baby & toddler foods with prebiotics & probiotics
Beech-Nut is proud to offer a growing assortment of baby & toddler foods with prebiotics & probiotics.
Referred to as “gut bugs,” “healthy bacteria” and “gut microbes,” probiotics are, put simply, the healthy bacteria in your gut. These microorganisms can be consumed via food, drinks and supplements.
Prebiotics are the “food” that feed probiotics! They are a form of fiber that can be found naturally in plants, such as sunchokes & chicory root. For probiotics to live their best bacterial life, they have to eat good food, prebiotics.
Get Cultured
Did you know that some scientists consider our microbiomes (tiny organisms that live in our digestive systems and regulate all sorts of bodily functions) our “newest discovered organ”? Beech-Nut strives to develop new products that reflect scientific studies on the forefront of infant & toddler nutrition.
We asked Melissa Rifkin, Registered Dietitian, to summarize the benefits of & explain the differences between prebiotics vs. probiotics.
At what age can babies start eating prebiotics and probiotics?
Prebiotics and probiotics can be introduced in solid foods starting around 6 months. In fact, new studies show that prebiotics & probiotics are present in the bellies of newborns and are transferred, additionally, through breastmilk. Check with your pediatrician if you have questions about when is best to introduce these nutrients as supplements or within foods.
What are some natural sources of prebiotics and probiotics suitable for babies?
Natural sources of probiotics for babies include yogurt and fermented foods when introduced into a baby’s diet around the age of 6 months. As for prebiotics, they are found in garlic, onions, leeks, apples, bananas, chicory root and other veggies.