How to choose a baby probiotic, according to a pediatric dietitian
Medically reviewed by: Jennifer Agha-Khan MS, RDN
There are many reasons why parents consider adding a probiotic to their baby’s routine. After a course of antibiotics, following a Cesarean birth, or simply because probiotics are known to support gut health, digestion, and immunity. But with so many options available, how do you know which probiotic is best for your baby?
As a pediatric dietitian and a mom of three, this is a question I’ve asked (and been asked) more times than I can count. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to choose a baby probiotic and the key factors to consider before adding one to your baby’s routine.
Does my baby need probiotics?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that can support your child’s gut microbiome. A baby’s microbiome begins forming shortly after birth, often within the first week of life, as their gut becomes colonized by microorganisms from birth, feeding, and the environment. In many babies, this process happens smoothly and probiotics may not be necessary.
However, some infants develop gut dysbiosis, an imbalance between “good” and “bad” bacteria in the gut. This imbalance can disrupt normal digestive and immune function and may contribute to a variety of symptoms.
Signs your baby may be experiencing gut imbalance include:
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Abdominal discomfort
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Constipation
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Diarrhea
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Gas
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Indigestion
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Bloating
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Eczema
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Food sensitivities
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Allergies
It’s important to note that these symptoms on their own do not automatically indicate a gut imbalance, and these symptoms may have multiple causes. That said, in some cases, probiotics may be helpful. They can support the gut by strengthening the intestinal lining, which may improve certain symptoms.
Probiotics are not appropriate for every baby. They are not considered safe for infants who are premature or immunocompromised. Always talk with your pediatrician before starting any probiotic supplement, as they can help determine whether probiotics are necessary and which one is most appropriate for your baby’s individual needs.
What to look for in an infant probiotic
When browsing the supplement aisle, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the options. Here are expert-approved tips to help you make an informed choice for your baby.
Clinically-studied strains
When shopping for a probiotic, choose one that’s been studied to address your baby’s specific health needs. Although research on probiotics is limited, especially in children, we know that not all probiotics are created equal and their benefits are strain-specific.
For example, if your goal is to support your baby’s gut health, look for probiotics clinically-studied to support the infant microbiome, such as:
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Lactobacillus reuteri (Limosilactobacillus reuteri)
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Bifidobacterium infantis
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Bifidobacterium bifidum
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Lacticaseibacillus paracasei,
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Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG
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Bifidobacteria
While probiotics are not intended to directly treat medical conditions, they can help support overall gut health and complement pediatrician-recommended strategies.
Infant-safe formulations
This may seem like a given, but it’s important to choose a probiotic specifically formulated for infants and babies. Infant probiotics are carefully dosed and designed to meet the unique needs of a developing digestive and immune system.
Third-party testing and strict quality standards
Choose a probiotic from a reputable brand that follows strict manufacturing and safety standards and undergoes third-party testing. Independent testing helps verify the product’s quality, purity, and potency, and ensures what’s listed on the label is actually in the bottle.
Ease of use
A supplement is only effective if it’s easy to use. Look for supplement forms that fit seamlessly into your daily routine and are easy for babies to take. For young infants, liquid probiotics can be added to a bottle or directly dropped into the mouth (without the dropper touching the mouth). For older babies who are eating solids, probiotic powders can be mixed into food. Pay attention to practical details, like how easy liquid drops are to dispense and whether powders mix without clumping.
Added ingredients
Many supplements contain added sugars, artificial flavors, fillers, or common allergens. Always read the ingredient label carefully. When choosing a probiotic for your baby, choose one that’s free from added sugars and unnecessary additives. A simple ingredient list is best for an infant with a sensitive digestive system.
But, what about prebiotics and postbiotics?
Although probiotics often get the most attention, prebiotics and postbiotics also play important roles in supporting your baby’s gut health. Probiotics are the “good” microorganisms that live in your baby’s gut, while prebiotics are dietary fibers and carbohydrates that feed them and help them thrive.
Postbiotics are the beneficial compounds produced when probiotics break down prebiotics through fermentation. These byproducts include enzymes and short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which help strengthen the gut lining and overall gut health. Some probiotic formulations include bacterial strains known to produce higher levels of SCFAs, leading to increased postbiotic production and more comprehensive gut support.
When choosing a probiotic supplement for your baby, look for one that includes prebiotics (like human milk oligosaccharides) and SCFA-producing strains, such as Bifidobacteria strains. This combination can enhance effectiveness, provide more comprehensive support, and give you more value for your purchase.
NurtureBio was formulated with exactly this in mind. Our synbiotic combines four probiotic strains naturally abundant in breastfed babies, including Bifidobacterium infantis and Bifidobacterium bifidum, with five HMOs that feed those strains so they can establish, grow, and produce the postbiotics that support your baby's gut. Learn more about NurtureBio.
How to know if the probiotic is working
Probiotics are not a quick fix. It can take several weeks to a few months of consistent use for probiotics to settle in the gut and begin influencing the gut ecosystem. Plus, every baby has a unique microbiome, so the timeline and results can vary from child to child.
Rather than looking for immediate changes, watch for gradual improvements in symptoms over time. Common signs a probiotic may be working include:
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Improved digestive comfort
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Less bloating or gas
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More regular bowel movements
If symptoms worsen, don’t improve after several months, or if you have concerns at any point, stop the supplement and consult your pediatrician for further guidance.
How to choose a baby probiotic: Final thoughts
Choosing a probiotic for your baby can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key points can make the decision a lot easier. Not every baby needs a probiotic, and the right choice depends on your baby’s individual needs and health history. When paired with pediatrician-approved strategies, a probiotic can help support your baby’s gut health as part of a well-rounded, evidence-based approach to care.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can infants take probiotics?
For most healthy infants, probiotics are considered safe when used appropriately. However, they are not recommended for preterm babies or infants with compromised immune systems. Always consult your pediatrician before giving your baby any supplement to make sure it’s appropriate for their specific needs.
Are probiotics safe for babies?
In general, probiotics are safe for healthy babies and can support gut health. Premature infants and those with weakened immune systems should avoid probiotics. Always check with your pediatrician before introducing a supplement to your baby’s routine.
Do breastfed babies need probiotics?
Babies can benefit from probiotics for several reasons, and it doesn’t depend on whether they’re breastfed or formula-fed. While research shows that breastfed babies often have higher levels of beneficial bacteria and breast milk naturally contains probiotics and prebiotics, breastfed babies can still experience gut dysbiosis. In these cases, probiotics can help support their microbiome and overall gut health.
When do you stop probiotics for babies?
Probiotics are most effective when used consistently, but there are times when it’s best to stop. You should discontinue use if your baby experiences an adverse reaction, if symptoms don’t improve after several months, or if symptoms worsen while taking the supplement.
