Can a Probiotic Formula Solve Your Baby’s Colic?
Is a probiotic formula something you should consider in alleviating baby colic? Possibly. Research shows that milk-based formula with supplemental probiotics did wonders for lowering colic outbursts in babies. But more about that later. First, you may be wondering what the heck probiotic means.
What are probiotics?
Your body contains tons of bacteria and other microorganisms. As we know, some bacteria are bad and cause illness and infection. However, some bacteria are good and necessary in order for our bodies to function properly.
A probiotic is a supplement or foods that are like those good bacteria that occur naturally in our body. Some examples of food containing probiotics are:
-yogurt
-some cheese
-some pickles
-fermented milk
-sauerkraut
Experts are interested in the evidence that probiotics taken as supplements or in food seem to treat illnesses like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), intestinal infections, infant eczema, infectious diarrhea, and other disorders, as well as improve a person’s overall health. Probiotics seem to particularly aid in digestive disorders.
You have probably heard commercials for Dannon’s Activia and how it makes you more “regular”. Activia is a lowfat yogurt that contains a probiotic. There are people that swear by this stuff.
What does probiotics have to do with baby colic?
Experts aren’t sure what causes colic. However, some believe the culprit to be an immature digestive system that doesn’t function correctly. The baby may have more difficulty digesting complex enzymes. In turn, their digestive tract can become irritated, which can cause pain and fussiness. Or, as with adults who are somewhat lactose intolerant, milk protein found in the formulas can make the baby become gassy and bloated which also can cause intense pain. And this may be what causes the incredible bouts of crying and screaming.
Probiotics, since they are known to aid in problems with the digestive system, can help add good bacteria into your baby’s system and soothe that immature digestive tract. In fact, a 2004 John Hopkins study found that a probiotic formula lowered the frequency of colic in infants who were fed a milk-based formula containing probiotic bacteria.
So, it’s was no surprise when food-giant Nestle became the first to come out with their Good Start Natural Cultures formula which contains Bifidus BL™—a probiotic similar to that found in breast milk. (Keep in mind, if you are breastfeeding, your breast milk is a natural source of probiotics and your baby shouldn’t need a supplemental probiotic). As the saying goes, breast is best. But if you do need to feed your baby a formula, you might want to check out Good Start Natural Cultures.
Are there any probiotics side effects?
Side effects from probiotics are few, and if they do occur, are mostly mild. Some people may experience digestive issues such as gas and bloating. However, in more rare instances, people with underlying health conditions have contracted illnesses as a result of the probiotics stimulating their immune system in a negative way. So be sure to consult your doctor if you are considering switching your baby to a probiotic formula just to be on the safe side.
