英国益生菌推荐婴儿吃多久(英国专家建议婴儿坚持吃益生菌的时间要多久？)

How long do UK experts recommend babies should take probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that offer various health benefits when consumed in adequate quantities. Today, many parents across the world are incorporating probiotics into their baby's diet to keep them healthy and reduce the risk of various illnesses. While probiotics can offer a range of benefits to your baby's health, you may wonder how long you should administer these supplements for your little one.

When to start giving probiotics to your baby?

The ideal time to start administering probiotics to your baby is when they are born. Babies born via C-section miss out on the vital lactobacilli present in vaginal fluid, which is essential to boost their immunity levels. Giving your baby probiotics during this period can colonize their gut bacteria and lower the risk of allergies, colic, and other digestive issues.

How long to continue giving your baby probiotics?

According to UK experts, administering probiotics to babies should be a part of their daily diet until they are six months old. The World Health Organisation also suggests that you breastfeed your infant exclusively for six months as breast milk contains a range of beneficial antibodies for your baby’s immune system. After six months, you can introduce solid food while continuing the probiotics' administration until your baby is two years old.

Probiotics for premature babies

Premature babies need probiotics more than full-term babies as their microbiome is less developed and has a higher risk of intestinal inflammation. A study noted that giving premature babies probiotics such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium lactis significantly reduced the risk of fatal infections. Preterm infants can continue taking probiotics until about three months after their due date.

Types of probiotics for babies

There are different types of probiotics available in pharmacies and online stores. Choose strains of probiotics that are beneficial to babies such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Bifidobacterium lactis as they have potent positive effects on your baby's gut health. Avoid strains such as Escherichia coli that may be harmful. However, consult with your pediatrician before selecting the specific type of probiotics for your baby.

Conclusion

Probiotics are valuable supplements that can positively affect your baby's digestive health. As a parent, it is essential to start your baby's probiotics administration early in life to boost their immunity, prevent allergies and colic. Giving probiotics together with breastfeeding provides an optimal combination of beneficial bacteria and antibodies that lead to a healthy baby. Ensure you choose the right strain of probiotics for your baby that is not harmful and consult a pediatrician when in doubt about your baby's gut health. Remember, a healthy gut means a healthy baby!