Gut health is fundamental to an infant’s overall development, influencing digestion, immunity, and even neurological function.
As healthcare professionals, pharmacists are often the first point of contact for parents seeking solutions for these common concerns. Evidencebased probiotic supplementation, such as BioGaia Protectis Baby Drops, provides a clinically validated, non-pharmacological approach to supporting infant gut health. These drops contain Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, a probiotic strain with extensive research demonstrating its efficacy in reducing colic symptoms, promoting digestive regularity, and supporting overall gut function. The most clinically researched probiotic strain in the World for Infant Colic. Multiple award winning.
The Development of the Infant Gut Microbiome
The neonatal gut microbiome is established at birth and undergoes rapid maturation during the first few months of life. Several factors influence this development:
• Antibiotic exposure: Both maternal and infant antibiotic use can disrupt gut microbiota, reducing beneficial bacterial populations and increasing the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms
• Feeding patterns: Breastfeeding supports microbiome colonization with beneficial bacteria and prebiotics, whereas formula feeding may lead to differences in microbial composition, so supplementation can be beneficial.
• Mode of delivery: Vaginal delivery exposes infants to maternal vaginal and gut microbiota. Studies prove that the microbiota become similar regardless of delivery method as the gut matures over time.
A well-balanced microbiome is essential for proper digestion, immune function, and gut motility. However, imbalances or dysbiosis may contribute to conditions such as infant colic, constipation, and reflux.
Common Infant Gastrointestinal Issues and Their Impact
1. Infantile Colic
• Defined as excessive crying (>3 hours per day, >3 days per week for at least 3 weeks), colic affects up to 20% of infants.
• Though its aetiology is multifactorial, gut microbiome dysbiosis, increased gas production, and gut immaturity are key contributors.
• Studies indicate that infants with colic have a higher abundance of pro-inflammatory gut bacteria and lower levels of beneficial Lactobacillus species.
2. Constipation
• A common concern, particularly during dietary transitions (e.g., from breast milk to formula or the introduction of solid foods).
• Characterised by infrequent, hard stools and straining, infant constipation is often associated with altered gut motility and microbial imbalances.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER)
• Physiological reflux is common in infants due to an immature lower oesophageal sphincter. However, excessive or persistent reflux can cause discomfort, poor weight gain, and feeding difficulties.
• Gut microbiota alterations have been linked to increased gastrointestinal inflammation and motility issues, exacerbating reflux symptoms.
Probiotic supplementation presents a safe, evidence-based alternative for restoring gut balance and alleviating symptoms.
The Role of BioGaia Protectis Baby Drops in Infant Gut Health
BioGaia Protectis Baby Drops contain Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, one of the most extensively studied probiotic strains in paediatric gastroenterology. This strain naturally colonizes the human gut and has been clinically proven to:
1. Reduce Colic Symptoms
• Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrate that Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 reduces daily crying duration by up to 50% in colicky infants compared to placebo.
• The probiotic exerts its effects by modulating gut inflammation, improving gut motility, and reducing gas production.
2. Promote Regular Bowel Movements
• Increases stool frequency and softens stool consistency, aiding in the relief of functional constipation.
• Supports gut motility by promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids and improving microbial diversity.
3. Help Manage Infant Reflux
• Strengthens the gut barrier and modulates gastric emptying, potentially reducing regurgitation episodes.
• A study published in JAMA Paediatrics found that probiotic supplementation reduced GER symptoms in preterm infants.
Clinical Considerations and Recommendations for Pharmacists
As frontline healthcare providers, pharmacists play a key role in educating parents about the benefits of probiotic supplementation for infant gut health. When recommending BioGaia Protectis Baby Drops, consider the following:
• Safety profile: Suitable for use from birth, free from artificial additives, allergens, and preservatives. Over 250 published articles in key journals.
• Administration: 5 drops daily (directly into the mouth, on a spoon, or soother).
• Duration of use: Probiotic effects are cumulative; continued daily use is recommended for sustained benefits.
For infants experiencing persistent colic, constipation, or reflux, BioGaia Protectis Baby Drops represent a clinically supported, non-pharmacological intervention that can significantly improve symptoms and overall gut health thanks to containing Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, and provide a scientifically validated approach to supporting microbiome balance, reducing colic symptoms, alleviating constipation, and mitigating reflux.
These probiotic drops offer a safe, effective, and evidence-based recommendation for parents seeking to improve their baby’s digestive health without the need for pharmaceuticals. With the additional option of Vitamin D supplementation, BioGaia ProTectis Baby Drops present a comprehensive solution for supporting early-life gut and immune system development.
Written by Sinead FitzGerald, Owner, HappyTummy.ie
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