Probiotics for Babies
The short answer
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that may help support digestive health. Some research suggests certain strains (especially Lactobacillus reuteri) may help with colic in breastfed babies. However, the evidence is still evolving, and not all probiotic products are the same. Always talk with your pediatrician before starting any probiotic, as they can recommend specific strains and products if appropriate for your baby.
By Age
What to expect by age
This is when colic peaks and many parents consider probiotics. Some studies show that Lactobacillus reuteri may reduce crying time in breastfed colicky babies. Evidence is less clear for formula-fed babies. Probiotics are generally considered safe for healthy, full-term infants, but always consult your pediatrician first, especially for premature babies or those with immune concerns.
As colic typically improves, the need for probiotics may decrease. If your baby has ongoing digestive discomfort like excessive gas or irregular stools, probiotics may still be discussed with your doctor. The most studied infant strains include Lactobacillus reuteri and Bifidobacterium infantis. Probiotics are not regulated like medications, so choose products specifically designed for infants.
As solids are introduced, your baby's gut microbiome is rapidly diversifying naturally through food exposure. Fermented foods like plain whole milk yogurt (after 6 months) contain natural probiotics and are generally a good way to support gut health. If your baby is on antibiotics, your pediatrician may recommend a probiotic to prevent antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Toddlers can get probiotics through foods like yogurt, kefir, and certain cheeses. Probiotic supplements may be recommended during or after antibiotic courses. For toddlers with chronic constipation or recurrent diarrhea, some studies suggest probiotics may help, though results are mixed. Work with your pediatrician to determine if a specific probiotic would benefit your child.
What Should You Do?
When to take action
- Your baby has typical digestive patterns and you are curious about probiotics for general wellness
- Mild gas or occasional fussiness that is part of normal digestive development
- Your pediatrician suggests trying a probiotic for a specific concern like colic
- Your baby is taking antibiotics and your doctor recommends a probiotic alongside
- You want to start a probiotic and need guidance on which strain and product to choose
- Your baby has persistent digestive issues that are not improving with standard care
- Your baby has any immune system concerns or was born prematurely - probiotics should only be used under medical guidance
- Your baby has a severe allergic reaction after taking a probiotic - swelling, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash
- Your immunocompromised baby develops fever or worsening symptoms after starting probiotics
Sources
Related Resources
Related Digestive Concerns
My Baby's Belly Looks Swollen
A rounded, slightly protruding belly is completely normal in babies and toddlers due to immature abdominal muscles and their proportionally larger organs. However, if the belly becomes suddenly swollen, feels hard and tight, or is accompanied by pain, vomiting, or changes in bowel movements, it needs medical evaluation as it could signal gas buildup, constipation, or rarely, something more serious.
My Baby Has an Anal Fissure (Blood When Pooping)
A small streak of bright red blood on the surface of your baby's stool or on the diaper is most commonly caused by an anal fissure, which is a tiny tear in the skin around the anus from passing hard stool. Anal fissures are very common in babies and toddlers and usually heal on their own with simple measures like keeping stools soft. While this is rarely serious, any blood in your baby's stool should be mentioned to your pediatrician.
My Baby Eats Non-Food Items (Pica)
It is completely normal for babies and young toddlers to explore by putting objects in their mouths. True pica, which is the persistent eating of non-food substances, is uncommon before age two and may be linked to iron deficiency or developmental factors. If your child repeatedly seeks out and eats non-food items past the typical mouthing stage, it is worth discussing with your pediatrician.
Baby Excessive Gas After Starting Solids
Increased gas after starting solid foods is completely normal and expected. Your baby's digestive system is encountering new proteins, fibers, and sugars for the first time and needs time to adapt. The gut bacteria are also diversifying, which naturally produces more gas. This typically improves within a few weeks as the digestive system adjusts to each new food.
My Baby Gulps Air While Feeding
Swallowing some air during feeding is normal for all babies, but excessive air gulping can lead to gas, hiccups, and spit-up. Common causes include fast milk flow, poor latch (if breastfeeding), bottle nipple flow that's too fast or slow, and crying before feeds. Simple adjustments to feeding position, pacing, and equipment can usually help reduce air intake significantly.
Baby Poop Color Changes with Solids
Dramatic changes in poop color after starting solids are completely normal and expected. What your baby eats directly affects stool color - carrots may turn poop orange, spinach makes it green, beets can make it reddish, and blueberries can turn it dark blue-black. As long as your baby is comfortable and the stool is not white, black (tarry), or bright red with blood, these color changes are harmless.