Antibiotics and Acidophilus
A paper recently published demonstrated a potential link
between a baby under 6 months having antibiotics and weight gain later in life (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-19341639).
Much more research needs to be done in this area to see whether there is a true
cause and effect but looking at the impact antibiotics has on the digestive
system may highlight some reasons why this may be the case.
Natural Delivery v
C-Section
When your baby is growing inside you, their GI tract is
sterile with no bacteria living inside it. However, during a vaginal birth there
will probably be a transference of bacteria from your digestive system to your
little one, starting the process of populating your baby’s gut with the good
bacteria. It is less likely for a c-section baby to be exposed to the same
bacteria as a vaginal delivery and is instead more likely to get first bacteria
from external sources such as nursing staff.
It takes approximately one month
for the good bacteria to proliferate and populate the GIT of a natural delivery
yet up to 6 months for a caesarean section.
Yeast and Bacteria
Living Together in Harmony
In your baby’s bowel, yeast and good bacteria (floura) live happily
alongside each other, working away on breaking down foods, regulating water
content, teaching the immune system to respond to the baddies and other amazing
jobs which keep your baby’s stools moving. The yeast however is a bit of a
rogue, wanting to replicate and produce as much yeast as possible but the
friendly bacteria keep it in-check.
As you kiss, cuddles and touch
your baby, more bacteria are transferred increasing the numbers.
Friendly Fire
If a bacterial infection invades, your baby they
may need antibiotics. Antibiotics act a bit like a tsunami – they come in and
take out all the bacteria, both good and bad. If the good bacteria are wiped
out, it gives the yeast a chance to take over and lead to things like thrush,
yeast nappy rash, vaginal yeast infection, diarrhoea or yeast infection of the
breast.
Replenishing
Friendly Bacteria
Acidophilus is a great way of replenishing your friendly
bacteria. Taking Acidopholus for a week after finishing antibiotics may be
beneficial. Look for a brand that is specific for the age of your little one and try making a paste using water or
breastmilk and rub this once a day in your baby’s mouth. If formula feeding,
put the recommended quantity of the powder in the formula once a day.
Always consult with
your doctor or health visitor before giving your child any supplements and
follow the instructions on any products you give your child.
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Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net
Image courtesy of freedigitalphotos.net
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