Your guide to supporting baby’s gut health
In partnership with Pampers
A healthy gut is essential for your baby’s growth and development. In fact, a baby’s gut is often referred to as their ‘second brain’. This is because the gut and brain communicate with each other to support baby. As part of my #BabyNutrition series with Pampers to keep healthy babies on the move, this article explores good prebiotic foods to promote the growth of friendly gut bacteria.
Baby’s gut has a big job to do! It is responsible for absorbing nutrients from the food they eat, which helps support their growing bodies. And a balanced gut microbiome is vital for immune system function. In fact, around 70% of the immune system is in the gut. This is where prebiotics come into play.
What are prebiotics?
Prebiotics promote the growth of our friendly bacteria already naturally present in the gut by acting as their food source.
These healthy bacteria, known as probiotics, are essential for a well-functioning digestive system and a strong immune system response. Prebiotics act as food for these good bacteria, helping them thrive.
In these early years, a baby’s gut microbiome is rapidly developing, which is why supporting this growth is so important. The introduction of prebiotics into your baby’s diet can help establish a foundation for healthy digestion and immunity that can benefit them for years to come.
The role of prebiotics in your baby’s health
1. Support digestive health
A well-balanced gut microbiome promotes better digestion. Prebiotics can help babies break down and absorb nutrients from their food more efficiently, which is especially important as they transition from milk to solids. This can also reduce the likelihood of digestive discomfort, such as constipation or bloating.
2. Boost immunity
A strong gut is directly linked to a healthy immune system. This is essential for fighting off infections. Prebiotics encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria that support the gut’s immune functions, helping to protect your baby from common illnesses.
3. Improve gut flora balance
A baby’s gut microbiome is heavily influenced by their diet and environment. By adding prebiotics to their meals, you help establish a balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria, which is essential for healthy gut flora.
Signs your baby may benefit from prebiotics
Here are some signs that may indicate that your baby could benefit from extra support in their gut health.
Constipation: If your baby is struggling with constipation and all blocked up, prebiotics can help by softening stools and improving digestion.
Frequent colic or gas: Prebiotics help balance gut bacteria, which may alleviate discomfort caused by excessive gas or colic.
Frequent illness: A weakened immune system can make babies more susceptible to infections. Prebiotics can support the gut and, in turn, boost immunity.
What foods can support baby’s gut health?
Once you’ve begun introducing solids, at whichever texture you feel most comfortable, including foods such as oats, bananas, pieces of whole wheat toast and soft-cooked asparagus can help your baby grow healthy gut bacteria.
12 gut-friendly foods
For most babies and children, a balanced and varied diet is the most important aspect of promoting diverse gut bacteria.
Here are my top 12 prebiotic foods to support baby’s gut health:
Protecting baby's skin during weaning
A well-balanced gut microbiome helps with digestion and regular bowl movements. And I’ve been working with Pampers on learning about the benefits of using Premium Protection Nappies together with Harmonie Aqua Baby Wipes to help protect healthy skin.
*Remember to bin your wipes and not to flush them.
