Do Probiotics Help Kids with Colds? Unpacking the Evidence

October 19, 2025 •

3 min read

With children experiencing between 8 and 12 colds per year on average, many parents wonder if there is an effective way to minimize these frequent illnesses. Research indicates a promising connection between a child's gut microbiota and their immune function, leading to the central question: Do probiotics help kids with colds? Studies suggest they can, showing a reduction in the incidence, duration, and severity of upper respiratory tract infections.

Quick Summary

Probiotics, beneficial live microorganisms, can support a child's immune health by influencing the gut-associated lymphoid tissue. Evidence from clinical trials shows that regular probiotic supplementation may reduce the incidence and duration of colds, decrease the need for antibiotics, and lessen school absences related to illness. Specific strains and consistent use appear to be key for achieving these positive outcomes.

Key Points

Probiotics reduce incidence and duration: Clinical trials show that certain probiotics can decrease the frequency and shorten the length of a child's cold.
Gut health equals immune health: Approximately 70% of the body's immune system resides in the gut, making a balanced microbiome critical for fighting off infections like colds.
Less need for antibiotics: Probiotic supplementation has been linked to a significant reduction in antibiotic use for respiratory infections in children.
Strain-specific benefits: The effectiveness of probiotics for colds depends on specific, well-researched strains, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis.
Safe and well-tolerated: Probiotics are generally considered safe for healthy children, with mild gastrointestinal side effects being uncommon and temporary.
Best for prevention: The strongest evidence points to probiotics being most effective at preventing upper respiratory infections rather than treating symptoms once they have started.

The Gut-Immune Connection

Approximately 70% of the body's immune system resides in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) within the intestinal lining. The trillions of microorganisms in the gut microbiota are vital for immune system development and regulation, helping the body recognize harmful substances. A healthy gut flora contributes to a stronger immune system, while imbalances can weaken a child's ability to fight infections. Probiotics introduce beneficial bacteria to help restore this balance and enhance defenses against respiratory viruses.

Scientific Evidence on Probiotics and Kids' Colds

Research, including systematic reviews and clinical trials, supports using probiotics for children's respiratory health. Studies have shown:

Reduced Incidence and Duration: Probiotic supplementation has been linked to a decrease in how often children get cold-like symptoms and how long those symptoms last. One study noted that a combination of Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bi-07 was particularly effective.
Decreased Antibiotic Use: Several studies indicate that children taking probiotics for respiratory infections receive fewer antibiotic prescriptions. This is important for reducing antibiotic resistance and protecting the gut microbiome.
Fewer Missed School Days: The reduction in illness severity also means fewer days missed from school or daycare.

How Probiotics Help with Kids' Respiratory Infections

Probiotics help combat respiratory infections through several mechanisms:

Immune System Enhancement: They stimulate immune cells in the GALT, improving the body's response to viruses. Probiotics can boost the production of protective antibodies like IgA.
Pathogen Competition: Beneficial bacteria compete with harmful pathogens in the gut for resources and space, hindering their growth. Some probiotics also produce substances that kill harmful microbes.
Strengthening the Gut Barrier: Probiotics help maintain the integrity of the gut lining, a critical barrier that prevents pathogens from entering the bloodstream.

Practical Ways to Give Kids Probiotics

Probiotics can come from foods or supplements. While food sources are often preferred, supplements can be useful, especially after antibiotics or during frequent illness.

Probiotic Food Sources:

Yogurt and kefir with live active cultures.
Fermented vegetables like sauerkraut.
Kombucha and miso soup can also be options.

Probiotic Supplements:

Available for children in various forms like drops, powders, and chewables.
Look for strains known for immune support such as Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07, and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG.
Choose reputable brands specifying the strain and CFU count. Always consult a pediatrician before starting new supplements.

Comparison of Common Probiotic Strains for Kids


Probiotic Strain	Benefits for Colds	Other Health Benefits	Formats for Kids	Notes
Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG	Reduced risk and duration of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs).	Supports gut infections, manages diarrhea, aids eczema management.	Powders, chewables.	Well- nghiên cứu, often found in Culturelle Kids products.
Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM & Bifidobacterium lactis Bi-07	Significantly reduced incidence of fever, cough, and rhinorrhea.	General digestive and immune support.	Supplements, dairy products.	Combination may offer synergistic effects.
Saccharomyces boulardii Iyo CNCM I-745	May shorten duration of infectious diarrhea, supporting overall health during illness.	Prevents and treats antibiotic-associated diarrhea.	Powder sticks.	A yeast-based probiotic, useful during and after antibiotic use.
Lactobacillus reuteri Protectis (DSM 17938)	Potential for reducing common respiratory infections.	Reduces infant colic, helps with antibiotic-associated diarrhea.	Baby drops, chewables.	Well-tolerated in infants and children.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests probiotics are a promising way to support children's immune health and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of colds and other upper respiratory infections. By enhancing the gut immune system, specific probiotic strains can decrease symptom incidence and duration, lower the need for antibiotics, and reduce missed school days. While effects can vary and are strain-dependent, incorporating evidence-based probiotics alongside a healthy diet and good hygiene can strengthen a child's immune system, especially in group settings like daycare. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting new supplements for children.

For more detailed information on probiotic mechanisms and pediatric health, refer to publications from authoritative sources such as PubMed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Studies have shown beneficial effects from strains like Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus GG, Lactobacillus acidophilus NCFM, and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis Bi-07. Look for supplements or foods containing these specific, clinically-backed strains.

Probiotics help by modulating the body's immune system, with a significant portion located in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue. A balanced gut microbiome strengthens the overall immune response, helping the body fight off viruses that cause respiratory infections.

Yes, giving probiotics during and after a course of antibiotics is often recommended to help replenish the beneficial gut bacteria that antibiotics can destroy. However, it's best to consult your pediatrician to ensure the timing and strain are appropriate for your child's situation.

For healthy children, high-quality probiotic supplements are generally considered safe and well-tolerated. Minor side effects like bloating or gas can occur initially as the gut adjusts. It is not recommended for premature infants or children who are critically ill or immunocompromised.

Excellent food sources of probiotics include yogurt and kefir with live active cultures, certain fermented vegetables like sauerkraut and pickles (found in the refrigerated section), and fermented soy products like tempeh and miso.

Probiotics are most effective when taken consistently as a preventative measure to build up immune defenses over time. Studies showing benefits typically involve daily supplementation over several months, especially during peak cold and flu season.

Probiotics and multivitamins serve different functions. Probiotics influence gut and immune health, while multivitamins provide essential nutrients. Both can be beneficial and can be taken together, but you should discuss your child's specific needs with their pediatrician.

While some studies have shown benefits against influenza-like symptoms, probiotics are not a substitute for the seasonal flu vaccine. The best approach for flu prevention is vaccination, along with healthy lifestyle habits that support the immune system.