Probiotics for Infants: Managing Diarrhea and Digestive Health

Infant Diarrhea / Probiotics

The baby is currently on a diet of 2/3 breast milk and 1/3 formula (if there is gastroenteritis, breast milk will be the main source).
The primary caregiver has been a nanny since the baby was two months old.
The baby has had issues with colic since then and was seen by a doctor for gastroenteritis at three months.
Now, almost five months old, the baby has had diarrhea for four days, but is active and does not have a fever.
However, the frequency of bowel movements has increased to 4-5 times a day (with mucus and a sour smell).
Additionally, there is a period of milk refusal for about two weeks each month (with an average milk intake of around 600 ml per day).
Due to gastrointestinal issues, new solid foods cannot be introduced; the baby is only consistently eating rice porridge.

I would like to ask the doctor if it is advisable to introduce probiotics to improve the beneficial gut bacteria for the baby.
The baby was born on July 4, 2016, and is almost five months old, with a birth weight of 2540 grams.
At four months, after receiving vaccinations, the baby weighed 6300 grams.
It feels like the baby is growing taller but not gaining weight.
The gastrointestinal issues, milk refusal, and solid food introduction are really concerning for me as a mother.

rita, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/02

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics

At 4 months old, the baby has gained nearly 4 kilograms compared to their birth weight, which is more than double the birth weight, indicating that the birth weight is normal.
At this age, the baby can only consume infant rice cereal and diluted fresh fruit juice, making it difficult to introduce new foods.
The introduction of complementary foods requires patience, and as the baby grows older, the variety will gradually increase.
Height and weight gain are normal, and activity levels are appropriate; this is a benign phase of milk refusal, which is not concerning.
If the frequency of bowel movements increases and the water content is higher than before, it is defined as diarrhea.
It is acceptable to add probiotics, but it is important to choose probiotics that are certified by the relevant authorities and safe for infants.

Reply Date: 2016/12/02

More Info

When it comes to managing digestive health and diarrhea in infants, probiotics can play a significant role. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts. They are particularly beneficial for infants who are experiencing gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, especially following infections like gastroenteritis.

In your case, your baby has been experiencing diarrhea for four days, with increased frequency of bowel movements and changes in stool consistency. This situation can be concerning for any parent, but it’s important to note that the presence of mucus and a sour smell in the stool can indicate a disruption in the gut flora, often due to an infection or dietary changes. Given that your baby is still active and does not have a fever, this is a positive sign, but it is essential to address the diarrhea to prevent dehydration and further complications.

Introducing probiotics can be a beneficial step in restoring the balance of gut bacteria. Probiotics can help in several ways:
1. Restoration of Gut Flora: After an episode of diarrhea, especially due to viral infections, the natural balance of gut bacteria can be disrupted. Probiotics can help replenish beneficial bacteria, which can aid in digestion and improve stool consistency.

2. Reduction of Diarrhea Duration: Studies have shown that certain strains of probiotics can reduce the duration and severity of diarrhea in children. They can help in the recovery process by enhancing the gut's ability to absorb nutrients and fluids.

3. Improvement of Digestive Health: Regular intake of probiotics can support overall digestive health, potentially reducing the frequency of gastrointestinal issues in the future.

In your situation, since your baby is almost five months old and has a history of gastrointestinal issues, it would be advisable to consult with your pediatrician before starting any probiotic regimen. They can recommend specific strains that are safe and effective for infants. Commonly used probiotics for infants include Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium species, which have been studied for their efficacy in treating diarrhea.

Additionally, while probiotics can be beneficial, it’s crucial to ensure that your baby remains hydrated, especially during episodes of diarrhea. Oral rehydration solutions may be recommended to prevent dehydration.
Regarding the introduction of solid foods, it’s understandable that you may be hesitant due to your baby’s gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to proceed slowly and introduce new foods one at a time, monitoring for any adverse reactions. Rice cereal is often a good starting point, as it is gentle on the stomach. If your baby continues to have issues with new foods, it may be worth discussing with your pediatrician or a pediatric nutritionist for tailored advice.

Lastly, the concern about your baby’s weight gain is valid. While growth patterns can vary, consistent monitoring of weight and height is essential. If your baby is not gaining weight as expected, your pediatrician may suggest further evaluations or dietary adjustments.

In summary, probiotics can be a helpful addition to your baby's diet to manage diarrhea and support digestive health. However, always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making significant dietary changes. They can provide guidance tailored to your baby’s specific health needs and ensure that any interventions are safe and effective.

Similar Q&A

Are Antibiophilus and Bifidobacterium Safe for Infants?

The baby is currently almost one year old and I would like to supplement with probiotics. The baby usually has hard stools, and based on a friend's suggestion, I would like to know if these two options are suitable for infants: 1. Chinese name: 阿德比膠囊 (Antibiophilus 250mg) - ...

Dr. He Ciyuan reply Pediatrics
Both of these belong to the Lactobacillus genus and can be used, but they are not the primary treatment methods. It is important to note that since the baby is approaching one year old, it is recommended to gradually reduce milk intake and increase the consumption of solid foods....

Managing Diarrhea in Infants: Tips for Parents on Solid Foods

Hello Doctor: I have a baby who is over four months old. A couple of days ago, I gave him sweet potato puree, but shortly after eating, he started having diarrhea, which has lasted for two to three days. Later, on Friday, I took him to a pediatric clinic near my home, where the d...

Dr. Zhang Yingwen reply Pediatrics
Subitram and Bifidobacterium longum - LeSann probiotics are both safe and gentle medications for treating diarrhea in children. If combined with a reduction in formula concentration, the improvement effect may be enhanced. If there is no improvement after 3-4 days or if there is ...

Probiotics for Diarrhea Relief: Finding the Right Strains for You

Hello doctor, I have a tendency to experience diarrhea, especially after eating too much, consuming greasy foods, or eating too quickly. I have been diagnosed with diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). I have undergone examinations such as endoscopy, ultrasound, ...

Dr. Huang Yuru reply Nutrition
Current research indicates that effective strains for improving irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and its gastrointestinal symptoms include Bifidobacteria (commonly referred to as B bacteria) and Lactobacillus acidophilus (commonly referred to as A bacteria). However, it is importan...

Managing Infant Gastrointestinal Health After Rotavirus Infection

The baby is currently 2 months and 12 days old. After being hospitalized for rotavirus infection following the completion of one month, he has been drinking S-26 lactose-free formula. Since being discharged and during two follow-up visits, he has continued on the lactose-free for...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
Supplementing probiotics during gastroenteritis is beneficial, and any probiotic brand that has passed national safety inspections and is suitable for infants can be used. Therefore, Bao Guai Ya probiotics are certainly acceptable.