You can't see or feel them, but inside your body are trillions of living bacteria. These microorganisms, called probiotics, are normal, natural and even integral to good health. Probiotics supplements, which contain the healthy, desirable bacteria called Lactobacillus acidophilus, are increasingly popular among adults wanting to regulate their digestive systems and strengthen their immune systems. Children can take acidophilus supplements as well, as long as you keep some precautions in mind.
What Are Probiotics?
The beneficial microorganisms called probiotics help fight off harmful bacteria that can make you sick. They do this by producing substances that are anti-microbial. The Harvard Medical School states that in a healthy intestinal system, these bacteria are fundamental to the prevention of illness and the maintenance of proper digestion. The term "probiotic" is applied to microorganisms such as L. acidophilus that are used medicinally.
Probiotics Uses
Probiotics supplementation is sometimes recommended to patients suffering from digestive problems. According to "Pediatric Views," a publication of Children's Hospital Boston, probiotics effectively treat stomach bugs such as rotavirus and diarrhea, and are also often used for irritable bowel syndrome and food allergies. You can take probiotics in two ways: by eating fermented foods such as yogurt, buttermilk, sauerkraut, kefir and tempeh, which are naturally rich sources of healthy microorganisms, or by taking L. acidophilus supplements in capsule, powder or liquid form.
Children and Supplement Dosage
If recommended to do so by a medical professional, children can supplement their internal healthy bacteria via the consumption of yogurt or other probiotic foods, which are generally considered safe. Consult a physician to determine the amount of fermented foods appropriate for a child, as too much probiotic food can cause stomach upset. Children may also be treated with Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements in pediatric formulations. For example, the University of Maryland Medical Center states that liquid forms of L. acidophilus can be applied topically to treat diaper rash or yeast infections in babies, and that portions of supplement capsules can be given to children on antibiotics therapy to replace lost beneficial bacteria. Because the appropriate dose of probiotics depends on the condition being treated, check with your pediatrician or family physician regarding the correct supplement dosage for your child.
Precautions
Lactobacillus acidophilus supplements are safe for children and babies older than 1 month, notes "Pediatric Views." It's important, however, to consult a pediatrician before giving a child any supplement due to the potential risk for negative side effects or drug interactions. Probiotics supplements may not be appropriate for every child.
References
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide; Health Benefits of Probiotics; September 2005
- Children's Hospital Boston Pediatric Views; Understanding Pros and Cons of Probiotics; Athos Bousvaros, M.D.; February 2007
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Lactobacillus Acidophilus; Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D.; June 2009
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