Scientists Claim Probiotics Reduce Respiratory Illness in Infants
Researchers have found that supplementing infants’ diets with the probiotic Bifidobacterium animalis, subspecies BB-12, can reduce respiratory illnesses by nearly 30 percent compared to a control group.
Innovative Medical Pacifier Tested
The study also provided an opportunity to test a new slow-delivery medical pacifier. This pacifier is designed to administer precise doses of medicine to very young children. It features a small opening in the back plate for storing drugs, and in this study, it was used to deliver BB-12 probiotic tablets.
Specifics of the Study
The research team monitored 109 infants over eight months, starting when the infants were about one month old. Using a double-blind experimental standard, the infants were divided into two groups. One group received the BB-12 probiotic twice daily, while the other group was given a placebo.
Unlike many recent studies on probiotics in older children and adults, the Finnish data did not show significant differences between the two groups in terms of gastrointestinal health or antibiotic use for common illnesses. However, there was a notable reduction in respiratory illnesses among the infants who received the BB-12 probiotic.
Researchers at the University of Turku
“Our new slow-release pacifier has a pouch for inserting food supplement tablets. Before the study began, we tested the delivery method: both the BB-12-xylitol tablet and the control xylitol tablet dissolved slowly and completely within 7 to 15 minutes of sucking. This allowed for controlled delivery of the probiotic tablet,” explained the researchers.
Underlying Connections Between Probiotics and Young Bodies
Public awareness of the benefits of probiotics has increased, leading to their inclusion in various foods and medicinal products. What many people don’t realize is that certain probiotic strains naturally occur in breast milk. These symbiotic strains are believed to have evolved to kick-start the digestive processes in very young humans. Their discovery has prompted further research into the benefits of other probiotic bacteria during early childhood and adolescence.
Further Implications of this New Research
The researchers caution that these findings are preliminary and that more testing on larger infant populations is needed before drawing definitive conclusions. However, they remain optimistic that their findings could lead to new preventative treatments for respiratory infections and other common childhood illnesses. In the meantime, administering probiotics to young children under the guidance of a qualified medical professional appears to be safe.
When considering the health of your children, always research any products they may take and consult your healthcare provider.
