As parents, one of our main goals is to keep our children healthy. An important aspect of their health is gut health. Prebiotics play a big role in maintaining good gut health and offer many prebiotics benefits. But how do you know if your child needs more prebiotics? Here are some signs to look out for.
1. Frequent Stomach Discomfort
If your child frequently complains of gas, bloating, or stomach pain, it could be a sign of an imbalanced gut bacteria and a lack of prebiotic-rich foods. According to the World Gastroenterology Organisation, prebiotics help the growth of good bacteria in the gut, which is essential for digestion.
2. Changes in Bowel Habits
Be careful of irregular bowel movements, such as constipation or diarrhea. A deficiency in prebiotics can cause harder stools or irregular bowel movements. A study from the Mayo Clinic noted that prebiotics benefits help regulate bowel movements.
3. Frequent Illnesses or Infections
If your child is frequently getting sick, such as with colds or allergies, it could indicate a weakened immune system that could be linked to poor gut health. Prebiotics are important for immune support, according to Harvard Medical School.
4. Mood Swings and Irritability
Gut health can affect a child’s mood. If your child is often irritable or has mood swings, it may be time to check their diet for prebiotic sources. According to a study in Frontiers in Microbiology, the gut microbiome plays an important role in mental health and emotional regulation, which is one of the prebiotics benefits.
5. Skin Problems
Rashes, eczema, or other skin problems are sometimes linked to gut health. A balanced gut microbiome supported by prebiotics can help with these problems. The American Academy of Pediatrics says that gut health is connected to a person’s skin condition.
6. Picky Eating or Food Resistance
If your child is extremely picky about food, especially fruits and vegetables that are rich in prebiotics, it may cause issues with their digestive health.
7. Low Energy
Constant fatigue or low energy levels may indicate that your child’s gut health is affected. A healthy gut is essential for optimal nutrient absorption and energy levels, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
8. Frequent Cravings for Sweets or Processed Foods
If your child frequently craves sweet or processed snacks, it could be a sign that their gut microbiome is out of balance. Prebiotics can help to create a healthier balance of gut bacteria.
9. Frequent Use of Antibiotics
Children who frequently take antibiotics may need more prebiotics to help restore gut health. According to the National Institutes of Health, antibiotics can disrupt the natural gut flora, and prebiotics benefits can help with recovery.
10. General Behavior or Health Changes
Any sudden changes in behavior, such as frequent tantrums, withdrawal, or changes in sleep patterns, may be connected to gut health. Be aware of these signs and consider dietary adjustments.
What Can Parents Do?
- Check Diet: Observe the foods rich in prebiotics (such as bananas, onions, garlic, and whole grains) that your child eats.
- Add More Prebiotics: Try adding more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your child’s meals and snacks.
- Consult a Pediatrician: If you see persistent signs, consult your child’s pediatrician for guidance on dietary adjustments and intestinal health.
Providing your child with proper nutrition is an important step for their health. Prebiotics play a big role in maintaining good gut health, resulting in healthier and happier children. In addition, it is also a good idea to check out growing-up milks that contain ingredients with prebiotic properties such as MOS+, Vitamin D, Selenium, Omega, Iodine, and Vitamin C. These products can help boost your child’s immunity.
- World Gastroenterology Organisation. (2017). Prebiotics and Probiotics: A Guide to Good Health. Retrieved from World Gastroenterology Organisation
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic
- Harvard Medical School. (2019). The Gut-Brain Connection: How Gut Health Affects Mood. Retrieved from Harvard Health
- Frontiers in Microbiology. (2016). The Gut Microbiome and Mental Health. Retrieved from Frontiers
- American Academy of Pediatrics. (2019). Healthy Children: The Importance of a Healthy Gut. Retrieved from HealthyChildren.org
- Cleveland Clinic. (2020). How Gut Health Affects Your Energy Levels. Retrieved from Cleveland Clinic
- National Institutes of Health. (2018). The Impact of Antibiotics on Gut Flora. Retrieved from NIH
Republished with permission from theAsianParent Philippines
