What to Look for in a Baby Probiotic

Probiotics for babies are becoming increasingly popular as parents seek natural ways to support their little one’s gut health, digestion, and immunity.

Click here for the 3 Best Types of Probiotics for Babies.

With so many products available, knowing what to look for in a baby probiotic can help ensure you're choosing a safe and effective option for your little one. Here’s what to consider when shopping for a baby probiotic.

Clinically Studied Strains

Not all probiotics are the same, and specific strains have been studied for their benefits in infants. Look for strains that address common baby health issues:

• Bifidobacterium infantis: Supports a healthy gut microbiome and is naturally abundant in breastfed babies.

Here's why a Pediatrician recommends Bifidobacteria for babies.

• Bifidobacterium lactis: Helps with digestion and may improve stool frequency and consistency.
• Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG: Known to reduce colic, diarrhea, and eczema risk (Thomas et al., 2010).

Products that clearly list these strains, along with their benefits, are more likely to be effective.

Safety and Age-Appropriate Formulation

Always choose probiotics designed specifically for babies. These products have been formulated with dosages and delivery methods that are safe for infants and toddlers. Probiotics for babies often come in powder, liquid, or drop form for easy mixing with milk or food.

High CFU Count (Colony-Forming Units)

The CFU count indicates the number of live bacteria in each serving. For babies, a daily dose of 1–10 billion CFUs is typically sufficient, depending on the health concern being addressed (Underwood et al., 2011). Products with lower CFUs may not be as effective, while excessively high doses are unnecessary for infants.

Prebiotic + Probiotic Combination

Some baby probiotics include prebiotics, which act as food for probiotics, enhancing their effectiveness. For example,Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) are a natural prebiotic found in breast milk that supports the growth of beneficial bacteria.

Choosing a product that combines probiotics with prebiotics, such as Begin Health's Beginbaby Prebiotic + Probioticsoffers a synergistic effect for better gut health.

Begin Health Expert Tip

Click here to learn more about how Beginbaby Prebiotic + Probiotics is key to nourishing your baby during early infancy.

Free from Harmful Additives

Ensure the product is free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, and unnecessary fillers. Look for hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens such as gluten and soy, especially if your baby has sensitivities.

Here are the top ingredients to avoid in baby prebiotics and probiotics.

Packaging and Storage

Probiotics are live organisms and need proper storage to remain effective. Choose a product with secure, airtight packaging to protect the bacteria from heat, light, and moisture. Some probiotics require refrigeration, so check the label for storage instructions.

Reviews and Certifications

Look for products that are third-party tested for quality and safety. For more information on our third-party testing practices, check out this blog here. 

Conclusion

A good baby probiotic will feature clinically studied strains, be age-appropriate, and include a balanced CFU count. For the best results, consider products that combine probiotics with prebiotics, such as HMOs, to mimic the natural benefits of breast milk. 

Summary

When choosing a baby probiotic, look for clinically studied strains, an appropriate CFU count, and hypoallergenic, additive-free formulations. Products with prebiotics like HMOs offer added gut health benefits, making them a great choice for overall digestive support.