Probiotics Reduce Cold and Flu Symptoms in Children
By Gene Bruno, MS, MHS
Probiotics, or friendly bacteria, are generally known for the role they play in gut health or-thanks to yogurt commercials-immune health. Based upon new research, the role of probiotics in immune health has expanded to include reducing cold and flu symptoms in children.
In a double-blind, placebo-controlled study (Leyer et al, 2009), 326 children (3-5 years of age) received either Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, or L. acidophilus NCFM in combination with Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, or a placebo twice daily for 6 months. The results were as follows:
Statistics indicate that the common cold is prevalent amongst children. Most children have about 6 to 10 colds annually and, in families with children in school, the number of colds each child gets each year increases dramatically to 12. Furthermore, every year an average of 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu, with young children being especially at risk. Also, between 8400 and 11,700 children 2 or more years of age are hospitalized from flu complications.
In consideration of these statistics, and given the relative safety of probiotics, the use of L. acidophilus NCFM alone or in combination with B. lactis Bi-07 appears to be a good method for treating cold and flu symptoms naturally.
Reference
Leyer GJ, Li S, Mubasher ME, Reifer C, Ouwehand AC. Probiotic Effects on Cold and Influenza-Like Symptom Incidence and Duration in Children. Pediatrics 2009; 124:e172-e179.