It’s that time of year again when everyone seems to be coming down with a cold or the flu. You do everything you can to keep your children’s health, healthy, but sometimes they still get sick.

Even if you are careful about hand-washing and keeping your home clean, there are some things that just can’t be avoided – like exposure to adults or other children.

A daily probiotic supplement can help support your child’s immune system and provide better overall health. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that line the gut and support digestion, absorption of nutrients, and production of vitamins.

What are probiotics and why are they important for child health?

Probiotics are live microorganisms that are found in some foods and supplements. They are often called “good” or “friendly” bacteria because they can help to maintain a healthy balance of necessary bacteria in the gut where much of our immunity resides.

This is important for children’s health because a child’s gut health is not only important for their immunity but can also impact their overall health and well-being. Probiotics can help promote a healthy digestive system, strengthen their immune system, and even improve mood and cognitive function.

Probiotics may also help reduce the risk of some childhood illnesses, like eczema and allergies. For these reasons, it is important for parents to ensure that their children’s health in enhanced by getting enough probiotics through diet or supplements.

How do probiotics help support immunity in children?

The human gastrointestinal tract is home to a complex and diverse ecosystem of microorganisms, many of which are essential for good health. These so-called “friendly” bacteria, or probiotics, play an important role in child development, helping to support the child’s immune system and protect against infections.

Children are born with their intestinal tracts sterile. They acquire probiotics from the mother during passage through the birth canal and more while being breastfed. Children born via Caesarean section and or are bottle fed, are at high risk of developing gastro intestinal problems and reduced immunity in general as a result.

Probiotics are found naturally in some foods, but they can also be taken as supplements. Some studies have shown that probiotics may be particularly beneficial for children, helping to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal problems and other infections.

For example, one study found that children who took probiotics were less likely to experience diarrhea after taking antibiotics. Probiotics may also help to reduce the duration of respiratory infections and improve symptoms of allergies and eczema. As more research is conducted, it is becoming increasingly clear that probiotics offer a range of benefits for children’s health.

Can probiotics be helpful during times of sickness?

Probiotics are live bacteria that are similar to the ones found naturally in the gut. They are often taken as a supplement to improve gut health. Probiotics can be helpful during times of sickness, especially for children.

Studies have shown that probiotics can help reduce the severity and duration of certain types of infections, such as rotavirus and diarrhea. They can also help to prevent the development of some allergies and eczema.

However, more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits. Probiotics are generally safe, but they can cause side effects in some people. Be sure to talk to a doctor before giving probiotics to a child.

In conclusion

The Benefits of Probiotics for Children’s Health

The child’s gut microbiome is constantly changing and exposure to new probiotic strains can help to promote a healthy balance. Probiotics can help to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal infections, allergies, and eczema.

They may also help to improve cognitive function and emotional wellbeing. While more research is needed, probiotics offer a promising approach to supporting child health.

SONA Probiotics for Children

Sona have a range of probiotics for Children from Birth through infancy and beyond.

SONA BabyBiotic is suitable from birth to 3 years, providing 5 billion Bifidobacterium (BB-12®) in each daily dose. BB-12® has many documented benefits, including lowering the frequency of colic. BB-12® has been tested in more than 300 clinical trials with proven safety and efficacy.

SONA Pro10Biotic Kiddie is a citrus flavoured chewable tablet containing one of the best documented Lactobacillus strains, L.casei 431®. These friendly bacteria colonise the gut and help maintain a favourable intestinal flora. A correct balance of intestinal flora is important for the proper digestion and utilisation of nutrients and a healthy immune system. Suitable for children ages 3+


Did you know? 

Sona have hidden a Golden Ticket inside a product from the Sona Children’s range.

Whoever finds the golden ticket will win a €1,000 cash prize.
PLUS when the golden ticket is found, Sona will donate €30,000 to Children’s Health Foundation.

So it’s time to get searching!
Ask your local pharmacy about the Sona Golden Ticket.

For more information, visit www.childrenshealth.ie/sona-golden-ticket/