Q&A: Should I give probiotics for diarrhea?

Since probiotics are actually bacteria, many parents are hesitant to administer them to their children. Despite the bad rap they've been given, bacteria are actually necessary to keep our bodies healthy. In healthy people, bacteria make vitamins, release disease fighting substances and teach our immune system how to function. Medications (particularly antibiotics), stress, smoking, and poor nutrition can actually kill off the “good” bacteria in our systems. When that happens, harmful bacteria to flourish and cause such conditions as diarrhea, inflammatory disorders, yeast infections and allergies.

Probiotics introduce good bacteria back into our systems. In fact, many of us unknowingly administer probiotics every day when we eat yogurt, miso, sauerkraut or other fermented foods. People who eat these foods are sick less often, need fewer antibiotics, and are less likely to have allergies or inflammatory diseases. Studies have also shown probiotics to be an effective treatment for diarrhea. ¹

You can buy probiotics as dietary supplements in pill form at your pharmacy or health food store. If you are treating your child, look for a supplement specially prepared for infants and children. Young tummies need different bacteria from adult systems. There are some situations where the use of probiotics may be harmful. Consult with your health care provider if you or your child has an immune disorder or suppressed immune system, or you notice signs of fever, dehydration or bloody stools.

For more information on current research in the use of probiotics, go the usprobiotics.org.

References

• 1. Probiotics look promising in diarrhea, pouchitis, Gastroenterology Canada