Can probiotics boost a child’s immune system? A double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in Pediatrics (2009; 124(2):e172–e179) examined the effects of probiotic supplementation on immune-related outcomes in young children.
The study involved 110 children between the ages of three and five. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either a placebo, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM (a single probiotic strain), or a combination probiotic. Supplementation was continued for six months, spanning the fall and winter seasons.
Children receiving probiotics experienced a significant reduction in illness-related outcomes. The incidence of fever was reduced by 53% in the single-strain group and by 73% in the combination probiotic group compared with placebo. Probiotic supplementation also reduced other cold and flu symptoms, including coughing and runny nose.
In addition, children in the probiotic groups missed fewer days of daycare. Absences were reduced by 32% in the single-strain group and 28% in the combination group. Antibiotic use was also lower, with a 68% reduction in the single-strain group and an 84% reduction in the combination probiotic group compared with controls.
Based on these findings, the authors concluded that daily probiotic supplementation for six months was effective in reducing fever and other upper respiratory symptoms in young children and was associated with lower antibiotic use and fewer missed daycare days.
Educational note:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice.
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