Thursday, September 3, 2009

Probiotics

With flu season just around the corner, none of us are looking forward to our kids catching some kind of bug/illness from the park, store, daycare, church, etc. We can only do so much to wash and wipe their hands when they are out and about... but what we can do is to help boost their immune system to fight the bacteria.

Most of us know that sleep and diet are major factors in strengthening our immune system... but probiotics is another way to ensure good health. Probiotics are ”good” bacteria that are ingested in some fermented foods (like yogurt) or via pill, powder or liquid supplement. These health-promoting, live bacteria take up residence in the stomach to keep bad bacteria in check.

According to Dr. Sears, probiotics:
-Boost intestinal immunity
-Promote a healthy gut environment
-Reduce intestinal allergies
-Produce healthful nutrients

Breastfeeding automatically promotes the development of healthy bacteria. But you are giving your baby formula, or would like to give probiotics to you baby in addition to the breastmilk, there are brands out there that are for children ages 0+ (such as this one below).