Over the past few years, gut health has become increasingly important; it's not just for health nuts anymore. Probiotics are taken by many adults every day. Healthy gut bacteria can have a big impact on overall health and can even boost immunity. Guess what? Children can also enjoy those benefits.
Sure, you've heard the advice before: start your baby on probiotics to help their digestion and support their immune system. But what are probiotics, exactly? And which ones are best for your little one? Here's everything you need to know about infant probiotics!
Mommy's Bliss Baby Probiotic Drops
Formulted for Digestive Health & Immunity Support
Great Things About This Product
Its packaging is one of the things I like best about this probiotic. Mommy's Bliss Baby Probiotic Drops Everyday are a great way to help your baby's digestion and support their immune health.
The probiotic strain is the most researched and is recommended by pediatricians. The drops are easy to use and flavorless, so your baby won't even know they're taking them.
They're also a great value for the money.
Good Things to Know
Mommy's Bliss probiotic drops are a wonderful woman-owned and woman-run business. Thus, they have a better understanding of moms' needs.
Whether your baby is a newborn or an older child, you know you will be providing them with what they need with this easy-to-use product.
Pros
- Babies can use this product from the day they are born.
- Support baby's Immune system
Cons
- No flavor available
Great Things About This Product
The BioGaia Protectis Probiotic Drops are great for infants and newborns who suffer from colic, spit-up, constipation, and digestive discomfort.
The drops are made with non-GMO ingredients and are free of artificial colors, flavors, dairy, and soy. The probiotic L. reuteri Protectis is the most clinically studied probiotic for colic and has been shown to reduce crying and fussing in colicky babies. The drops can also help to ease occasional constipation and diarrhea.
Vitamin D is included in the drops to help support bone health. The drops are easy to use, just five drops once daily.
It is a great product for breastfeeding mothers. For breast-fed babies, it is recommended that they take a daily vitamin D supplement, which this product contains (for formula babies, vitamin D is already present). Instead of giving two separate supplements, you can just use one! The product can be used in pumped milk, on a spoon, or even applied to the nipple before breastfeeding.
Good Things to Know
There are strains of lactic acid bacteria found in BioGaia's products (Lactobacillus reuteri, formerly known as Lactobacillus reuteri). L. reuteri is one of the few bacteria that has co-evolved with humans, which creates its natural ability to colonize, adapt, and interact with us.
Pros
- Made with non-GMO ingredients
- Vitamin D is included
- It contains 50 days of supply
Cons
- Price is slightly above average
Lovebug Organic Probiotic for Babies
Convenient Paked in Individual Stick Packs
Great Things About This Product
Lovebug Organic Probiotic for Babies is one of the best baby probiotics because it is USDA organic certified and sugar-free. It is also easy to use and tasteless. The individual stick packs make it easy to give your baby the right serving of probiotics daily. This product is also award-winning and trusted by moms everywhere.
The benefits of using this product are that it can help improve colic, diarrhea, eczema, constipation, and digestive upset. It can also help to strengthen immune health.
Good Things to Know
Lovebug Organic Probiotic for Babies is free of artificial flavors and colors. The probiotic is packaged individually in powder form, making dosing easy. The powder can be mixed with any food or drink (as long as they are not hot).
Remember, while this blend is designed for infants 6-12 months of age, the company offers other products for older children.
Pros
Promotes a healthy digestive system
- Sugar-free
- Boosts immunity
Cons
- No flavor available
Culturelle Baby Probiotics Drops
Help to Reduce Symptoms of Stomach Upset in Babies and Infants
Great Things About This Product
Culturelle Baby Digestive Calm and Comfort Probiotics Drops help reduce colic, gas, fussiness, crying, and digestive upset in babies and infants. The probiotic strain present in the drops is gentle and safe for babies, working to boost digestion and alleviate occasional digestive upset. This can help reduce crying and fussiness associated with colic and other digestive issues.
The probiotic drops are easy to use. Simply dispense five drops onto a spoon or into the baby's mouth once a day.
Culturelle Baby Probiotics Drops are designed for babies 0-12 months and can help support healthy development.
The probiotic drops are gluten, dairy, soy, and non-GMO. Using the probiotic drops daily can provide your baby with a strong foundation of health.
Aside from the most clinically studied probiotic strain available, these probiotic drops also contain chamomile extract. In addition to calming babies, chamomile can reduce gas formation in their stomachs.
Good Things to Know
Culturelle Baby Probiotics Drops is one of the top pediatrician-recommended baby probiotics, you can feel confident about buying it. It is comforting to know that you can reduce the symptoms that are most commonly responsible for fussiness and crying in your baby.
Pros
- Boost digestion
- It contains chamomile-extract
- Gluten-free
- Help to reduce symptoms of stomach upset
Cons
- The dropper is not available
Great Things About This Product
The Gerber Good Start Soothe Probiotics Baby Comforting Probiotic Drops are a great way to ease colic, excessive crying, and frequent spit-ups in your infant.
The liquid probiotics L. reuteri is clinically studied and has been shown to be effective in reducing these issues.
The Gerber Soothe drops are non-GMO and also contain probiotics similar to those found in breast milk.
This product is safe for use from birth for healthy infants. The Gerber probiotic drops are made with ingredients that new moms can trust.
Good Things to Know
There is no doubt that Gerber products are of the highest quality because they comply with all regulations set by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
From farm to spoon, there are five stages of quality and safety checks. Even there are over 100 quality checks performed on each baby food product.
Pros
- At a Great Price
Cons
- The dropper can be finicky
Wellements Organic Probiotic Drops
Made With Organic Ingredients / Supports Digestive and Immune Health
Great Things About This Product
Wellements Organic Probiotic Drops are designed to support your infant's or toddler's digestive and immune health. This probiotic blend is combined with organic olive oil to create a simple, safe, and effective formula. The organic ingredients make this product ideal for families who are looking for a natural way to support their child's health.
This probiotic powder contains no preservatives, dyes, or parabens and is certified by the USDA. There are no unnecessary fillers or ingredients in it. It contains two strains of probiotics that will improve your child's gut health and boost his immune system. Additionally, it relieves gas pains.
It is safe for infants and newborns to use this Wellements product. Using these drops only once a day makes them easy and convenient.
Pros
- Supports digestive and immune health
- Made with organic ingredients
- Simple, safe, and effective formula
- Free from dyes, parabens, preservatives
- 0.25 fl oz size makes it easy to administer to your child
Cons
- It needs to be refrigerated, which some people may find uneasy
Nordic Naturals Probiotic Powder
Great for Picky Eaters Due to Odorless and Tasteless Powder
Great Things About This Product
Nordic Naturals Probiotic Powder is perfect for picky eaters as it is virtually undetectable due to its odorless and tasteless powder form.
Some of the unique features and benefits of this product include:
- Four billion CFU of two widely researched probiotic strains are safe and effective for developing babies and young children.
- It supports digestive health by promoting gastrointestinal health and balancing the gut microbiome in babies and toddlers.
- It supports the immune system by resistance to common infections and additional immune support for babies attending daycare.
- Committed to ethical innovation and delivering safe, effective nutrients for optimal wellness.
Good Things to Know
Nordic Naturals product is non-GMO and third-party tested, surpassing the strictest international standards for purity and freshness.
This company is committed to ethical innovation and delivering safe, adequate nutrients for optimal wellness.
Pros
- It contains non-GMO ingredients
- Tasteless
Cons
- Available in just powder form
Great Things About This Product
The best infant probiotics contain the clinically proven* strain activated B. infantis EVC001, the good bacteria essential to newborns and babies that can crowd out harmful bacteria linked to colic, gas, eczema, diaper rash, and allergies.
Evivo infant probiotic is quality tested and contains 8 billion CFUs of activated B. infantis EVC001, a live bacteria stored cold for potency so that it can start working immediately to improve gut function within days of feeding to your baby.
The infant starter kit comes with 28 individually wrapped packets for a 4-week supply of Evivo baby probiotics which you can keep in your freezer or refrigerator until ready to use.
Good Things to Know
Evivo baby probiotics are clinically proven to protect your baby's gut from potentially harmful bacteria.
Pros
- It can be used straight from the freezer
- Come with a bowl and syringe
Cons
- More expensive
- It contains milk and soy
Buyers guide
Buying probiotics for infants can be a daunting task. There are so many products on the market, and it can be hard to know which one is right for your child.
We've put together this buyer's guide to the best infant probiotics to make things easier. We'll cover everything you need to know about these supplements, including how they work, the potential risks and benefits, and what to look for when choosing a product. By the end of this guide, you'll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about whether or not probiotics are suitable for your baby. Check for the following things before buying the product.
Safety & Clinical Studies
Although the FDA does not regulate probiotics, numerous studies have demonstrated that they are safe and effective as a remedy for various conditions. Among the best probiotic products, BioGaia and Culturelle were rated "A" by researchers for their effectiveness against gastrointestinal disorders, including infectious diarrhea.
Ingredients & Formulation
Two of the most common bacteria used in baby probiotics are Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. They're also among the most studied ones.
CFU Count
It is also one of the vital things to look for is a product that contains live and active cultures. These are the beneficial bacteria that are responsible for keeping the gut healthy. The number of CFUs in probiotics varies, but most contain millions or billions per serving. Often, this number refers to the number of CFUs in milliliters, grams, or servings of a product. A probiotic supplement's CFU is its estimated number of microorganisms.
Besides these, another thing to look for is a product that is designed specifically for infants. Some probiotics are designed for adults and may not be as effective for infants.
Finally, read the label carefully to ensure that the probiotic you are considering is safe for infants. With a bit of research, you can find the right probiotic for your infant and help keep their gut healthy.
What Are Probiotics?
You may have seen the word "probiotic" on yogurt or other food labels and may have heard that they are good for you. But what are these mysterious creatures? Probiotics are a supplement that is readily available not only for children but also for adults as well. Probiotics are live microorganisms (good bacteria or yeast) that are similar to the ones that already live in your gut. When you eat foods containing probiotics or a probiotic supplement, these live microorganisms colonize your gut and can have various health benefits.
Generally, probiotics create healthy bacteria in the digestive tract that can aid digestion, destroy harmful bacteria or produce vitamins. There are different strains of probiotics, which have varying effects on the body.
The most common strains of probiotics in baby supplements include:
- Lactobacillus
- Saccharomyces
- Bifidobacterium
Probiotics are found in naturally fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut.
Benefits of Probiotic Supplements for Babies
As any parent knows, their baby's health is always a top priority. Probiotic supplements can be a great way to promote gut health in infants and young children. Here are some of the benefits of probiotic supplements for babies:
Immune system support
Probiotics can help to support the development and function of the immune system. This is especially important for babies, who are still building up their immunity.
If Your Baby Has Colic
"Colic is defined as three or more hours of crying per day on three or more days of the week for a period of three weeks in an otherwise healthy, well-fed infant.
If you're looking to prevent colic in the first place, you can use probiotics, but there is no strong evidence that it is helpful for colic.
Digestive support
Probiotics can also help to ease digestive discomfort and promote regularity. This is especially helpful for babies who are starting to eat solid foods.
Acute Gastroenteritis
Diarrhea or vomiting (or both) lasting longer than seven days is considered acute gastroenteritis. You should always talk to your doctor if your baby is experiencing these symptoms, and there is some evidence that probiotics can help you in this situation.
Gut health
Probiotics can help to maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria. This is important for overall health and well-being.
Some of the other most well-known benefits of probiotics include improved digestion and reduced symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and inflammation. However, researchers are still exploring all of the ways in which probiotics can improve babies' health.
There are many different probiotic supplements available on the market today. Talk to your pediatrician to see if a probiotic supplement is right for your baby.
Types of Probiotic Supplements for Babies
A probiotic is a type of microorganism that is live and similar to the good bacteria that is naturally occurring in the intestine. They can be taken in supplement form and are sometimes added to foods such as yogurt. Taking probiotics may help to improve gut health and reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
Probiotic supplements come in many different forms, such as capsules, tablets, liquids, and powders. Some products also combine probiotics with other ingredients, such as prebiotics or fiber. When choosing a probiotic supplement, consider what type of supplement is best and appropriate for your child according to their age. Because if it's not age-appropriate, it may be harmful to your child.
Risks of using probiotics
While probiotic supplements are good for gastrointestinal issues, they can also have the opposite effect and cause the following side effects:
- Stomach upset
- Gastric distress
- Bloating Gas
In the first few days after taking probiotics, your baby's tummy may experience these symptoms, but they usually disappear once they begin to tolerate the additional microorganisms. The following are possible risks of using probiotic supplements:
- Developing resistance to antibiotics
- Developing an infection
- Developing harmful metabolic byproducts
What Should I Know Before Giving Probiotics To My Child?
While probiotics are generally considered safe, there is still much that researchers do not know about them. As a result, it is essential to speak with a healthcare professional before giving probiotics to a child. Probiotics should also be used with caution in children with weak immune systems or taking certain medications, such as antibiotics.
It is not recommended to give probiotics to babies who are seriously or chronically ill unless your pediatrician determines that their benefits are outweighed by their risks.
In most cases, however, probiotics are safe for children and can be a helpful addition to their diet.
Probiotics for Babies: When Should They Be Taken?
Your baby's needs will determine what you should do. If your baby experiences diarrhea after taking antibiotics, your healthcare provider might recommend probiotics. Follow your pediatrician's instructions whether they recommend daily or just a few times a week. The gut microbiome of your baby can be affected by eating fermented foods, such as sauerkraut, or taking dietary supplements that contain probiotics. Please consult your doctor before giving them to your child.
Is it safe to give probiotic drops to newborns?
In fact, probiotics are an essential part of your baby's microbiome, so there is no minimum age limit for their use. They are naturally found in breast milk in abundance. If your baby was born prematurely or has metabolic, digestive, or immune conditions, it is best to ask your healthcare provider whether probiotics are appropriate for them.
Infant Probiotic FAQs
Parents are always looking for ways to improve their child's health, and probiotics are a popular choice.
There is a lot of conflicting information out there about probiotics, and it can be hard to figure out which ones are the best for your child.
We created this report to answer the most frequently asked questions about infant probiotics. This report will help you decide if infant probiotics are right for your child and teach you how to choose the right product for your family.
Do Probiotics Cause Gastric Distress?
Probiotics are usually not associated with gastric distress. You can even use them to alleviate gastrointestinal problems. Their use may, however, trigger stomach upset, gastric distress, bloating, and gas in the first few days.
What are the effects of probiotics on the stomach?
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your gut. They can be found in some foods, like yogurt and kefir, or you can take them as a supplement.
Probiotics have been shown to improve digestion and help with stomach problems like constipation and diarrhea. They can also help boost your immune system. For infants, probiotics may help with problems like colic, constipation, and diarrhea. They may also reduce the risk of eczema and allergies in children.
Is Gripe Water A Probiotic?
No, Gripe Water is not a probiotic. However, some formulations do contain probiotic strains, such as the Wellements Organic Probiotic Gripe Water.
Do probiotics all have to be refrigerated?
It is actually true that many probiotics are shelf-stable. Keeping them cool, dark, and dry is a good idea, but refrigeration is not necessary for all probiotics. But before buying, you can check if they need to refrigerate or not.
What's the best way to give baby probiotics?
While there are many ways to give probiotics to a baby, the best way is through breast milk or formula. You can also give them as a powder that you mix with water or juice, or as drops that you put in their mouth.
It's important not to give probiotics in hot bottles or hot food because this can kill the bacteria. And always be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully, so you don't give your baby too many or too few probiotics.
Are probiotics necessary for formula-fed and breastfed babies?
There are some types of bacteria that are naturally present in the digestive system of both formula-fed and breastfed babies. However, there is some evidence that supplementing with probiotics may be beneficial for both groups of babies.
Probiotics are living microorganisms that can help to restore balance to the gut flora, which is the population of bacteria and other organisms that live in the intestines. A healthy gut flora is important for proper digestion, absorption of nutrients, and immune function. Probiotics may be especially beneficial for newborns who are born via C-section or who have exposure to antibiotics early in life.
Do probiotics help babies sleep?
There is some evidence that probiotics may help improve sleep in babies. One study found that infants who received a probiotic drink for six weeks slept an average of 15 minutes longer per night and woke up less often during the night.
It's thought that probiotics may help improve sleep by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Probiotics can also help keep your baby's gut healthy, which is vital for overall health and well-being.
If you're considering giving your baby a probiotic supplement to help with sleep, be sure to speak with your pediatrician first.
Can babies have too much probiotic?
For the most part, probiotics are considered safe for babies. However, it is possible for them to have too much of a good thing. Too much probiotic can cause problems such as vomiting, constipation or diarrhea. So it's important to speak with your pediatrician before giving your baby probiotics if they are under the age of 1 year old.
How do you know if probiotics work?
The most reliable way to know if probiotics work is to measure the levels of bacteria before and after taking the probiotics. If there is an increase in the level of bacteria after taking the probiotics, then it can be said that they worked.
However, there are other ways to determine whether or not probiotics are working.
For example, some people may feel an improvement in their digestive health after taking probiotics. Others may find that their skin is less irritated after taking them. Still, others may notice that they aren't as sick as often when they're taking probiotics regularly.
While these aren't foolproof indicators, they can be helpful in determining whether or not a person is benefitting from probiotic supplementation.
Do probiotics make babies poop more?
Probiotics may cause an increase in the baby's bowel movements. The bacteria in probiotics can help to digest food and absorb nutrients, leading to more frequent bowel movements. However, this is not harmful and is considered a healthy sign that the probiotics are working.
How long does it take probiotics to work in babies?
It can take a few days for probiotics to begin working in babies, but the benefits can be long-lasting.
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that line the gut and help keep everything running smoothly. They're especially important for infants and young children, who need all the help they can get to establish a healthy gut flora.
Most probiotics will start working within a few days of being taken, but it's important to keep taking them regularly to maintain their benefits. Probiotics can have a lasting impact on your child's health, so it's worth making them a part of your daily routine.
Best Infant Probiotic for Your Baby
The use of probiotics is becoming increasingly popular among new parents. Doctors and wellness experts are recommending probiotics for things like gas and colic now that we realize how important they can be to a baby's health. We know that a healthy gut full of good bacteria will promote a strong immune system for our kids and lay the foundation for good health throughout their lives.
We have researched thousands of articles and reviews and have come up with the top eight infant probiotics that we believe will help you out. If you are looking for a probiotic supplement for your child, be sure to check out one of these products! Thanks for reading!
Mommy's Bliss Baby Probiotic Drops
Formulted for Digestive Health & Immunity Support
BioGaia Protectis Probiotics Drops
Great for Infants That Suffer Form Colic
Lovebug Organic Probiotic for Babies
Conveniently Packed in Individual Stick Packs
Culturelle Baby Probiotics Drops
Help to Reduce Symptoms of Stomach Upset in Babies and Infants
Gerber Good Baby Probiotic Drops
Great for Soothing Babies Upset Stomach
Wellements Organic Probiotic Drops
Made With Organic Ingredients / Supports Digestive and Immune Health
Nordic Naturals Probiotic Powder
Great for Picky Eaters Due to Odorless and Tasteless Powder
Evivo Infant Probiotic
Great for Improving Gut Function
We hope you find your next amazing thing from the report above! Each product was independently selected by our editors after reading through many research and reviews to come up with the best selection. RockinReports may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page if you decide to buy something (that's how we stay in business). Thanks for reading and enjoy finding your next amazing thing!
