If your teen is struggling with digestive or immune issues, probiotics may help. They can also be helpful for balancing hormones, producing B vitamins, and reducing inflammation.

When selecting a probiotic for teens for your teen, it’s important to choose a product with strains that have been proven to be effective for their specific needs. For example, if they have eczema or dermatitis, choose a probiotic that contains the bacteria that will work best to soothe their skin and reduce the itchiness.

Some kids are more prone to stomach bugs and other gastrointestinal problems than others, so using a probiotic supplement can help them avoid getting sick. Studies have shown that probiotics can reduce the duration of a stomach bug, or even prevent it altogether in some cases.

Probiotics 101: A Guide for Teenagers’ Digestive Health

They can also help your teen fight off colds and other infections. Research has also found that children who take probiotic supplements while undergoing antibiotic treatment are less likely to experience side effects, like ear infections or gastrointestinal issues.

The right kids’ probiotic will support their digestion and immunity, contain only non-GMO ingredients and be manufactured in a safe facility. They’re also available in a variety of forms, such as powders, capsules and tablets.

Some probiotics are shelf stable, so you don’t need to worry about them going bad, but it’s still a good idea to keep them in the fridge. It’s also a good idea to look for probiotics that are shipped cold, as this will ensure that they arrive at your home in top condition and ready for use.