Product Spotlight: Physician’s Choice Children’s Probiotic

Kids always seem to be on the move, exploring the wonders of the world around them with an endless supply of curiosity and gusto. Whether it’s excavating a pile of dirt in the backyard for dinosaur fossils or scoring a new hide-and-seek spot under the slide in the playground, it’s hard to predict what kids might get themselves into. To help keep them going, consider the gut-friendly benefits of probiotics.

How Probiotics Can Benefit Children

Children's probiotics can replenish good bacteria in the body to ease digestive issues and help support the child’s overall immune system. Our bodies are made of hundreds of different microorganisms that keep us healthy. Unlike bacteria strains that can be harmful, probiotics are “friendly” bacteria that support proper digestion, assist our bodies in absorbing nutrients and provide immune support(1).*

As children, we develop our microbiome of bacteria, viruses and fungi before we are born. This microbiome allows good bacteria to live harmoniously in the body’s gut, skin, urinary system and saliva. As we develop into adults, the body’s bacteria can become disrupted by harmful bacteria, triggering foods and other environmental factors that can contribute to issues with digestion, skin health and immunity(1). One study found that taking two-strain probiotics including L. acidophilus provided seasonal immune support and reduced school absenteeism in children(2).*

Foods such as yogurt, kefir, pickles, sourdough and some cheeses are naturally full of probiotic strains such as L. acidophilus and keep the microbiome balanced. Still, many yogurts and probiotic drinks, particularly ones that are branded for children, are sweetened with added sugar. One study found that organic yogurts were some of the sweetest of all(3). Too much sugar can actually disturb gut flora and combat the positive effects of the probiotics.

What sets Physician’s Choice Children’s Probiotic apart?

A children’s probiotic can be a good solution for children who do not like the taste of probiotic-rich foods and suffer from occasional digestive issues. Physician’s Choice Children’s Probiotic has a natural berry flavor and contains 5 billion CFUs to support a healthy digestive system for kids as young as four years old.*

Theprobiotic strain Lactobacillus rhamnosus, in particular, has shown to help improve certain immune system functions as it offers long-term benefits compared to other strains(4). Most research focuses on this strain’s ability to ease digestive problems, help promote urinary health and even protect the teeth against cavities.

Some studies show probiotics can also support and improve kids’ moods. The gut produces serotonin in the body, which plays a key role in regulating mood. Ninety percent of serotonin is made in the digestive tract, therefore a balanced microbiome can support regular moods in both children and adults(5).*

What’s in it?

• Lactobacillus acidophilusis a bacteria strain used and researched for its occasional anti-diarrheal properties. This strain creates lactic acid in the body by breaking down carbohydrates to make the gut environment less suitable for “unfriendly” bacteria(6).
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus is a strain found in the intestines that can endure an acidic environment like the stomach. Some probiotic organisms provide short-term relief, while L. rhamnosus provides support for long-term issues with digestion and can even combat cavities(4).
• Vitamin Dhelps the body absorb calcium to make stronger bones, improve mood and strengthen the immune system. This vitamin is only found naturally in a few foods and is mostly created in the body through exposure to sunshine.
• Vitamin C,commonly found in oranges and other citrus fruits, plays a vital role in nutrient absorption and protection from oxidative stress(7).
• Zinc is an essential mineral that has been used in supplements and other mixtures to help boost seasonal wellness. Those with zinc deficiency can experience immune and digestive issues.*

What all Physician’s Choice supplements offer

All Physician’s Choice supplements are made with natural, research-backed formulas. All of our products are manufactured in the USA in cGMP certified facilities and are independently tested for purity. Our supplements are created from ethically sourced ingredients and produced in a contaminant-free environment creating the best product possible for your overall health.

Be sure to consult your doctor or pediatrician before offering your child a probiotic supplement as it can interact with certain antibiotics and medications.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Regina Kaza - Contributing Writer, Physician's Choice