body through the intestine. Such immunity stimulation is invaluable in children who come into contact with millions of bacteria daily, and their immune system is just being formed and strengthened. Thanks to probiotics, the child can endure infections more gently.
Naturally born and breastfed babies have more beneficial bacteria in their gut. Therefore, probiotics are often added to baby formulas for newborns, babies, and toddlers. One such product is HiPP Stage 3 Dutch. Probiotics can be used from the first days of life.
The parents should keep in mind that the composition of the child’s gut microbiota changes all the time, affected by numerous factors, including stress, food, and hormones. For this reason, probiotic therapy should be individually tailored to the particular case and the baby’s health condition. It is best to start probiotic therapy under the doctor’s supervision.
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