The Benefits of Probiotics for Your Baby

Sep 24, 2025

The gut is home to the trillions of microorganisms that together make up the microbiota. These microorganisms are "friendly" bacteria that can support digestive and immune function. When baby is born, their gut microbiota hasn’t developed yet, but very quickly after birth many different factors affect the makeup of the gut microbiota and it continues evolving through early childhood. For example, whether a baby is born by C-section or vaginal delivery can result in differences in their gut microbiota. Other factors that can have an impact on baby’s developing gut microbiota are if they are breastfed or formula-fed or if they are given antibiotics.

The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in our overall well-being, from digestion to immune function. One way to support the development of baby’s microbiota is by supplementing with probiotics, which are live, beneficial bacteria that, when administered in adequate amounts, offer a health benefit.  Not all probiotics are the same. Each strain has unique properties and functions, meaning that different strains can have different effects on health.

Breast milk naturally contains probiotics and prebiotics that are good for baby’s gut health. For formula-fed babies, some infant formulas, like Good Start® Plus powder formula, contain probiotics like the ones found in breast milk1 to help support a healthy microbiota. For parents looking for another option, probiotic supplements for babies are available in the form of drops, powders, or sachets.

What are the Benefits of Probiotics for Baby?

Probiotics can offer several benefits for babies, including:

  • Support Digestive Health: Probiotics can help balance the gut microbiome and help promote overall digestive health.1 
  • Promotes Regular Stools: Some probiotic strains have been shown to help improve bowel movements and reduce symptoms of constipation in babies.2
  • Reducing Colic Symptoms: Studies show that probiotic L. reuteri helps reduce fussiness in formula-fed babies3 and helps reduce crying time in colicky breastfed babies.3,4
  • Prevent Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea: Some probiotic strains help to prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotic use and can help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.5
  • Supporting the Immune System: Probiotics help promote a balanced gut microbiota, and the gut microbiota plays an important role in the development of the immune system. Certain probiotic strains, like B. lactis, have been shown to help support the immune system and gastrointestinal health of infants.6

Whether through breastfeeding or choosing an infant formula or supplement with probiotics, probiotics can help support your baby’s good gut health. For more information or support, consult your healthcare provider if you have any questions about introducing probiotics to your baby.

References:

1. Saavedra JM. Nutr Clin Pract. 2007;22:351–65.
2. Cocorullo P et al. J Pediatr. 2010;157(4):598-602.
3. Czerkies L, et al. J Pediatr Health Nutr. 2019 ;1(1) :19-26
4. Chau K, et al. J Pediar. 2015; 166(1):74-78.
5. Schneider R,Sant’Anna A. Paediatrics & Child Health. 2022; 27:482–491 
6. Holscher HD, et al. JPEN. 2013;36(1):106S-117S.