Effect of Probiotics in Reducing Infections and Allergies in Young Children During the Complementary Feeding Period

The Effect of Probiotics in Reducing Infections and Allergic Manifestations in Young Children During the Complementary Feeding Period

The aim of the intervention is to examine the effect of the bacterial strain BB-12, provided for 6 mo, on the prevalence of infections and allergic manifestations in small children, and how BB-12 affects the immune system, the gastrointestinal tract and the microbiota. Children are enrolled during 2 winter seasons.

Inclusion Criteria:

• 9 - 12 1/2 month at intervention start
• Start in daycare 4 +/- 2 weeks after intervention start
• Single born

Exclusion Criteria:

• Children born before 37th gestational week
• Children with a birth weight < 2500 g
• Children suffering from severe chronic illness
• Children receiving regular medication
• Children who have received antibiotics within a month before intervention start
• Children whose parents do not speak Danish