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Gut health deep dive

The ultimate guide to probiotics for children

Written by:

Alba Health team

Last updated:

Feb 28, 2025

In this article

What are probiotics?

What do probiotics do for your child’s health?

How probiotics can help children

Is there science behind probiotics?

What is the best probiotic for my child?

As parents, we’re always looking for ways to improve our children’s health. One tool in supporting your child's overall wellbeing is probiotics. But what exactly are probiotics, and how can they help your child’s health? In this article, we break down the essential information you need to know about probiotics for children, and how they can support your little one’s gut health.

Find out exactly which good bacteria your child’s gut may need with Alba’s science-backed gut health test →

What are probiotics?

Probiotics are live microorganisms – often referred to as "good bacteria" – that provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. These bacteria are naturally present in the gut and can also be found in certain foods and supplements [1].

Probiotics can be taken in different forms, such as:

Capsules
Powder
Drops (ideal for younger children)
Foods like kefir or yogurt

There are also related terms to know:

Prebiotics: These are fibers that serve as food for probiotics [2]
Postbiotics: What is left behind after digesting pre- and probiotics, which can include nutrients or other supportive components [3] that are produced when probiotics work in the gut.
Synbiotics: A combination of prebiotics and probiotics, working together for enhanced benefits [4]

What do probiotics do for your child’s health?

Our gut is home to trillions of bacteria that help our bodies perform important functions. These bacteria help:

Break down dietary foods and absorb nutrients to assist digestion[5].
Produce beneficial compounds that support smooth food transit through the gut [6][7].
Communicate with the immune system to regulate inflammation and boost immunity [8][9].

Normally, when we have a resilient, balanced gut microbiome, our body doesn’t need external support from probiotics. However, there are times when our gut could use a helping hand, and this is where probiotics come in. Probiotics typically don’t stay in the gut permanently. Instead, they temporarily enter, address the issue, and then leave once the problem is resolved [10].

How probiotics can help children

Probiotics have been clinically proven to support a variety of health concerns in children, including:

Diarrhea (due to infections or antibiotics) [11]
Eczema (skin inflammation) [12][13][14]
Constipation [15]
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) [16]
Regurgitation [17] [18]
Colic (fussiness or crying in infants)[19][20]
Functional abdominal pain [21][22]
And more…

Are probiotics safe for children of all ages?

Probiotics are generally safe for children, even newborns. For babies, probiotics in the form of drops can be a great option. However, it’s important to choose probiotics that are specifically approved for children and backed by clinical evidence.

When choosing a probiotic for your child, consider these factors:

Age-appropriate form: Probiotics come in many different forms – powder, drops, chewable tablets, etc. Choose one that suits your child’s age and ability to consume it.
Clinically tested for children: Make sure the probiotic is proven safe and effective for kids, with research supporting its use.

Try Alba’s child gut health test – Understand your child’s unique gut pattern and get clear, evidence-led steps to support them →

Is there science behind probiotics?

Not all probiotics are created equal. While some are backed by solid scientific research, others are not. When we say a product is "backed by science," it means there are studies that demonstrate its effectiveness for specific health benefits. At Alba Health, we only recommend probiotic products supported by credible research, including studies on their ability to address issues like eczema, constipation, and antibiotic-associated diarrhoea.

Probiotics can be a valuable tool in managing these conditions, but they are not a catch - all solution. It’s important to use probiotics as a targeted approach to support your child's health when needed.

What is the best probiotic for my child?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Choosing the right probiotic depends on your child's unique health needs.

Here’s what to consider:

Strain matters: Different probiotic strains have different benefits. Some strains support digestive health, while others may help with immune function or skin issues. Research the strains in a probiotic to make sure they match your child’s needs.
Consider your child’s current gut health: We all have a unique microbiome. For some, taking more probiotics may cause bloating or discomfort. Testing can help determine if additional probiotics are necessary.
Diet plays a role: A balanced diet rich in fiber (from fruits, vegetables, and grains) helps probiotics thrive [23]. Make sure your child’s diet supports their gut health to maximize the benefits of probiotics.

Alba Health: Your partner in gut health

At Alba Health, we’re committed to providing parents with the best advice to support their children’s gut health. We believe in personalized care, meaning the right probiotic for your child is the one that fits their specific health needs – not just any random supplement.

We don’t sell our own probiotics or earn commissions from recommending products. Our focus is on offering unbiased, science-backed guidance so you can make the best decision for your child’s health.

Why trust Alba Health?

Here’s why you can trust us:

Our team has over 1,600 publications in gut health and child health research.
In 2025, we won the Probiotic Pioneer Award at the world’s largest probiotics and microbiome event.
Alba Health’s co-founder Professor Willem de Vos discovered Akkermansia muciniphila, a promising probiotic linked to heart and metabolic health, and has over 40 years of microbiome research experience.
Our mission is to ensure your child’s gut health is supported with the best possible information, so you can make informed choices about probiotics and nutrition.

References

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