The gut plays an important role in our immune system. Its rich environment full of helpful microorganisms is one of our most powerful allies against illnesses and diseases of the world.
These days, however, gut health is harder to maintain due to the food we eat.
But that’s where probiotics come in.
We sat down with consultant pediatrician Dr Ng Yi Ki to learn more about how we can boost our child’s gut health and immunity.
Question 1: Why do some kids seem to catch every bug that goes around?
Getting a little sick is all part of growing up. A child’s immune system is still learning, especially in the early years.
When they go to school or daycare, they’re surrounded by new germs every day, and their body is learning how to fight back.
Parents should know that they’re not actually doing anything wrong, and getting sick is just part of their children’s development!
Question 2: What’s the gut got to do with our immune system?
Actually, a lot! Around 70 to 80% of your child’s immune system lives in their gut.
Inside the digestive system is the gut microbiome; it’s like a busy city of good bacteria that helps train the immune system.
A healthy, balanced gut makes it easier for their body to fight off harmful viruses and bacteria.
It all starts at home – when the gut is happy, the immune system is better equipped to do its job. In a nutshell, it starts with the gut!
Question 3: What are probiotics for, and are all of them helpful when it comes to immunity?
Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that help maintain the balance of your gut microbiome, which, as we now know, plays a key role in immunity.
But here’s the important part: not all probiotics function the same.
Science tells us that the benefits of probiotics are strain-specific.
While some are great for constipation and improving bowel movements, others are helpful in gut infections.
For respiratory health, there is emerging evidence that probiotic strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® and Bifidobacterium lactis BL-04® may help reduce the frequency of upper respiratory illnesses like coughs and colds in children.
By supporting the gut balance, probiotics can actively reinforce your child’s immune system.
So when you’re choosing a probiotic for your child, it’s not just about picking any off the shelf – it’s about picking the right one with the right benefits.
Question 4: Should parents only focus on probiotics during flu season, or are they useful all year round?
Trying to ramp up the immune support only during high-risk periods like school outbreaks of different illnesses doesn’t work, unfortunately.
Apart from probiotics used in cases of acute diarrhea, probiotics are probably more effective when taken consistently for a longer period of time.
Also, don’t forget to keep your child healthy in other ways too.
Ensure they are physically active, eating nutritiously and getting good quality sleep.
These are all very important in building your child’s defenses.
Think of it as strengthening a shield. Getting it ready for those tougher moments that often come unannounced and without warning.
Question 5: What’s the easiest way to make probiotics a part of everyday life, and what should they look out for when purchasing probiotics?
It’s really simple! Look for child-friendly formats and ideally those free from artificial colours, preservatives, or added sugars.
That way, kids and parents could easily mix it into milk, cereal, or a smoothie with zero fuss.
Boost Your Child’s Immunity with BiO-LiFE A.B. Imunix
Parents, if your child is suffering from constant sniffles, coughs, and sick days, here’s something worth considering: BiO-LiFE A.B. Imunix.
BiO-LiFE A.B. Imunix is a probiotic formulated just for children, and it’s not your average supplement.
It contains two clinically proven strains: Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM® and Bifidobacterium lactis BL-04®.
These have been shown to reduce the frequency of common colds, strengthen immune defences, and help kids recover faster.
In short? It helps your child stay strong, so you can worry less.
And the best part? It’s safe for kids aged 2 and up, gentle on little tummies, comes in a yummy vanilla-flavoured sachet, and contains no artificial flavours, preservatives, or added sugars.
Parents and even children themselves can easily mix it into milk, cereal or a smoothie, making it the easiest parenting win of the week.
BiO-LiFE A.B. Imunix is now available via BiO-LiFE official stores on Lazada and Shopee. You can also find it at major pharmacy stores nationwide.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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