Probiotics to Prevent Viruses and Colds
Can Probiotic Supplements Prevent Colds and Viruses in Children?
Aug 9, 2009
Cold weather is approaching which means children will be spending more time indoors, increasing their risk of catching colds and flu-like viruses. Along with the colds and flu comes missed days from school and down time which is never a convenience for parents. What if there were a way to prevent those nasty colds and viruses that affect so many children during the winter months? According to a recent study there may be a safe, natural way to prevent colds and flu-like illnesses in children.
Probiotics to Prevent Colds and Flu: A Study
In this study which was published in the journal Pediatrics researchers found that a combination of two strains of probiotic bacteria when given to young children slashed the incidence of colds and viruses by half. Probiotics are “good” bacteria believed to be beneficial in promoting a healthy immune system and maintaining overall good health. These friendly bacteria are being studied for their role in the treatment of some digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and antibiotic induced diarrhea, among other conditions. This is the first study to show that probiotics might reduce the incidence of colds and viruses in children.
Specifically, this study showed that children between the ages of three and five who were supplemented with two strains of probiotics twice a day for six months developed fewer episodes of runny nose, cough, and fever. They also missed fewer days of childcare due to viruses and colds.
Probiotics to Treat Colds and Viruses
The two strains of probiotics used in the study were strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. They found that the combination of the two strains of probiotic bacteria was better than using only a single one. The researchers believe the reduction in viruses and colds seen in these children is a result of the immune enhancing effects of the probiotic bacteria. Probiotic bacteria appear to alter the environment of the intestines making it more hostile to invading viruses and bad bacteria. They also seem to directly alter the immune response so that unwelcome viral and bacterial invaders can be more quickly eradicated.
Is It Safe to Use Probiotics to Prevent Colds in Children?
The use of probiotics to prevent colds and viruses in kids offers little risk as long as the child is healthy. Kids that have immune problems or other illnesses shouldn’t take probiotics except under the care of a doctor. When the immune system isn’t working properly, even friendly probiotic bacteria can sometimes cause problems. When choosing a probiotic supplement, it’s best to a doctor since quality of the supplement can be an issue. There are now prescription probiotic supplements available that may be a better choice.
The Bottom Line
Could probiotics be an effective way to prevent and treat colds and viruses in kids? It looks promising.
References:
Pediatrics Vol. 124 No. 2 August 2009, pp. e172-e179
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