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While it may seem counterintuitive, allowing your children to play outside and cover themselves in dirt and mud can have health benefits. If children are exposed to naturally-occurring bacteria and germs from a young age, they may develop stronger immune systems and have a healthier variety of digestive-system bacteria. While children should still bathe regularly, you don't need to be overly concerned with keeping them germ-free at all times. To cultivate healthy bacteria in your children's guts, also avoid washing their hands with antibacterial soap, which can kill off healthy bacteria as well as unhealthy germs. If children have a deficit of healthy gut bacteria, they may exhibit one or more of the following signs: excessive gas, diarrhea, or nausea. In more serious cases of imbalanced gut bacteria, children may develop irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease, and may experience serious weight loss, bloating, abdominal pain, or even blood in the stool. While changing your child's diet and increasing their probiotic consumption can improve their gut health, these symptoms can occur for reasons unrelated to gut health. If dietary modification doesn't clear up the symptoms, schedule an appointment with your child's doctor. Whether or not you've noticed signs and symptoms of imbalanced gut bacteria levels, it's a good idea to ask your child's doctor about ways you can promote balanced levels of gut bacteria. Ask if they recommend specific dietary changes (including ones you may not have considered), and ask their opinion on probiotic supplements for children. If your children are experiencing uncommon problems with their gut health, the pediatrician may provide a referral to a nutritionist or a gastroenterologist.
Let kids play outside and get dirty. Watch for the signs of poor gut health. Consult your children's pediatrician about gut bacteria.