We change throughout our lives, and so does the microbiome, a living ecosystem that includes the beneficial bacteria that each of us inhabits and inhabits.
The big bacterial bang
Moms are giving their kids a huge gift: friendly bacteria. Babies born through the birth canal are believed to acquire a layer of lactobacilli. Then, with breastfeeding, skin-to-skin contact, and the baby's interaction with the natural environment, the development of the microbiome is further accelerated.
These friendly bacteria will form part of the microbiome, interacting with the baby's developing immune and digestive systems.
Life-Space Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Probiotics provides new and expecting mothers with a variety of beneficial bacteria.
In addition to supporting healthy levels of beneficial gut bacteria during this important busy time, these probiotic strains can also help maintain a healthy vaginal flora.
Baby steps
With the introduction of solid foods at about six months, the diversity of your child's microbiome begins to grow at an alarming rate.
These early years are all about encouraging bacterial diversity, although it may take a while for new parents to forget the idea that all bacteria are harmful.
Yes, basic hygiene is important, but don't overdo it. Excessive use of antibacterial products on household surfaces reduces the range of germs your child is exposed to. Try using natural household cleaners.
Daycare centers and playgroups can seem rogue at times, but regular contact with other kids is critical. Aside from the occasional bad cold, your child is getting a top-notch bacterial diversity education.
You can also help encourage diversity by using Life-Space Baby Probiotic Powder early on. It contains ten beneficial bacteria, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus HN001, which may help maintain immune health and support the gut microbiome and healthy gut function.
Finding your feet
By age 3, your child's microbiome has formed a more stable composition, but exposure to a variety of bacteria is still important.
Encourage your child to play outside regularly and let them play in the dirt. Feed them plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and include fiber and prebiotic foods in their diet. Consider using household pets to increase bacterial diversity. (Of course, close-contact pets like dogs or cats are more resistant to bacteria than goldfish.)
Likewise, probiotic supplements can help. Life-Space Kids' Probiotic Powder contains 15 types of beneficial bacteria specially formulated to support a healthy microbiome in children ages 3 to 12.
Hitting your stride
A rich and varied diet of fresh foods is an important part of promoting a healthy microbiome, and the good eating habits you teach your children will carry them through adulthood.
Be sure to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, healthy whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds, and high-quality natural yogurt.
A healthy diet should contain plenty of fiber, which nourishes our friendly bacteria.
As a bonus, add some fermented foods like lightly pickled vegetables or kefir.
Adults in your household can also support their microbiome health with Life-Space Broad Spectrum Probiotics, which contain 15 types of beneficial bacteria.
Keeping up the pace
In our later years, the bacterial balance of the microbiome begins to change, and as we pass 60, bacterial diversity naturally decreases.
Eating a balanced diet and exercising regularly should be our top priorities in life, especially as we age. In addition to fitness benefits, exercise has positive effects on gut bacteria and immune system health.
If you have older relatives, you can help them stay active by involving them in your family activities.
To further complement your bacterial diversity, Life-Space Probiotics for 60+ years contains a variety of beneficial bacteria to support general gut health and normal, healthy bowel movements.
Remember, a rich and diverse microbiome can support your daily health and a healthy immune system, no matter what stage of life you are in.
Always read labels. Please follow the instructions for use. Supplements should not replace a balanced diet.