Probiotics for Kids
Probiotics are basically “good” bacteria that, when taken as a supplement or in foods like yogurt, may help keep kids guts and digestive tracts healthy and working well. (And also help them recover from bouts with upset tummies, particularly after a course of antibiotics.) Over the last few years, the supplement market has been flooded by options, many of which make all sorts of bold health claims, so here’s what you need to know about how probiotics work and whether your child may benefit from one. TIP: Always check in with your child’s pediatrician when considering a supplement or vitamin for your kids.
Probiotics for Toddlers
Constipation, diarrhea, upset tummy. If you’ve got a toddler who is prone to stomach issues (raising hand) you know how awful it can be. That’s one of the reasons probiotics‚ or supplements that include healthy bacteria—have gotten so popular. Our kids (and our own!) guts are made up of a microbiome of different bacteria that may play a role in both digestive and overall health. Sign up for our email updates to get tips and ideas sent to your inbox. Since our guts have both good and bacteria in them, sometimes the balance can get thrown off by things like illness, an infection, or even antibiotics.
What You Need to Know
Most kids don’t need a probiotic supplement, and we can offer foods that naturally include probiotics like yogurt, kefir, drinkable yogurt, and other cultured foods like sauerkraut and kimchi. (Look for “live cultures” on the label.) But if your child seems prone to upset tummies, or other issues with their digestive system, it might be worth talking to your pediatrician about the option of a probiotic. The key is to use a strain that has been proven to be effective for the issue, according to the journal of Pediatric Gastroenterolgy, Hepatolgy, and Nutrition. Although not everyone agrees how much good probiotics do for the immune system or in terms of health benefits, they are generally considered safe.
Favorite Product Picks
And remember to keep these out of reach—kids can’t tell the difference between gummy vitamins or probiotics and gummy candy or fruit snacks, so we want to make sure they’re safely stored. Check in with your pediatrician before starting a probiotic.
Culturelle Kids Purely Probiotics Packet
If chewables and gummies won’t work for your kids, these powdered packets are a great alternative. The main probiotic strains in Culturelle’s probiotics is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG). Each pouch contains one dose of probiotic powders, and can be mixed into cold smoothies or applesauce or whatever your kiddo likes. (This option is also good for kids starting at age 1.) Buy Culturelle Kids Purely Probiotics Packets
Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotics
From one of the leading probiotic companies, this option uses 6 strains of healthy bacteria that were specifically chosen to aid with digestion and tummy troubles. The bear-shaped, chewable tablets are recommended for ages 2 and up. Buy Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotics
NOW Supplements Berry Dophilus Kids Chewables
The kid’s version of this brand’s popular BerryDophilus product comes packed with 10 different strains of bacteria. These strains are meant to help with tummy troubles. Kids ages 1 and up can take this chewable tablet–although you’ll want to break it up into food depending on age since it could be harder for younger kids to chew. Buy NOW Supplements BerryDophilus Kids Chewables
Garden of Life Probiotics Organic Kids
If you prefer an organic probiotic, this one might be for you. These chewable tablets have the live bacteria and add in some vitamin C and D. (If you give a multivitamin, check the dosages to make sure you aren’t giving more than is recommended.) Plus, unlike some other probiotics, these don’t need to be refrigerated which is convenient. Buy the Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Probiotics Organic Kids+
Jarrow Formulas Yum-Yum Dophilus
These probiotics have 1 billion organisms from 4 different strains. Another chewable option–yes, a lot of probiotics for kids come in this form–these ones have a raspberry flavor. They also come shipped in sustainable packaging with reusable ice packs. Buy Jarrow Formulas Yum-Yum Dophilus
Olly Kids Probiotic and Prebiotic
These gummies have 500 million active bacteria, plus a dose of prebiotics and peppermint (which is known to soothe stomachs, too). They’re recommended for ages 2 and up. Buy the Olly Kids Probiotic and Prebiotic To learn more about all types of multivitamins and supplements, check out this guide to toddler vitamins.
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This post was first published February 2021.
