3 Reasons Why Probiotics are Beneficial for Children

As a mother of two girls, I prioritize their health and well-being. In addition to providing them with nutritious meals and encouraging physical activity, I have also incorporated probiotics into their daily routine. Here are three reasons why I give my kids probiotics:

Promoting Good Digestive Health

From a young age, my youngest daughter has struggled with constipation. I believe this is a result of the numerous courses of antibiotics she received to treat recurring ear infections. While antibiotics eliminate the bad bacteria causing the infection, they also flush out the beneficial bacteria that the digestive system requires to function properly.

Probiotics play a crucial role in restoring a healthy balance of good bacteria in the digestive system, allowing it to function smoothly. By incorporating probiotics into my daughter’s routine, she experiences less straining and improved regularity, which has been a true blessing.

Since my girls are still too young to take pills, I opt for probiotic powder that can be easily mixed into their drinks or food. It’s important to note that heat can kill active bacteria, so it’s best to avoid mixing probiotics with hot foods.

Boosting Immune System Health

A few years ago, I discovered a probiotic strain called S. salivarius K12 that had been tested in children and shown to reduce the incidence of strep throat and other viral infections. Given my youngest daughter’s susceptibility to ear infections, this research caught my attention.

I started giving my girls one lozenge of the probiotic each day, which dissolves in their mouth without the need to swallow a large pill. In the three years they’ve been taking it, my youngest daughter has only had one ear infection. Even more impressive, my girls have rarely missed school due to illness. In fact, my older daughter had perfect attendance for an entire school year after starting K12.

Supporting Vaginal and Urinary Health

When my oldest daughter was around 7 years old, I noticed she was experiencing frequent itching in the vaginal area. Initially, I attributed it to sweat during the summer months. However, as the cooler weather arrived, the itching persisted. Concerned, I took her to the pediatrician and discovered that vaginal itching is quite common in young girls.

Due to the shorter female urethra, bacteria can easily reach the vagina, leading to irritation, itching, and unpleasant odor. The primary cause of vaginal itching in young girls is soap irritation, particularly during baths. Bubble baths and residual shampoo in the bathwater can irritate the vulva and create an environment that promotes the growth of harmful bacteria. Improper wiping, such as going back-to-front instead of front-to-back, can also introduce bacteria to the vagina.

Probiotics play a crucial role in crowding out harmful bacteria, promoting better vaginal health, and reducing itching, irritation, and embarrassment for my daughter. Similar to the probiotic powder for digestive health, I mix it with cold beverages or food.

Probiotics address these three health concerns effectively. While they are not an overnight solution, consistent use of probiotics has significantly improved my girls’ overall health and happiness. Remember, there is no magical cure for good health, but probiotics have made a world of difference for my children.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does complementary medicine refer to?

Complementary Medicine, also known as alternative medicine, refers to any medical treatment which is not part of mainstream medicine. It includes treatments such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, chiropractic care, homeopathy, hypnosis, massage therapy, naturopathy, reflexology, traditional Chinese medicine, yoga and others.

Complementary medicine should not be considered in isolation of conventional medicine. Sometimes they’re called “alternative”, or “integrative”, because they combine Western scientific methods along with other therapies that have proven to be effective in healing people.

What is alternative medicine called?

Alternative medicine is a term that covers any treatment approach that is not conventional. Alternative medicine can take many forms, but most of them are rooted in the belief that healthcare should be rooted more in natural remedies and practices than in chemical medicines.

Alternative medicine includes acupuncture.

Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. However, these assertions cannot be scientifically proven because mainstream medical authorities have largely ignored the evidence-based benefits of alternative medicine.

What’s the difference between alternative medicine or complementary medicine?

Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn’t considered standard by mainstream medical practitioners but which has been shown to have benefits for some conditions. Examples include acupuncture, homeopathy, aromatherapy, reflexology, herbal remedies, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Ayurveda, and naturopathy. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.

While both forms of medicine are commonly used, many conventional doctors do not recommend them due to insufficient evidence or safety concerns.

There is not consensus among health professionals regarding the best approach for integrating CAM in patient care.

Many CAM practices are based upon theories that have been around for thousands of years. Some of these therapies may work, according to clinical trials that have been conducted over the last 20 years.

Many studies show that acupuncture may help relieve pain. It may also reduce nausea and vomiting that are associated with chemotherapy, according to preliminary data. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.

Some CAM therapies may also be effective in the treatment of diseases like HIV/AIDS/Asthma, diabetes, heart disease (hypertension), Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, as well as rheumatoid.

Although we have limited information about the effectiveness CAM, most experts agree that it can be helpful in the treatment of various diseases.

As a result, CAM practitioners are becoming more popular as a way to treat common illnesses.

Despite its popularity, many are still confused about what “alternative” and “complementary medicine is.

Which types of treatment are not considered part of holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is a way to heal that examines the whole person instead of just the symptoms. It promotes health and prevents disease.

Holistic medicine is a natural alternative to drugs and surgery.

Holistic medicine involves lifestyle changes such diet, exercise and yoga.

Integrative medicine is also known as holistic medicine. It integrates all aspects, including the patient’s spiritual, mental, and physical needs, into a single comprehensive care plan.

Holistic medicine emphasizes prevention, early detection and healthy living.

Holistic doctors believe in the possibility of multiple causes. They look at the whole picture and consider genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and personal factors.

Holistic practitioners are more concerned with the mind, emotions, or spirit than they are about the body.

Holistic physicians work closely alongside their patients to determine the best treatment for their needs.

Who uses holistic medicine?

Holistic medicine is health care that treats the whole person as opposed to treating specific symptoms. It considers both the mental, and physical aspects.

Holistic medicine encompasses acupuncture and massage therapy, chiropractic treatment as well as nutritional counseling, yoga and other complementary therapies.

Holistic medicine is for people who have been diagnosed as having cancer, heart disease, diabetes, arthritis and depression.

What are the advantages of holistic medicine over traditional medicine?

Many cultures and religions around the globe have been using holistic medicine for thousands of year. They were based on ancient wisdom and experience.

These medications are safe, affordable, effective, natural, as well as cost-effective. The side effects are minimal compared to those of pharmaceutical drugs.

They also help you achieve better health and wellness.

They can help prevent illness and improve your overall health.

They may even cure diseases such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, asthma, depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, etc.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of traditional medicines all over the world. Each one has its own unique benefits.

The World Health Organization estimates that 80% of the population relies on traditional methods to treat illness or injury.

According to reports, half a billion people use traditional herbal remedies as their primary healthcare.

By 2020, the global market for complementary therapy is expected to be worth $22.2 billion.

Alternative medical treatments are becoming more popular to avoid the side effects of conventional treatment.

When other treatments fail, many people resort to complementary therapies. These therapies may be tried before they resort to medication or surgery.

There are many good reasons to choose complementary therapies.

To improve quality of life
To reduce stress levels
For relaxation
To ease your pain
To enhance immunity
Supportive services for dealing with serious diseases
To boost energy
To control weight
To maintain good nutrition
To improve sleep patterns
To deal with chronic conditions

What are the Five Alternative Medical Systems (Alternatives)?

These five alternative medicine systems are Ayurveda (acupuncture), Ayurveda (homeopathy), energy healing, aromatherapy, and homeopathy.

To stimulate the flow and energy of qi (energy), Acupuncture uses fine needles that are inserted into specific points in the body.

Ayurvedic Medicine is an ancient system of health care based on balancing the three humors – air, fire, and water. It includes diet, exercise and herbal remedies. Massage is also included.

Homeopathic Medicine gets its name from the Greek word homoios (similar) and pathos (disease). Homeopaths believe all diseases are caused by natural causes, but not always symptoms. Homeopaths prescribe tiny amounts of substances to cause symptoms that are similar to those experienced by patients when they are ill.

Energy Healing is also known by EFT, Rolfing (emotional touch), Reiki, Rolfing, Rolfing, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch and many other names. This therapy is based upon the belief that all of us are connected to a universal force of life called Ki. Feeling well is possible when the Ki flows freely through you. To restore harmony and balance between our spiritual, physical, and emotional selves, energy healers use touch and intention.

Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants for therapeutic purposes. Aromatherapists believe that certain smells can affect mood and behavior. Lavender is the most popular essential oil used for aromatherapy.

Statistics

In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
The concept of regression toward the mean implies that an extreme result is more likely to be followed by a less extreme result. (en.wikipedia.org)
The use of alternative medicine in the US has increased, with a 50 percent increase in expenditures and a 25 percent increase in the use of alternative therapies between 1990 and 1997 in America. (en.wikipedia.org)

External Links

How To

What can a holistic doctor do differently than a traditional doctor?

A holistic doctor offers a wider range services than a traditional one, including nutritionists, massage therapists, naturopaths and homeopaths.

A holistic doctor treats patients holistically. Instead of treating symptoms, they examine the person and their environment. This approach helps them identify underlying causes and work towards long-term wellness and preventative measures. Holistic doctors may use alternative medicine, including essential oils and herbs. They offer nutritional and dietary advice to help you live a healthy lifestyle.

In addition, holistic doctors offer therapies like acupuncture, reflexology, reiki, shiatsu, yoga, meditation, hypnotherapy, craniosacral therapy, and many others.

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By: Dick Benson
Title: 3 Reasons Why Probiotics are Beneficial for Children
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/immunity/3-reasons-why-i-give-my-kids-probiotics/
Published Date: Fri, 20 Oct 2023 19:41:11 +0000