Colds & Daycare
Why daycare children get sick so often – and how a strong microbiome helps ward off infections. Nutritional tips for robust gut health during winter.
On the one hand, the gut is one of our most important digestive organs and at the same time it is the basis for a strong immune system, healthy development and long-term well-being. Particularly in the first 1000 days of a child’s life, i.e. from pregnancy to around the second birthday, amazing things happen in the child’s body: the microbiome, the entirety of microorganisms, develops, grows and develops sustainably. What happens during this sensitive time has an influence on health right into adulthood!
The baby’s microbiome is already prepared during pregnancy through the mother’s diet and health. The colonization of the child’s intestines really begins at birth: during a natural birth, the baby comes into contact with the bacteria of the mother’s vaginal and intestinal flora for the first time. At birth, the mother’s vaginal flora contains plenty of lactobacilli, which the newborn absorbs together with bifidobacteria. These belong to the so-called lactic acid bacteria. This “first microbe shower” lays the foundation for a diverse, stable microbiome. With a caesarean section, on the other hand, skin and environmental germs initially dominate. This can temporarily limit the diversity of the intestinal flora. Important: This does not mean a disadvantage that cannot be compensated for. Breastfeeding, contact with the mother’s skin and a balanced diet help to stabilize the microbiome of a newborn or infant.
inne® Microbiome Balance
**Contains<0.5 g sugar per 100 g
Breast milk is not only a source of nutrition, but also a means of communication between mother and child. It contains so-called prebiotics, which are substances that specifically promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestine – above all the genus bifidobacteria. These bacteria strengthen the intestinal mucosa, train the immune system and protect against pathogens.
Even “only” partially breastfed children benefit from this support. If breastfeeding is not possible, there are now infant formulas that contain probiotic or prebiotic additives to gently support the microbiome.
The exciting time of complementary foods begins around the sixth month of life, as the child’s microbiome is now being restructured again. New foods mean new bacteria.
A varied, colorful diet with vegetables, fruit, whole grain products and healthy fats promotes a diverse intestinal flora. This diversity is considered to be particularly protective. It strengthens the immune system and reduces the risk of intolerances or allergies later on.
Our tip: The more natural and less processed, the better. A home-cooked vegetable mash or pureed lentils promote good gut bacteria more than ready-made jars with added sugar.
Antibiotics can save lives, but they also have a profound effect on a child’s microbiome. They do not distinguish between “good” and “bad” bacteria and therefore disrupt the finely tuned balance in the gut. After antibiotic therapy, it can take weeks or even months for the bacterial diversity to recover. As parents, you can specifically support your little one’s gut during this time:
What children eat (and what they don’t eat) in the first 1000 days shapes their long-term relationship with food and also the composition of their intestinal flora. A balanced, high-fiber diet lays the foundation for a stable immune system, fewer infections, better nutrient absorption and healthy weight development.
Parents can achieve a lot here, without perfectionism, but with small, conscious steps. These include above all
This not only helps to grow a healthy gut, but also a healthy relationship with food.
Your children’s gut is a real powerhouse: it supports their immune system, mood and well-being. Find out how nutrition and everyday life promote intestinal health.
Why daycare children get sick so often – and how a strong microbiome helps ward off infections. Nutritional tips for robust gut health during winter.