Probiotics for Kids_ Benefits, Sources, and How to Include Them in Daily Meals

Introduction

Probiotics are a type of yeast or living bacteria found in different kinds of food items. These are specifically beneficial for digestion, enhancing immunity, and maintaining your child's gut health and well-being.

According to nutrients, kids need to consume probiotics to reduce the likelihood of illness, enhance their immunity, and support various body functions. Probiotic consumption can be directly linked to better digestion, reduction, constipation, and indigestion. Moreover, continuous consumption of probiotics may also help a child grow well.

Benefits Of Probiotics For Kids

Before delving into some of the best sources of probiotics, it is essential to understand their benefits. Here are some of the top benefits of incorporating probiotics into your child's diet.

Better Digestion

As per NIH, regular consumption of probiotics may improve a child's digestion. It may also help alleviate problems such as bloating, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). A child who constantly suffers from indigestion may also benefit from consuming different sources of probiotics and see a significant change in their health.

Weight Management

According to Obesity Science & Practice, regular consumption of probiotics may also support better weight management. It may positively influence the reduction in belly fat. Moreover, it can also enhance a feeling of fullness and satisfaction among individuals. This is why nutritionists generally recommend having a bowl of curd with breakfast or lunch.

Better Immunity

According to cells published in 2013, probiotics consumption is also linked to enhanced immunity. They can play a huge role in modulating the immune responses and protecting the body against infections. Probiotics also enhance the production of beneficial gut microbes, which are essential for a person's overall health.

Best Sources Of Probiotics And How To Include Them In One's Diet

If you're looking for some of the best sources of probiotics and ways to add them to your child's diet, then here is a list of food items that you should know about.

Pickles

Fermented pickles have been an essential part of not only Indian cuisine, but also many other cuisines, such as Japanese and Korean, for a long time. Pickles come in a lot of different varieties and have a very long shelf life. According to the Journal of Food Management and Characterization, other types of pickles, such as cucumber pickles, contain higher amounts of probiotics. This means that they could be a healthy source of probiotics, bacteria, and digestion. One can have pickles with their regular meals or even add them to sandwiches.

Buttermilk

According to Plos One published in 2021, buttermilk is also a traditionally fermented dairy product. Generally, one can get two types of buttermilk. This includes both the traditional and cultured varieties of buttermilk. Traditional buttermilk is the type typically consumed in countries like India, Pakistan, and Nepal. Cultured buttermilk, on the other hand, is the cultured variety that is popular in Western countries. Scientifically, traditional buttermilk has a higher amount of probiotics and essential vitamins and minerals. It can be consumed on its own or added to curries for a subtle sour flavor.

Cheese

Even though most varieties of cheese are fermented, not all of these are rich in probiotics. According to IJCMS, semi-hard varieties of cheese, such as mozzarella, cheddar, and Gouda, may contain higher amounts of probiotics compared to other varieties. Moreover, the most common way to protect the probiotic bacteria in cheese is through the aging process. Additionally, cheese is also highly nutritious and a good source of various vitamins and minerals.

Kimchi

According to NIM, kimchi is a popular Korean delicacy made by fermenting vegetables with vinegar, soy sauce, and various spices. Just like pickles, kimchi also has a sour taste with hints of spices. Due to its fermentation, kimchi is a rich source of probiotics and can help enhance a person's immunity. Moreover, kimchi is also quite flavourful and can be a side dish with your regular meals.

Sourdough Bread

According to a 2021 study on microorganisms, sourdough bread contains lactic acid and probiotics that may help enhance microbial production in the body. Moreover, it may also help a child strengthen their immunity and stay protected from different types of health ailments. The fermentation process required for baking bread helps make it healthier compared to regular bread.

Conclusion

Now that you know about the top benefits and sources of probiotics, you can include them in your child's diet and make a meaningful change. After regular consumption, you may see some significant changes in your child's health.