Probiotics Benefits: Why Boost Your Child's Gut Health?

A probiotic is a viable microbial dietary supplement that beneficially affects the host through its effects in the intestinal tract. Probiotics are widely used to prepare fermented dairy products such as yogurt or freeze-dried cultures. In the future, they may also be found in fermented vegetables and meats (Roberfroid, 2000).

Several health-related effects associated with the intake of probiotics, including alleviation of lactose intolerance and immune enhancement, have been reported in human studies. Some evidence suggests a role for probiotics in reducing the risk of rotavirus-induced diarrhea and colon cancer.[⁵]

According to the German definition, probiotics are defined as viable microorganisms, sufficient amounts of which reach the intestine in an active state and thus exert positive health effects (de Vrese & Schrezenmeir, 2008).

Numerous probiotic microorganisms (e.g., Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, L. reuteri, bifidobacteria, and certain strains of L. casei or the L. acidophilus-group) are used in probiotic food, particularly fermented milk products. These microorganisms have been studied for their potential medicinal use and their ability to modulate the immune system, influence gut microbiota, and help prevent infections and allergies.[¹]

Prebiotics, on the other hand, are non-digestible fibers that serve as food for probiotics. Think of them as fertilizers for beneficial bacteria, ensuring they flourish. Prebiotics are nondigestible food ingredients that benefit the host by selectively stimulating the growth or activity of one or a limited number of bacteria in the colon (Roberfroid, 2000). Work with prebiotics has been limited, and only studies involving the inulin-type fructans have generated sufficient data for thorough evaluation regarding their possible use as functional food ingredients[⁵].

Among the claims are constipation relief, suppression of diarrhea, and reduction of the risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases associated with dyslipidemia and insulin resistance, obesity, and possibly type 2 diabetes.

The combination of probiotics and prebiotics in a synbiotic has not been studied extensively. However, this combination might improve the survival of the bacteria crossing the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract, thereby enhancing their effects in the large bowel. Their effects might also be additive or even synergistic.[⁵]

A prebiotic is "a selectively fermented ingredient that allows specific changes, both in the composition and/or activity in the gastrointestinal microflora that confers benefits upon host well-being and health"[²]

Together, prebiotics and probiotics form a powerful team that keeps your child’s digestive system balanced and healthy, offering long-term benefits.