Probiotics for babies – why they are important for a healthy start

Probiotics for babies play an essential role in the development of gut flora and the immune system. As a neonatal nurse and baby coach I see every day how valuable probiotics can be — both preventively and for existing complaints. In this article I share the benefits, recent scientific insights and my own experience.

What are probiotics?

Probiotics literally means "for life". They are living bacteria and yeasts that have a positive influence on the digestive tract and therefore also on the immune system. In addition to probiotics there are also prebiotics which stimulate the growth and activity of probiotics in the large intestine.

Probiotics are strain-specific — different types work in different ways. The most common groups in babies are Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, Streptococcus and Saccharomyces boulardii. Each group has a unique effect on the body.

My experience as a baby coach

With years of experience caring for babies I guide parents daily with advice on feeding, sleep and wellbeing. I regularly recommend probiotics — for example with colic, digestive problems or to support the immune system. Even during pregnancy probiotics can have a positive effect on your baby's gut flora.

Gut flora in babies — how probiotics help

The gut flora of a newborn baby is crucial for a healthy immune system. Babies born by caesarean section or who receive formula have a different bacterial composition than babies born vaginally who are breastfed. Fortunately formula is nowadays often enriched with probiotics.

Research shows that healthy gut flora in the first months of life has long-term effects on health — from allergies to behaviour and immune response.

The benefits of probiotics for babies

Scientific research shows the following benefits: a stronger immune system, less risk of eczema and allergies, better digestion and less colic, less risk of reflux and thrush, and less crying in babies with gut problems. In premature babies probiotics even protect against NEC (necrotising enterocolitis) — a serious gut inflammation where early intervention can be lifesaving.

Probiotics for reflux and crying babies

Probiotics can ease complaints like reflux and excessive crying. Studies show that babies who receive probiotics cry less and digest better. Lactobacillus Reuteri in particular is well known for this effect — multiple studies confirm that this strain makes crying babies significantly calmer. Crying babies often have fewer lactobacilli in their stool which suggests a direct link between gut health and crying behaviour. Read our blog about colic and reflux for more practical tips.

Probiotics in breast milk

Breast milk naturally contains probiotics. Breastfeeding therefore helps build a healthy gut flora. Did you know that almost 30% of the good bacteria in breastfed babies comes through the milk? Mothers can also take probiotics themselves to strengthen this effect.

Benefits of probiotics for mothers include a stronger immune system, less risk of infections, support of digestion and blood sugar levels and possible prevention of gestational diabetes and postnatal depression.

New insights: the gut-brain axis

Recent studies — including research published in Nature Reviews Neuroscience (2023) — show that gut flora communicates directly with the brain via the so-called gut-brain axis. In babies this means that healthy gut flora not only supports digestion but may also contribute to better emotion regulation, less crying behaviour and a calmer sleep pattern.

Certain probiotics such as Bifidobacterium breve may contribute to the baby's brain development during pregnancy by improving nutrient transport to the brain. This is a relatively new research area but the first results are promising.

Which probiotics do you choose for your baby?

Choose a product with proven strains such as Lactobacillus Reuteri or Bifidobacterium longum. Pay attention to the ingredients and avoid sugar and unnecessary additives. Liquid drops are the most practical for babies because they are easy to administer — at the breast, on a dummy or directly into the mouth. If in doubt always ask your doctor or health visitor for advice, especially with premature babies or babies with underlying conditions.

Frequently asked questions about probiotics for babies

From what age can my baby have probiotics? Probiotics can be given from birth, including to premature babies. Always consult your doctor or health visitor for personal advice.

How long should I give probiotics? That depends on the reason. For colic or reflux results are often noticeable after two to four weeks. As preventive support you can give probiotics during the first months of life.

Are there side effects? Probiotics are generally safe for healthy babies. Sometimes there is a slight increase in stools or gas at first — this is normal and disappears quickly.

Can probiotics reduce colic? Yes — Lactobacillus Reuteri in particular has been scientifically proven effective at reducing crying behaviour in babies with colic.

Do I always need to take probiotics in consultation with a doctor? For healthy full-term babies this is not strictly necessary, but for premature babies or babies with medical conditions always.