A healthy start that lasts a lifetime

The infant gut microbiota has been shown to play an important role in shaping the human immune system. The majority of the microbiota in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract develops during the first three years of life and is affected by the child’s exposure to different types of bacteria, for example during birth (whether vaginal or cesarean), and feeding (whether breastfeeding or formula).

Because most immune functions originate in the GI tract, the microbes to which children are exposed play a significant role in the development of their immune systems and future risk of disease. A healthy gut environment promotes the development and maturation of the immune system, and a balanced, diverse microbiota may lead to more efficient uptake of nutrients and less gastrointestinal discomfort.

An unbalanced gut microbiota, however, is considered an underlying cause of childhood immune and GI disorders. Treatment with antibiotics early in life changes the composition of the microbiota and may have a negative long-term effect on health. An underactive immune system may result in frequent infections, while a hyper-reactive system may result in allergies or even autoimmune disease.

Children are more prone to catch various infections compared to adults. For example, young children get 6-8 common cold episodes per year, compared to around 2-3 episodes in adults. Children also more often experience gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea and constipation.

Every parent’s top priority

Healthy children are every parent’s top priority. Balanced, stable gut microbiota lays the foundation for efficient immune response and a balanced, functioning GI system.

Infants, children, and adolescents can all benefit from health-supporting probiotics. Routine intake of probiotics may lead to fewer school absences and a reduction in the number of work days missed by caregivers.