You may have noticed that we’re now selling the Baba West range of probiotics and multivitamins on the BabyJabs website and in our London clinics. This is because there is evidence to suggest that taking probiotics alongside childhood vaccinations can help to improve the efficacy of the vaccines and how long they offer protection.
What are probiotics?
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can help the gut microbiome by providing support for digestion, immunity, mood, skin and sleep. Studies on probiotics have been safely and effectively carried out in a number of populations, including infants.
The Gut-Immune Connection
Research suggests a strong connection between the gut and the immune system, especially in early childhood. Probiotics contribute to a balanced and diverse gut microbiota, fostering an environment that supports the immune system’s development and function.
This is particularly relevant for infants whose immune systems are still maturing. A period known as the “first 1,000 days” describes the critical and formative period of a child’s life from conception through the first two years after birth. It is recognised as a window of significant developmental importance, laying down the foundation for a child’s future health.
In particular, a species of Bifidobacterium, which is prevalent in infants, plays a crucial role during the first 1,000 days in developing the immune system.
This relationship can be understood when comparing infants born via vaginal delivery to those born by caesarean section (CS). Infants born by CS lack early exposure to the maternal microbiota and are first exposed to a more sterile environment at birth. Consequently, they have a delay in the colonisation of Bifidobacterium when compared to infants born by vaginal delay (see graph below). This delay of colonisation could explain why CS-born infants are at a higher risk for developing allergies and obesity later in life.
Table showing Bifidobacterium count (in log10 cell/g of faeces) in infants born by caesarean section (red) compared to those born by vaginal delivery (blue) over time
The benefits of probiotics
Improved Immune Response
Probiotics have been associated with enhancing the body’s ability to mount an immune response. Studies indicate that a healthy gut microbiome, supported by probiotics, may lead to a more robust reaction to vaccinations, potentially improving the effectiveness of immunisation.
Reduced Risk of Infections
A well-balanced gut microbiome, maintained by probiotics, may help reduce the risk of infections in infants. This is essential, as fewer infections mean less stress on the immune system, allowing it to better focus on responding to vaccinations.
Minimised Side Effects
Probiotics may help alleviate common side effects of vaccinations, such as fever or irritability. By promoting a balanced immune response, probiotics may contribute to a smoother experience for both parents and babies during the vaccination process.
Why Baba West?
There are a number of probiotic and multivitamin ranges available for children. Baba West is a company run by two incredible women, Leonora Bamford (mum of three and publisher of leading parenting website, My Baba) and Zita West (a top fertility expert, midwife and author who has her own range of vitamin supplements to support male and female fertility).
The Baba West range brings together science and nutrition and is recommended by a number of respected paediatricians and leading paediatric nutritionists.
Use of Bifikalm for infants
Bifikalm from Baba West is a probiotic formula containing two friendly bacteria strains that possess several beneficial properties for infants during their first 1,000 days. This may play a crucial role in developing their immune system and, subsequently, improving their response to vaccinations.
The bacterial strains in Bifikalm were derived from healthy infants’ guts and chosen for their synergistic effects on paediatric health.
When Bifikalm relief drops are given to infants, they:
- Have the ability to remove pathogenic bacteria from the gut to reduce the risk of infections.
- Aid the digestion of human milk oligosaccharides, supporting a healthy gut colonisation – particularly species of
- Are able to interact with the immune system to produce anti-inflammatory signals. This is vital to reduce inflammation in the gut and ensure the immune system is responding appropriately to potential threats (including vaccines).
- Have anti-bloating effects – this is because the strains of bacteria do not produce any gas and reduce the risk of bloating in babies, which can reduce the risk of discomfort.
Bifikalm is safe to use from birth and can be taken daily by infants. We recommend giving the drops at the recommended dosage prior to and at least three months after your child’s vaccination schedule to help strengthen and support the immune system.
Conclusion
Remember, every child is unique, and what works best for one may not be suitable for another.
For this reason, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals before making any changes to your baby’s health regimen. However, the potential benefits of probiotics alongside vaccinations offer a promising avenue. A healthy gut contributes to a healthy immune system, and the use of probiotics may prove to be a valuable ally in promoting overall well-being in our littlest family members.
