Probiotics

Benefits of Probiotics for Pregnant Women

The health of benefits of probiotics is wide and varied. But for pregnant women, their benefits extend beyond pregnancy and can even be beneficial for infants. Here are five ways probiotics benefit pregnant women:

1. It increases nutrient absorption.

One of the most important benefits of probiotics for pregnant women is helping them get the nutrients needed to support the growing fetus in their tummy.

As we all know, pregnant women have different nutritional requirements than the rest of the population. That’s why most of them have to take a prenatal vitamin all throughout pregnancy. Despite this, around 20-30% of pregnant women still suffer from vitamin deficiency which can lead to birth defects and complications during pregnancy.

This leads us to the probiotics’ role in the matter. Probiotics have been proven to increase our body’s ability to absorb nutrients, specifically protein and iron. These two nutrients are some of the most important ones during pregnancy. That’s why in addition to taking a prenatal vitamin, you should consider including probiotics in your diet.

2. It reduces the risks of diseases and conditions during and post-pregnancy.

Pregnancy poses a risk of contracting various diseases for both mother and child. Research supports probiotics having a positive impact in reducing the chances of gestational diabetes mellitus, infant eczema, atopic dermatitis, and postpartum depression. Probiotics have also been shown to promote vaginal health and reduces the risk of developing vaginal infections. This is especially important for pregnant women who plan to have natural births.

3. It reduces digestive issues during pregnancy.

Fluctuating hormonal levels, dietary changes, and added stress can often cause digestive problems in pregnant women. In fact, almost all pregnant women had to deal with frequent bouts of diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome. This is where probiotics can help.

Among the most well-known benefits of probiotics are its positive effects on bowel movement and health. Since probiotics mainly inhabit the gut, their impact on gut health is evident. A research study showed a 21% increase in the recovery rate from diarrhea after taking probiotics. 

4. It molds your child’s microbiome.

One of the major reasons why expecting mothers are hesitant to take probiotics is the fear that it can negatively affect their baby’s health. Probiotics, after all, are a type of bacteria. And newborn babies are especially susceptible to infection from a wide range of bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and viruses.

But as various studies have proven, probiotics are safe for pregnant women and full-term newborns. Plus, mothers tend to pass on beneficial microbes to their babies during breastfeeding. These beneficial microbes help populate the newborn’s microbiome which leads to a healthy gut and a strong immune system.

Another lesser known benefits of probiotics to newborns is better brain health. When a baby’s microbiome is balanced, it strengthens the gutbrain axis – the communication network that connects the brain with the guts. This, in turn, helps in your baby’s early brain development.

5. It reduces the risk of pre-term delivery.

A research paper was published in the “Journal of Clinical Gynecology & Obstetrics.” It studied the probiotics’ effects on preventing pre-term deliveries. It showed that taking Lactobacilli, a probiotic strain present in most dairy products, in the early stages of pregnancy greatly lowered the risks of pre-term birth. These bacteria also appeared to play a key role in vaginal health, fighting pathogens, and maintaining a woman’s pH level down there.

Another review published in 2020 found that those who took probiotics are more likely to carry their babies up to full term. In addition, they have a significantly lower risk of death and necrotizing fasciitis.

The Best Probiotics for Pregnant Women

As mentioned above, expecting mothers need to take probiotics that are specially formulated for pregnant women. If you didn’t know, there are hundreds of probiotic strains out there. Each of them benefit the body in different ways. For instance, if you’re pregnant and you’re taking a probiotic supplement geared for skin health, you can’t expect it to benefit your baby or ease your pregnancy woes.

So if you’re expecting, here are the best probiotic strains for pregnant women according to science:

Lactobacillus reuteri

Lactobacillus reuteri is one of the most studied probiotic strains. It’s found in a variety of foods and also naturally resides within our body specially in the gut and urinary tract. But what many people don’t know is that L. reuteri can also be found in the breast milk of pregnant and lactating women. When transmitted to the infant, it can help boost their gut health and gives them better immunity against inflammatory diseases.

A randomized controlled trial published on the European Journal of Pediatrics also concluded the effectivity of L. reuteri against infantile colic. The study was participated by 145 healthy pregnant women, more than half of which were given daily doses of L. reuteri for 5 months. They found that taking L. reuteri during the last four weeks of pregnancy can reduce the severity or totally prevent the occurrence of infantile colic.

Lactobacillus paracasei

Another well-studied strain, L. paracasei is known for its immune-boosting properties and for reducing the recovery time by an average of three days. This makes them incredibly important for expecting mothers. It helps boost immune cells and reduce the risk or severity of infections.

One controlled trial conducted in 2012 also suggests that administering a combination of various probiotic strains can help reduce the risk of eczema in infants. These strains include lactobacillus rhamnosus, bifidobacterium longum, and lactobacillus paracasei.

Lactobacillus acidophilus

1. acidophilus is commonly used to treat and prevent diarrhea. But since evidence suggests that it can also  the American Pregnancy Association specifically recommends L. acidophilus to treat vaginal yeast infections. 

A 2010 study also found that women who take L. acidophilus while pregnant or breastfeeding can help reduce the incidence of eczema (atopic dermatitis) in infants.

Lactobacillus casei

Like most strains in this list, L. casei is generally considered safe and are typically used to treat various types of diarrhea. But they can also be effective against allergies, dermatitis, and vaginal infections. Because of changing hormone levels, vaginal infections are quite common in pregnant women. While they may not be life-threatening, it can cause birth defects in your baby. This is why L. casei is often recommended for pregnant women suffering from bacterial vaginosis and similar types of infections. Studies also suggest that L. casei might be effective against vulvovaginal candidiasis.

Bifidobacterium lactis

Though there is limited research on bifidobacterium lactis, many experts agree that it may help against irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, and constipation.

In pregnant women, B. lactis is especially beneficial for preventing eczema in infants. A randomized controlled trial participated by 112 pregnant women with a family history of allergic diseases seem to confirm this. The women in the study were given a daily dose of probiotic mix consisting of bifidobacterium lactis, lactobacillus acidophilus, and bifidobacterium bifidum. The results indicate that the probiotic mixture is effective in preventing the development of eczema in infants.

Probiotics Against Different Types of Constipation

Probiotics for Constipation in Children

A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials published in 2017 claimed that probiotics are effective against constipation in children. The review examined six clinical trials and found that probiotics increase stool frequency in Asian children. It did not, however, have any effect on stool consistency.

But another randomized controlled trial claimed that probiotics could improve both stool frequency and consistency in children. With these mixed results, more research is still needed to establish the effectiveness of probiotics.

Probiotics for Irritable Bowel Syndrome

As mentioned, IBS is one of the leading causes of constipation. There are a lot of studies exploring the effect of probiotics on IBS. Most of them came up with the same conclusion: probiotics work against bowel syndrome.

For instance, a review published in 2015 concluded that probiotics could reduce pain and severity of symptoms in IBS patients. Another study found that a mixture of different probiotic strains is effective against IBS and can even help modify gut microbiota.

Probiotics for Pregnancy-Related Constipation

In one clinical trial, researchers found that eating yogurt can help improve symptoms of constipation during pregnancy. The study was participated by 60 constipated pregnant women from Iran. They were given 300 grams of yogurt enriched with bifidobacterium and lactobacillus. At the end of the study, the women reported an increase in stool frequency. In addition, other constipation symptoms like straining, obstruction, and stool consistency and color have all reportedly improved.

Probiotics for Medication-Induced Constipation

It’s pretty common for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy to suffer from constipation. But according to this study, Bifidobacterium tetragenous viable bacteria tablets can help treat functional constipation in cancer patients. As the name suggests, this product contains Bifidobacterium, a probiotic strain typically used for constipation.

A clinical survey conducted in 2017 for cancer patients found that more than a quarter of them are taking probiotics with minimal to no side effects. Most of them are also willing to take probiotics should they be recommended by the doctor.

Best Probiotic Strains for Constipation

To maximize the effects of probiotics, it’s essential to take the right strain. You see, there are hundreds (possibly thousands) of probiotic strains. Each of them has different functions and benefits. So if you take a strain that’s intended for acne, for example, don’t expect it to be effective against constipation.

Here are the probiotic strains that you should look for when addressing constipation:

Bifidobacterium lactis

Various studies have proven the effectiveness of Bifidobacterium lactis against constipation.

In Brazil, 30 women suffering from constipation participated in a randomized controlled trial. They were divided into two groups. One group was given fresh cheese enriched with B. lactis for 30 days. The other served as a control group. Results showed that the women who were given probiotics had experienced beneficial effects against the symptoms of constipation.

While in China, 135 constipated women were given fermented milk with B. lactis. After two weeks, the beneficial effects of probiotics are starting to show. The women noticed improved stool consistency, frequency, and defecation condition.

Lactobacillus casei

A clinical trial conducted in chronically constipated patients showed how L. casei could help ease the symptoms of constipation. The trial lasted for four weeks, during which the patients were given a probiotic supplement containing L. casei Shirota. In the second week of the trial, the patients have already reported improved stool consistency and constipation symptoms. At the end of the trial, up to 89% of patients reported positive results.

How Probiotics Work

When we hear the word “bacteria”, we often associate it with dirt and illnesses. Thus, it’s something we should avoid at all cost. But unknown to many, your body is home to trillions of bacteria – both good and bad. Healthy people have a balanced population of both types of bacteria.

Unfortunately, certain factors like stress and dietary changes can cause an interruption in this balance. When this happens, the bad bacteria multiply exponentially and takes over the good ones. Think of it as like two countries fighting for territory. When one country has very few soldiers defending it, the enemy can just barge in and gain control. In this case, your body is the territory and the good and bad bacteria are the two opposing countries. When the bad bacteria triumphs, it can obviously lead to undesirable consequences.

This is where probiotics enter the picture. They help replenish your body’s population of good bacteria thus restoring balance to your microbiome. As mentioned, this balance keeps the bacteria at bay which, in turn, prevents illnesses and restores your overall health.

Digestive Enzymes vs. Probiotics

In a nutshell, the main difference between digestive enzymes and probiotics is their composition and function. Digestive enzymes are non-living proteins while probiotics are living microorganisms. The former helps the body digest foods and absorb nutrients to keep it functioning properly. While the latter helps the body function properly by keeping the bad bacteria in check.

Can You Take Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes Together?

Probiotics and digestive enzymes are essential to keep your body healthy. But since they play different roles and do different things, there’s nothing with taking enzymes and probiotics together.

Each has its own benefits, so you don’t necessarily have to choose which one is better. Taking both digestive enzymes and probiotics together promotes optimal digestion and boosts your body’s immune function.

Remember, however, that supplements affect different people in different ways. As such, it’s always a good idea to consult your doctor first before taking any type of supplement.

Best Probiotic Strains for Candida

One way to ensure the effectiveness of probiotics is to take the right strain. You see, there are hundreds (if not thousands) of probiotic strains out there. Each of them has a different function.

So what is the right probiotic strain to get rid of candida?

In general, all types of probiotic strains offer some sort of protection against candida. But studies made on the following strains showed that they are more effective against candidiasis.

1. Saccharomyces boulardii

Just like C. Albicans, S. boulardii is a type of yeast. It’s known to prevent and treat various intestinal infections caused by bacteria.

A study conducted in Poland demonstrated the inhibitory effect of Saccharomyces boulardii on C. Albicans culture. Researchers found out that this probiotic strain helps prevent candida overgrowth by reducing the yeast’s adhesion capability. It creates a biofilm that coats the surface thereby preventing the adhesion of C. Albicans.

2. Lactobacillus acidophilus

Lactobacillus bacteria have traditionally been used to treat vaginal yeast infections. But a 2005 study revealed that L. acidophilus also works against oral thrush. The study fed candida-infected mice with L. acidophilus. By day 6, the yeast in their oral cavities was reduced to an undetectable number.

3. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1

In a clinical trial conducted on 80 premature infants, the effect of L. rhamnosus on candida infection was ascertained. The infants received L. rhamnosus for six weeks. Results showed that they are significantly less likely to have their intestines colonized by C. Albicans compared to those who are not receiving probiotics.

Another study using probiotic cheese confirmed this. The cheese in question contained several probiotic strains like:

• lactobacillus lactis
• lactobacillus helveticus
• lactobacillus rhamnosus GG
• P. freudenreichii

The study was participated by older adults who were given probiotic cheese for 16 days. Results showed a 32% reduction of candida in their saliva.

4. Lactobacillus reuteri RC-14

Various studies have confirmed the antifungal properties of L. reuteri. A study in 2017 showed that L. reuteri wiped out five of the six most common oral Candida species. It’s especially antagonistic towards C. Albicans.

In Sweden, a study investigated the effects of L. reuteri on the prevalence of oral candida in elderly patients. 215 residents from 20 nursery homes received daily doses of L. reuteri for 12 weeks. Results showed up to 53% reduction in Candida counts in the subjects’ saliva.

5. Lactobacillus casei

A 2011 study on malnourished mice revealed that the addition of lactobacillus casei in their diets helped normalize their immune response against C. Albicans. It also allowed the activation of phagocytes, a type of cell that absorbs and isolates bacteria. The probiotic treatment also triggered an increase in immune-boosting cytokines which prevented inflammation. Its effect on humans, however, is yet to be determined.

Top-Rated Probiotics For Candida

To help you decide which probiotic supplement to purchase, we’ve scoured online review sites and forums. Here are the most recommended probiotics for candida infections:

• Jarrow Formulas Sacharomyces Boulardii & MOS
• Florastorkids Daily Probiotic Supplement
• Nature’s Bounty Acidophilus Probiotic 100 Million Organisms
• Balance One Probiotics
• Nature’s Way Women’s Probiotics
• Physician’s Choice Women’s Probiotics

Other Treatments for Candida

Aside from probiotics, there are other natural ways to treat candida. Some of them are:

Candida Cleanse Diet

To effectively put an end to candida infection, you need to address the problem at its root. Since it’s caused by an overgrowth of bacteria, the first thing you need to do is to prevent the bacteria from multiplying.

Unfortunately, some of the foods you eat may be causing bacterial overgrowth. Remember that most bacteria feed on sugar. So if you’re eating sugar-rich foods, you’re just enabling the bacteria.

This is why you need to do a candida cleanse diet. It involves removing sugar, white flour, yeast, and processed foods from your meals thereby reducing the risk of bacterial overgrowth.

Antifungal Treatment

As mentioned, C. Albicans is a yeast-type fungus. This is why antifungal medication like clotrimazole is often recommended for candidiasis. Alternatively, you can also use natural antifungals such as:

• garlic
• grapefruit seed extract
• berberine
• caprylic acid (an active ingredient in coconut oil)
• apple cider vinegar
• aloe vera
• turmeric
• powdered licorice
• tea tree oil

Hydrogen Peroxide

The antibacterial properties of hydrogen peroxide are pretty much established. We’ve been using it to treat our wounds for decades. As such, topical application of hydrogen peroxide can help prevent candida overgrowth on the skin.

Recently, however, many candidiasis-dedicated websites suggest that taking diluted food-grade hydrogen peroxide may help treat candida. While the topical application of hydrogen peroxide might be good for candida, ingesting it may cause more harm than good. Remember that it’s mostly oxygen and as such has strong oxidizing effects. Oxidation, if you didn’t know, can cause a lot of damage to healthy cells and, in some cases, may even cause cancer.

Besides, C. Albicans themselves are capable of producing and synthesizing hydrogen peroxide. In short, you’re much better off applying it on your skin than taking it in.

When all is said and done, it’s still better to be safe than sorry. So before you start taking any medication or supplement, don’t forget to consult your doctor.

Coughing with Fever

When you find out that your child has a cough and a fever at night, you should not be alarmed. Instead, you should keep an eye on the signs and see if they worsen over time. 

Below are some of the symptoms flu have:

• fever
• coughing
• vomiting
• loss of appetite

Remember that toddlers may develop a middle ear infection if the condition worsens without medication. Additionally, you should not give aspirin to toddlers when they have a fever. Instead, acetaminophen or ibuprofen should be provided.

One more thing, coughing and fever are two of the most common symptoms of COVID-19. If you think that your child has COVID-19, you should speak with a doctor immediately. Start self-isolating and request to get a test done, especially when your child mingled with people who have recently tested positive for the illness.

7 Best Natural Toddler Cough Remedies

If you think your toddler’s nighttime coughing is just getting started, try natural treatments first to avoid things getting worse. Before seeing a specialist, try any of the natural remedies mentioned below and see if the coughs will improve.

1. Probiotics

While probiotics do not specifically cure coughing, they do help stabilize the gastrointestinal flora. People who take a probiotic supplement regularly have a 50% reduction in coughs and colds.

According to The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH, although the data is still inconclusive, a trusted source found a reduction in the number of people developing upper respiratory infections after being administered different strains of probiotics.

Since there are many different types of probiotics, you can consult a doctor to determine which one is best for you and your disease. Probiotics can be obtained most naturally: by consuming fermented foods, such as:

• Miso
• Sauerkraut
• Yogurt
• Kefir
• Sourdough

2. Honey

Honey has been used to treat sore throats for a long time now. You can mix up to 2 teaspoons of honey with herbal tea or warm water and lemon to try and cure your cough at home. Additionally, honey and cinnamon can aid in removing phlegm from the throat while also boosting the immune system. The lemon juice mixed with honey contains antioxidants that can help improve the immune system and clear mucus.

3. Peppermint

Peppermint leaves are well-known for their inherent soothing qualities and can be obtained by consuming peppermint tea or inhaling peppermint vapors from a steam bath. Peppermint contains menthol, which soothes the throat and serves as a decongestant. It can aid in the breakdown of mucus. Alternatively, a steam bath can also do the job, with 3 or 4 drops of peppermint oil added for every 5 ounces of hot water.

4. Bromelain

Bromelain is believed to treat allergies and asthma-related respiratory disorders. It is a combination of enzymes found in pineapple juice and has powerful anti-inflammatory effects. It is also thought to have mucolytic properties, which can help in the breakdown and expulsion of mucus.

In addition, it is good to eat a slice of pineapple or consume 3.5 ounces of fresh pineapple juice three times a day to reap the maximum benefits from pineapple and bromelain. If you’re taking antibiotics like amoxicillin, be cautious about using bromelain since it can boost the antibiotic’s absorption. However, if you’re not a fan of pineapple, there are vitamins you can take instead.

5. Marshmallow

Most people associate marshmallows with white, puffy confections that they love baking or roasting over a campfire. Althea officinalis, a herb that has been used as an alternative medicine for over 2,000 years, is the source of these spongy edibles. The herb’s leaves and roots have been used to cure sore throats and prevent coughs. Mucilage, used in marshmallows, covers the throat and soothes discomfort.

The harvested components of an officinalis are the root and leaf systems, which are then washed and dried. Solvents ranging from water to methanol are used to create extracts of plant materials for medicinal use.

Marshmallow root is now available as a tea or in capsule form. This is good for coughs that are followed by sore throats.

6. Water with Salt Gargle

Bacterial overgrowth in the mouth can contribute to gum disease and tooth decay. Remember that children under the age of six are not very adept at gargling. For this age group, it is best to explore alternative treatments. Gargling with salt water regularly can help remove bacteria from the gums, which aids in cleaning and avoiding plaque and tartar accumulation.

7. Thyme

Thyme isn’t just useful for flavoring poultry; it is also an effective cough suppressant. To make Thyme tea at home, combine 2 teaspoons of crushed thyme leaves and 1 cup boiling water. Before straining, cover and steep for 10 minutes. The leaves include flavonoids, which calm the muscles in the throat that cause coughing and reduce inflammation.

5 Ways to Prevent Coughing

Learning how to cure a cough is good. However, it is much better if you know how to avoid getting one in the first place. Remember that prevention is always better than cure. 

Below are tips you can practice to avoid getting cough:

1. Avoid making contact with sick people. If you think you’re sick, stay at home and relax and prevent infecting others.
2. When you cough or sneeze, ensure that you cover your nose and mouth.
3. To lessen the mucus, use a humidifier.
4. Avoid inhaling irritants like pollen, perfumes, and toxins.
5. Elevate your head with an additional pillow at night.
6. Reduce the mucus with apple cider vinegar (diluted or mixed with honey).

Allergy shots can also be beneficial in reducing the susceptibility to allergens. Trees, spores, dust mites, animal hair, mold, and insects are all common allergens. When it comes to allergies, knowing the allergens that may trigger you will help prevent flare-ups.

Final Words

Take action right away if you hear your toddler coughing in the middle of the night. To avoid spending a lot of money on prescriptions and checkups, you can try the natural treatments we’ve included in this article if the symptoms are still mild. However, keep in mind that reactions to these remedies differ from one person to another. If symptoms persist and keep getting worse every day, call your childs doctor immediately.