Both adults and children can suffer from eczema, or atopic dermatitis, but it is a condition that primarily affects infants and small children. Traditional treatments include topical ointments and creams or medications. Probiotics are another treatment option that may be beneficial for children, particularly young children who do not tolerate topical treatments well. Learning more about eczema and the potential that probiotics offer may help guide the decision you make regarding treatment for your little one.
Eczema Symptoms
If your child has eczema, the condition is likely a combination of an immune system disorder and dry and irritated skin. If your child suffers from the condition, he may exhibit symptoms including red or brownish gray patches of skin, itching, small bumps that ooze fluid when scratched, thick and scaly skin and raw skin that becomes sensitive from scratching. The most common places for these symptoms to appear on the hands, feet, back of the knee, bend in the elbow, wrists, face and upper body.
How Probiotics Help Eczema
Probiotics are often referred to as friendly bacteria and they may help keep your child's gut and immune system working properly. The "American Family Physician" journal notes that probiotics most likely help treat eczema because they have an effect on the development of your child's immune system, though the research and evidence is limited. The journal suggests that a few studies have shown that children suffering from eczema have improved symptoms after taking probiotics, possibly because this good bacteria helps the immune system fight the underlying cause of the condition.
Dosage for Children
"American Family Physician" journal notes that several studies have shown that probiotics have little effect on eczema, possibly because the dosage was too small or the particular strain was different than those that have potential to treat the condition. The journal notes that daily dosages of probiotics for children range from 5 to 10 million colony-forming units. Your child will likely get the most benefit from taking high dosages of probiotics. Speak with a pediatrician to determine the upper limit for your little one based on his age and the severity of his eczema.
Where to Find Probiotics
A small selection of foods contain probiotics and you can incorporate them into your child's diet to help him consume enough friendly bacteria to have a potential affect on his eczema. Yogurt is the most child-friendly food that contains probiotics. Check the label to determine whether your child's favorite flavor contains live and active cultures, which signifies the presence of probiotics. Miso, kefir and sauerkraut are less child-friendly options, but each supplies probiotics as well. A supplement may be the most beneficial way to increase your child's intake of probiotics and several brands market versions made for children.
