I went through a huge probiotic fascination when they first came out. The idea of “friendly bacteria” intrigued me; to an untrained mind, it seemed like a huge contradiction - after all we’re taught to zap bacteria with disinfectant. You didn’t need to explain the importance of digestive heath to me though, I’ve suffered from IBS since early childhood. I had to do the mad rushes home from teenage house-parties, had the pre-exam nerves and felt my stomach respond to changes in weather. It’s a horrible condition to have to manage - anything that helps gets a huge thumbs up from me.

So, I’d buy tons of them and down the little pots everyday. Did I notice a difference to my health? Nope. Do I think they serve some merit? Definitely - there’s simply too much science to argue with. To be fair, some of them taste absolutely lovely too. The Flora Pro-Activ & Strawberry Actimels are to-die-for.

But what about our tiny people? Getting fruit & vegetables into their diet is hard enough!

I give you Bio-Kult Infantis! This is a unique multi-strain probiotic formula which has been specially designed for infants, toddlers and young children.

Ar 4 months old, Heidi appears to be pretty healthy in this regard. She suffered from colic in her first few weeks, but is now a pro at winding herself. Whether it’s through tummy-time or moon-crawling backwards across the carpet, she expels wind through burping or farting with utter finesse. She’ll produce wet and dirty nappies like clockwork too so I’ve no reason to believe she has any allergies either.

Dexter, however, regularly gets illnesses and is forever sneezing. We have some serious concerns about the nutritional value of his diet, and whether he’s eating enough throughout the day. We’ve tried supplements before but don’t find them easy to administer.

Yet, as 70% of the immune system is located in the gut, a balanced gut flora is essential to stimulate the immune system for improved health and wellbeing. Although we can’t see any physical problems with Heidi, anything we can do to prevent any occurring, is just as important. Anything we can get past a taste-test from Dexter, will also have this mummy skipping for joy.

As well as being used daily to maintain a healthy gut flora, Bio-Kult Infantis could also naturally help to avoid conditions such as colic, diarrhoea and allergies including eczema, hay fever and food intolerances.

What’s in it?

• 7 strains of live probiotic bacteria including two of the most predominant species found in an infant’s gut. Research has already shown how these strains help to reduce diarrhoea in gastroenteritis, improve constipation and improve symptoms of eczema
• High levels of Omega 3 believed to contribute to early brain development and cognitive function, along with immune support
• Vitamin D₃: ‘the sunshine vitamin’ that helps to contribute to the normal function of the immune system and is needed for the normal growth and development of bones in children.
• Preplex Prebiotic: A food source for beneficial bacteria (naturally present in breast milk)

Bio-Kult Infantis comes in easy-to-use sachets which can be added to formula and solids, and can even be used when breastfeeding. It’s largely tasteless and the children were both oblivious to the fact it had been added to their Bot-Bots (Dexter, full fat milk; Heidi, stage 1 formula).

Once again, I can’t testify to its efficiency as Bio-Kult isn’t a cure, but having tried dozens of supplements with Dexter, this is the first he hasn’t noticed has been added to his food / drink.

My issue with it is purely price. At £11.95 for 16 sachets, that’s almost £25 per month*. £300 per year might not seem excessive to some, but it does to me (we can afford small luxuries as a family, but many can’t). We all want what is best for our children, but probiotic formula (whilst appreciated) isn’t an essential part of your child’s health regime. If there really are tangible health benefits associated with Bio-Kult Infantis, then please make it accessible for families of limited means. If they don’t, I’m sure it’s only a matter of time before Tesco bring out their own for one third of the price.

Bio-Kult Infantis retails for £11.95 for a box of 16 sachets and is widely available in high street retailers, independent pharmacies, health food stores and online.

For more information visit www.bio-kult.com

* Response from Bio-Kult: “We do recommend to have either ½ or 1 sachet a day, for younger children in particular we recommend ½ a sachet, this would only amount to £11.95 a month”