Best Probiotic for Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Choosing the Right One

Choosing the right probiotic for kids is crucial for their digestive health and immune function. To do so, you must understand the specific strains that are beneficial, ensure the product is high-quality, and consider dietary factors that support a healthy gut biome.
You can give your child’s gut health a boost by combining supplements and foods. You have ever wondered if your child could benefit from a probiotic?

I. What are Probiotics?

Probiotics are living microorganisms that provide many health benefits when consumed regularly. Probiotics help balance out your gut microbiome for proper digestion, absorption, immunity, and digestion, which are critical components of overall well-being. They’re often recommended after antibiotic treatments in order to restore essential gut bacteria balances.
Kids can obtain probiotics through foods like yogurt and kefir, as well as supplements.

II. Why Should Kids Take Probiotics?

1. Improving Digestive Health

Probiotics help kids digest food and keep the gut bacteria in balance, which is important for digestion and absorption of nutrients. Some parents say probiotics help their children with constipation. Probiotics can also help with digestive issues caused by antibiotics.

2. Boosting Immune Health

Probiotics are also believed to support the immune system. The gut microbiome plays a significant role in the body’s immune response, and maintaining a healthy balance of gut bacteria can help bolster the immune system. Some parents have found that probiotics helped their children recover from illnesses more quickly and reduced the frequency of infections.

3. Specific Conditions

Probiotics can help children with certain health problems. Some parents say that probiotics help with gut issues in children with autism. Probiotics can also help with IBS and other digestive problems.

III. Choosing the Best Probiotic for Your Child

1. Formulated for Children

Choose a probiotic for your child that is specially formulated for their needs. Children’s probiotics often contain strains of beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These can help support their gut health and overall well-being.

2. Probiotic Strains and Their Specific Benefits

• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG):
  • This strain has been widely studied and is used in various probiotic supplements for children. It has been shown to help with digestive issues such as diarrhea and constipation.
• Bifidobacterium lactis:
  • Often found in infant formulas and supplements, this strain helps support a healthy gut microbiome and can aid in reducing colic and improving stool consistency.
• Saccharomyces boulardii:
  • A yeast-based probiotic that can help prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea and treat acute gastroenteritis. It’s generally safe for older children but should be used under medical supervision for younger ones.

3. Probiotic Forms: Which is Best for Your Child?

Probiotics for children come in different forms, including chewables, powders, and gummies. Choose a form your child will like. Some parents have found gummy probiotics taste good and are easy for kids to take.

4. Dosage and Administration

• Probiotics for infants under 6 months: be careful. Some studies and health organizations, such as the FDA, have raised concerns about the safety of probiotics in very young infants, particularly those who are preterm or immunocompromised. Do not give probiotics to infants under 6 months without a doctor’s advice.

• Probiotics for Older Infants and Toddlers: Probiotics can sometimes help older infants and toddlers, especially with constipation or after antibiotics. Pediatricians often recommend starting with small doses and increasing gradually if needed. Follow the instructions on the product label or as directed by your pediatrician.

• Probiotics for Preschoolers: Probiotics can help preschoolers (around 3 years old) with digestive issues or illnesses. The dose for this age group is a few drops or a small amount of powder mixed into food or drink. Ask your child’s doctor if the probiotic is right for your child and how much to give.

What’s your biggest challenge when it comes to giving your child supplements?

IV. Top 5 Probiotics for Kids

Disclaimer: This information is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice. Please seek the advice of a certified pediatrician before making decisions about your child’s health or treatment.

1. Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic is a well-regarded supplement designed to support digestive and immune health in children. It contains the probiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG, is available in powder form, and is recommended for children aged 1 year and older. Link to product.

1.1 Pros

• Effective Strain: The primary probiotic strain in Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic is Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), which is one of the most researched probiotic strains and has been shown to support digestive and immune health.
• Ease of Use: The product comes in a convenient powder form that can be easily mixed into food or drinks, making it simple to administer to children.
• Positive Feedback: Many parents have reported positive outcomes with this probiotic, noting improvements in their children’s digestive issues and overall well-being.
• No Artificial Ingredients: The product does not contain artificial colors, preservatives, dairy, lactose, milk, yeast, or soy, making it suitable for children with various dietary restrictions.

1.2 Cons

• Mixed Results: While many users report benefits, some parents have noted that probiotics, including Culturelle, did not significantly help their child’s symptoms or even caused discomfort.
• Cost: As with many specialized supplements, the cost can be a concern for some families, especially if used daily over a long period.
• Potential Side Effects: Some children may experience side effects such as increased gas or bloating when starting probiotics.

1.3 Form

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic is available in powder form. This format is particularly advantageous for young children who may have difficulty swallowing pills. The powder can be mixed into cold or room temperature food and beverages, making it easy to incorporate into a child’s diet.

1.4 Recommended Age Range

Culturelle Kids Daily Probiotic is recommended for children aged 1 year and older.

2. SmartyPants Kids Probiotic Gummies

SmartyPants Kids Prebiotic and Probiotic Immunity Formula gummies are a vegan, non-GMO, and Clean Label Project Purity Award-winning supplement designed for children ages 3 and up. They are strawberry-crème flavored and contain a prebiotic and two strains of probiotics to support digestive health and strengthen the immune system. You can find more information about SmartyPants Kids Prebiotic and purchase them.

2.1 Pros

• Taste: Many parents report that their kids enjoy the taste of these gummies, which makes it easier to ensure they take them regularly.
• Ingredients: These gummies are made with high-quality ingredients, including probiotics that are beneficial for gut health.
• No Refrigeration Needed: Unlike some other probiotic supplements, SmartyPants Kids Probiotic Gummies do not require refrigeration, making them convenient for travel and daily use.
• Additional Nutrients: They also contain prebiotics, which help feed the good bacteria in the gut.

2.2 Cons

• Sugar Content: Some parents are concerned about the sugar content in these gummies, although it is relatively low compared to other gummy vitamins.
• Cost: These gummies can be more expensive than other children’s probiotic supplements on the market.
• Potential Allergens: They contain ingredients like gelatin, which may not be suitable for all children, especially those with dietary restrictions or allergies.

2.3 Form

These probiotics come in the form of chewable gummies, which are often preferred by children over pills or powders due to their taste and ease of consumption.

2.4 Recommended Age Range

SmartyPants Kids Probiotic Gummies are recommended for children aged 3 years and older.

3. Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotic

Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotic is a chewable probiotic supplement designed for children. It contains multiple strains of beneficial bacteria, supports digestive and immune health. For more information or to purchase Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotic, you can visit this link.

3.1 Pros

• Multiple Strains: Contains six different probiotic strains to support a diverse gut microbiome.
• Chewable Tablets: Easy for kids to consume without the need for water.
• Sugar-Free: Sweetened with xylitol, making it a healthier option compared to sugary alternatives.
• Supports Digestive Health: Helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can aid in digestion and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal issues.
• Immune Support: Probiotics are known to support the immune system by promoting healthy gut flora.

3.2 Cons

• Taste: Some children may not like the taste of the chewable tablets.
• Price: Can be more expensive compared to other children’s probiotics on the market.
• Allergen Concerns: Contains traces of milk and soy, which may be an issue for children with allergies.

3.3 Form

The probiotic comes in the form of chewable tablets, which are convenient for children who may have difficulty swallowing capsules or powders.

3.4 Recommended Age Range

Renew Life Ultimate Flora Kids Probiotic is recommended for children aged 2 years and older.

4. Garden of Life Kids Probiotics

Garden of Life Kids Probiotics are well-regarded for their quality and effectiveness. They contain a variety of beneficial strains, come in chewable form, and are suitable for children aged 4 and up. However, some parents have noted that they can be a bit pricey. You can find more information about Garden of Life Kids Probiotics and purchase them here.

4.1 Pros:

• Variety of Strains: Contains multiple probiotic strains which can help support digestive and immune health.
• Chewable Form: Easy for kids to consume without the need for water.
• Non-GMO and Organic: Made from organic ingredients and free from genetically modified organisms.
• No Refrigeration Needed: Convenient for storage and travel.
• Free from Common Allergens: Does not contain dairy, gluten, or soy, making it suitable for children with allergies.

4.2 Cons:

• Price: Some parents find the product to be on the expensive side.
• Taste: While many kids enjoy the taste, some may not like it.
• Effectiveness: As with all probiotics, effectiveness can vary from person to person.

4.3 Form

The probiotics come in a chewable tablet form, which is flavored to appeal to children. This makes it easy for kids to take their daily dose without the need for water or swallowing pills.

4.4 Recommended Age Range

Garden of Life Kids Probiotics are recommended for children aged 4 and up.

5. Lil Critters Kids Probiotics

Lil Critters Kids Probiotics are a popular choice for children’s digestive health, offering a tasty gummy form that is easy for kids to consume. They contain beneficial probiotic strains and are suitable for children aged 2 and up. You can find more information and purchase Lil Critters Kids Probiotics here.

5.1 Pros

• Kid-Friendly Form: The probiotics come in a gummy form, which makes them more appealing and easier for children to take compared to pills or powders.
• Taste: Many parents report that their children enjoy the taste, making it less of a struggle to ensure they take their daily dose.
• Digestive Health: Contains beneficial probiotic strains that support digestive health and may help with issues like constipation and diarrhea.
• No Artificial Flavors or Sweeteners: Free from synthetic colors, artificial flavors, and sweeteners, which is a plus for health-conscious parents.

5.2 Cons

• Sugar Content: As gummies, they do contain sugar, which might be a concern for some parents looking to minimize their child’s sugar intake.
• Limited Strain Variety: Compared to some other probiotic supplements, Lil Critters Kids Probiotics have a limited number of probiotic strains.
• Potential Allergens: Parents should check the ingredient list for potential allergens if their child has food sensitivities.

5.3 Form

The probiotics are available in gummy form, which is often preferred by children over capsules or powders. This form factor makes it convenient for daily consumption and ensures better compliance from kids.

5.4 Recommended Age Range

Lil Critters Kids Probiotics are recommended for children aged 2 years and older.

V. Kind Kate’s Tips for Getting Kids to Take Probiotics

1. Add Probiotics to Food

Kids will take probiotics if they like the food. Mix probiotic powder into yogurt, smoothies, or applesauce. This makes the probiotics more tasty and less noticeable for picky eaters. Some parents have found Culturelle probiotics mixed with fiber help with digestive issues.

2. Flavored or Chewable Supplements

Flavored or chewable probiotic supplements are also a good option. Many brands have kid-friendly flavors. Choose a product your child likes and will take.

3. Make it a Routine

A routine helps your child take probiotics regularly. For example, give probiotics at the same time each day. One parent said their child liked taking vitamins together, which made it easier to add probiotics to their routine.

VI. When to Talk to Your Pediatrician

Before embarking on any supplement regimen for your child, it is a smart move to seek advice from his or her pediatrician. A pediatrician can tailor personalized recommendations according to individual health requirements while assuring you of its safety and efficacy.

If your child is frequently constipated or has other digestive problems, it might be worth discussing the use of probiotics with your pediatrician.

VII. Dietary Sources vs. Supplements

While probiotic supplements are commonly used, many parents and experts suggest incorporating natural sources of probiotics into a child’s diet. Foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha are rich in probiotics and can be more beneficial than supplements because they provide a variety of bacterial strains. Prebiotic foods, which feed the good bacteria in the gut, are also recommended to enhance the effectiveness of probiotics.

1. Probiotic-Rich Foods for Kids

• Yogurt and Kefir
  • Yogurt is a popular source of probiotics. Many children can eat it and like it. Greek yogurt is rich in probiotics and can be mixed with fruit or granola.
  • Kefir is another good option. It has more good bacteria than yogurt. You can eat it plain or flavored, but watch out for added sugars.

• Smoothies
  • Smoothies are a great way to get probiotics into your child’s diet. Blend yogurt or kefir with fruit for a tasty, healthy drink. Add oats, coconut milk, or vegetables for more nutrients. This is good for kids who don’t like yogurt or kefir.

• Fermented Vegetables
  • Add a little sauerkraut or kimchi to your child’s meals. You can introduce these foods gradually. Mix a tablespoon of sauerkraut into a salad or serve it as a side dish. Beet kvass is another option for probiotics in liquid form.

• Miso and Other Fermented Soy Products
  • Miso is a fermented soybean paste used in soups. It’s an easy way to add probiotics to your child’s diet. Miso soup is mild and can be paired with vegetables or tofu. Other soy products like tempeh and natto also contain probiotics and can be added to food.

2. Prebiotics: Feeding the Good Bacteria

Prebiotics are carbohydrates that feed good bacteria in the gut. They are found in fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Eating prebiotics helps the good bacteria in your gut grow. This keeps your gut healthy.
Instead of just taking supplements, eat more fiber-rich foods. Garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, and whole grains are great sources of prebiotics. Eating a variety of these foods gives your gut a variety of good bacteria.

VIII. FAQs about Probiotics for Kids