A child’s learning begins with early brain development in his childhood. While early brain development sets the foundation for future learning, it is also important to establish his immunity. And you do it with prebiotics.
A child’s physical wellbeing can affect his sleep, appetite and mood which in turn affects his ability to focus, concentrate and learn.
A well-functioning immune system is also crucial in young children as health problems could potentially interfere with brain development.
The vast majority (about 70%) of a child’s immune system lies in the digestive tract, providing first line defense against ingested pathogenic bacteria and other organisms1. Thus, maintaining a healthy gut can help support your child’s immune health2.
What are prebiotics?
The presence of good digestive bacteria is crucial for a healthy gut. Prebiotics are a type of non-digestible carbohydrate that is found in foods including some fruits and vegetables.
Prebiotics selectively feed the good bacteria found naturally in the digestive tract. Emerging science suggests prebiotics may support your child’s immune development and function in the intestinal tract3.
A strong immune system is vital for a child’s health.
Examples of non-digestible carbohydrates include, but not limited to: galactooligosaccharides (GOS), polydextrose (PDX), inulin, and fructooligosaccharides (FOS).
Studies have shown that larger, more complex carbohydrates such as PDX and inulin feeds beneficial bacteria throughout the large intestine, while short-chain carbohydrates such as GOS and FOS does the same in the right side of the large intestine4.
Thus, a combination of specific long-chain and short-chain carbohydrates works throughout the large intestine for a more complete support than one of these prebiotics alone.
At this time, many moms are concerned with hard stools and often discuss this issue with their pediatricians. In general, prebiotics can help regulate the absorption of water inside the digestive system and in doing so promotes softer stool.
A healthy child learns better.
Keeping your child healthy should certainly be one of your top priorities as he explores and learn about the world. Make sure your child gets the right nutrients that help support optimal learning for well-rounded development.
Introducing the new Enfamil A+ Stage 2 with 360° DHA PLUS
Every time your child thinks, billions of neurons will connect rapidly for a new learning experience.
That’s why Mead Johnson designed Enfamil A+ Stage 2 with scientifically formulated levels of 17mg DHA and 34mg ARA per 100kcal. It has DHA levels that help meet recommendations for infants aged 6-12 months.
DHA & ARA are important building blocks for brain & eye development.
The new Enfamil A+ Stage 2 with 360° DHA PLUS is formulated with a unique patented blend of GOS & Polydextrose (PDX).
The new Enfamil A+ Stage 2 is also formulated with a unique blend of GOS and Polydextrose (PDX) which is patented in US, Europe, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong.
Prebiotics (GOS) stimulates the growth of beneficial intestinal flora to maintain a healthy digestive system.
To find out more about the new Enfamil A+ Stage 2, click here.
The World Health Organization recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life. Unnecessary introduction of bottle feeding or other food and drinks will have a negative impact on breastfeeding. After six months of age, infants should receive age-appropriate foods while breastfeeding continues for up to two years of age or beyond. Consult your doctor before deciding to use infant formula or if you have difficulty breastfeeding.
References:
- Furness, JB., Kunze, WA., and Clerc, N. (1999). Nutrient tasting and signaling mechanisms in the gut. II. The intestine as a sensory organ: neural, endocrine, and immune reponses. Am. J. Physiol. 277(5 Pt 1):922-8.
- Frick, JS. And Autenrieth, IB. (2013). The gut microflora and its variety of roles in health and disease. Between Pathogenicity and Commensalism. Vol 358:273-289.
- Schley, PD. And Field, CJ. (2002). The immune-enhancing effects of dietary fibres and prebiotics. J. Nutr. 87(Suppl 2):S221-30.
- Hernot, DC., Boileau, TW., Bauer, LL., Middelbos, IS, Murphy, MR., Swanson, KS., and Fahey Jr, GC. (2009). In vitro fermentation profiles, gas production rates, and microbiota modulation as affected by certain fructans, galactooligosaccharides, and polydextroseJ. Agric Food Chem. 57(4):1354-1361
Also read: An open letter to mums: How poor digestion in children affects you