Question: Should I feed probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and cultured milk to my one-year-old?

Answer: There is increasing scientific evidence that probiotics promote healthy gut bacteria and improve digestive health. They also prevent respiratory infections. The Yakult Company recommends that children over the age of 12 months take one bottle of cultured milk drink per day. But remember that it has extremely high sugar content. You may want to dilute it with some milk, and remember to clean your little one’s teeth afterwards.

There are some types of yogurt that are specifically designed for babies, such as those from Stoneyfield Farms Yobaby and Yoplait Yo-Plus. There are also probiotics available in powder form to be sprinkled on food, and in some milk formulas. Prebiotics are also important for a healthy digestive system. These can be found in bananas, onions, leeks and asparagus.