Probiotics for infants are very useful and practical nowadays. Generally, the baby’s immune system is still very weak when he is brought out into this world. The baby could be susceptible to diseases and infection. Probiotics aid in warding off these illnesses.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are good bacteria found in the intestinal tract that would greatly help in fighting off the bad bacteria that attempt to invade the body. Probiotics are very beneficial to infants because babies still haven’t fully developed their immune systems. With the use of probiotics, infections and sickness could be prevented making the baby healthier.
Benefits of Probiotics for Infants
Probiotics are very beneficial to both the parents and the baby. The baby would be healthier and the parents would be happier seeing their baby free from any diseases. Probiotic products fight off bad bacteria from entering the baby’s system. Given this, diseases common to infants such as eczema, diarrhea and allergies are prevented from arising. However, some diseases, like eczema are genetic so it could still happen, but probiotics help lessen the irritation or slow down the occurrence of the skin disorder.
Another benefit of probiotics for infants is the fact that these products help in the build-up of the baby’s immune system, especially if they are administered at an early age. Probiotic supplements also help the infant tolerate dairy products such as milk and yogurt. Also, probiotics function to help the infant’s body to better absorb nutrients inside his system.
Tips on How to Give Probiotics to Infants
Feeding an infant can be hard. Sometimes the babies push away the food or spit it out. One of the most effective ways to feed an infant with a probiotic food or drink is to give it to the baby little by little. You must start giving the food or drink to the baby in small amounts to him in time to get used to the taste. Then work your way up to bigger amounts of probiotic product. It is also important to take your time and not to give a spoonful of food to the baby while he is still chewing, because there is a tendency for him to spit it out.
Furthermore, there are plenty of probiotic products for babies. They come in solid, liquid and even pill form with different flavors. Try a different probiotic product if you feel that your baby just doesn’t like the food or drink he’s being fed.
Probiotics for infants are very helpful to babies. Some people are still doubtful on whether probiotic supplements and food are safe to be given to babies. That is very natural considering that parents are very protective of their offspring. If in doubt, it is best to see the infant’s pediatrician and discuss your concerns about the use of probiotic products. Also, before giving any probiotics for infants, look at the label and make sure that it is for babies because the probiotic supplements or products for adults are much different. Probiotics for infants are essential in strengthening the babies’ immune systems and in preparing them to be healthier and more capable of learning new things.