Australian Parents Embrace Probiotics to Combat School-Year Illnesses
As the new school year begins, Australian parents are increasingly turning to probiotics as a scientifically backed strategy to reduce sick days caused by upper respiratory infections and diarrhoea by up to 67 per cent. With children facing heightened exposure to classroom germs, packed after-school schedules, and irregular sleep patterns, their immune systems come under significant strain during this period.
The Impact of Group Care on Children's Health
Recent research conducted by the Royal Children's Hospital indicates that children in group care environments experience an average of twelve viral infections annually. This frequent illness not only affects the children themselves but also places considerable pressure on households, as parents often need to take time off work to care for sick kids.
In response to this challenge, probiotics have emerged as a practical solution to help minimise illness-related disruptions. Among the products gaining popularity is BioGaia Protectis Kids Chewable Tablets with Vitamin D, available at major retailers nationwide including Coles and Chemist Warehouse.
Why Children Are Particularly Vulnerable
Children's developing immune systems and regular exposure to group settings make them more susceptible to illnesses compared to adults. Those under five years old are especially prone, as their bodies are still learning to combat common pathogens. Current health guidelines recommend that children with symptoms like vomiting or diarrhoea remain at home for at least forty-eight hours, even if they otherwise appear well.
"Maintaining healthy digestive systems in children is crucial for keeping the entire household running smoothly," explains Jess Pinal, a mother of two. "I've been focusing more on supporting my kids' gut and immune health, which is why I've incorporated BioGaia into our routine."
The Science Behind Probiotic Effectiveness
BioGaia's product range, which has sold millions of units globally, features the patented Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938 strain. This ingredient has been validated through more than 290 clinical studies, establishing it as one of the most extensively researched probiotics available. The once-daily, non-GMO tablets come in child-friendly orange or strawberry flavours and deliver 100 million live probiotic bacteria to support gut balance.
The formulation is designed for children aged three years and older, is easy to digest, and is free from lactose, milk protein, and gluten. It can be taken with or without food at any time of day. Studies have demonstrated that this probiotic can reduce sick days from upper respiratory infections by up to 67 per cent and sick days from diarrhoea by up to 67 per cent.
Additional Benefits of Vitamin D Supplementation
The inclusion of vitamin D in these tablets provides further immune support by helping regulate innate immunity and influence adaptive immune responses, thereby reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses. "Supports healthy bone development and the Vitamin D helps support immune health with just one chewable tablet daily in a yummy orange flavour that they will love," says Joey Banaria, a mother of five.
The Growing Importance of Gut Health
Probiotics consist of live microorganisms that promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which scientists increasingly associate with digestion, immunity, and overall wellbeing. These beneficial bacteria aid children in absorbing nutrients from food, maintaining regular bowel movements, and protecting the gut lining. Given that approximately 70 per cent of the immune system resides in the gut, more parents are prioritising gut health maintenance.
Research indicates that probiotics can decrease the frequency and duration of illnesses, reduce gut inflammation, and enhance immunity in growing children. This has contributed to probiotics becoming one of the fastest-growing wellness categories worldwide, driven by heightened awareness of the gut's role in overall health.
Expert Insights and Product Availability
"Probiotics are increasingly becoming the hero in the background for back-to-school routines," states Gianfranco Grampone, chief scientific officer at BioGaia. "The Protectis Vitamin D tablets offer a simple and effective way for busy parents to support their child's immune and digestive health, enjoy fewer days off work, and have happy, healthy kids."
BioGaia Protectis Kids Chewable Tablets with Vitamin D are priced at $41.39 for the orange flavour and $38.99 for strawberry, available in the baby aisle at Chemist Warehouse, Coles, and most major pharmacies across Australia, including Terry White Chemmart. Consumers are advised to always read the label and follow the directions for use.
BioGaia has been a global leader in probiotic research and development for over thirty-five years, with clinically researched products supporting health and wellbeing across all life stages.
*Reference: Gutiérrez-Castrellón P et al. Pediatrics 2014;133:904-909. Funded by BioGaia AB Stockholm, Sweden.
