BIOGAIA—Protectis BABY Probiotic Drops
This contains Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, a well-studied strain for infants. It has been studied for infant colic, constipation, and regurgitation, which are common infant concerns I see in my practice. I like that it comes in a liquid that can be mixed into a formula, placed directly into the baby’s mouth, or on mom’s nipple before a feed. It also comes with an option for added vitamin D, which is a convenient addition, so extra vitamin D does not need to be given to the baby (fewer things to remember for parents!). biogaia.com
https://www.biogaia.com/products/protectis-baby-drops
METAGENICS—UltraFlora Baby Probiotic
This contains Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis (BB-12), two well-studied probiotic strains for infants. LGG and BB-12 have been studied for infant diarrhea, antibiotic-associated diarrhea, colic, cow’s milk protein allergy, and general digestive/immune support. It also comes in liquid form, which makes it easy to administer. metagenicscanada.com
https://www.metagenicscanada.com/metakids-baby-probiotic
GENESTRA—HMF Baby Line
The HMF Baby line contains four products: HMF Baby B, HMF Baby F, HMF Baby Immune, and HMF Baby Drops. I have also used HMF Natogen. Genestra offers different probiotic combinations tailored to common infant needs. Besides the drops, the rest of the products come as powders that can be mixed into bottles of formula or breast milk or soft food. I like this line because it allows some flexibility in matching the right option to a baby’s age, feeding style, and health history. genestra.ca
https://www.atriumpro.ca/catalogsearch/result/?q=hmf+baby
ANTIBIOTIC DOS & DON'TS
DO:
- Ask questions before starting an antibiotic.Ask what the infection is, whether an antibiotic is truly needed, which one is being prescribed, and for how long.
- Clarify whether it’s viral or bacterial.Antibiotics don’t treat viruses like colds and most flus. Knowing the difference helps you feel confident about the plan.
- Give the right dose at the right time.Use a proper syringe or measuring cup (not a kitchen spoon), and follow the timing instructions as closely as you can.
- Finish the prescribed course unless your prescriber advises otherwise.Stopping early on your own can increase the risk of the infection coming back or becoming harder to treat.
- Support your child’s gut during and after antibiotics.Offer simple, easy-to-digest whole foods and, when appropriate, fermented foods or probiotics recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Pressure your healthcare provider for antibiotics “just in case." If they recommend watchful waiting, it’s usually because they believe your child can recover without them.
- Use leftover antibiotics or someone else’s prescription.The type, dose, and duration need to match your child and this infection.
- Skip doses or double up without guidance.If you miss a dose, call your pharmacy or provider for advice on how to get back on track.
- Ignore side effects.New rashes, breathing changes, severe diarrhea, or unusual behaviour deserve prompt medical attention.
- Forget to follow up.If your child isn’t improving as expected—or you’re worried at any point—reach back out to your healthcare provider.
DON’T:
