The importance of gut health for children

Supporting happy tummies and healthy kids with nature’s help

As parents, we’re always looking for ways to support our children’s health—whether it’s ensuring they get enough sleep, encouraging them to eat their greens, or keeping up with active play. But one area that’s often overlooked is gut health, even though it plays a huge role in how our tamariki grow, feel, and thrive every day.

Why gut health matters

Your child’s gut does more than just digest food. It’s home to trillions of bacteria—known as the gut microbiome—that help support immunity, nutrient absorption, energy levels, and even mood and brain function. In fact, over 70% of the immune system lives in the gut, which means a happy digestive system is key to helping little bodies stay resilient against bugs and seasonal sniffles.

Signs your child’s gut may need support

Because gut health is connected to so many areas of wellbeing, imbalances can show up in surprising ways. You might notice:

• Tummy aches, bloating or irregular bowel movements
• Ongoing food sensitivities or fussiness with eating
• Frequent colds or slow recovery from illness
• Skin issues like rashes or dry skin
• Trouble concentrating or low energy

Nurturing gut health naturally

The good news is, there’s plenty you can do to help build a healthy gut from a young age:

1. Whole, colourful foods

Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and fermented foods like unsweetened yoghurt are rich in fibre and natural prebiotics that feed the good bacteria in the gut. Encourage your child to “eat a rainbow” every day!

2. Less sugar, more real food

Processed foods and added sugars can upset the delicate balance of the microbiome. Try to keep treats occasional and focus on simple, nourishing meals as often as possible.

3. Hydration and movement

Water helps the digestive system run smoothly, while regular movement and outdoor play support both physical and mental wellbeing—including a healthier gut.

4. Herbal support when needed

Sometimes, little digestive systems need extra care—especially during times of stress, illness, or changes in routine. Gentle herbal remedies can help soothe the gut and support healthy digestion.

Everything little gut microbiomes need - in just one teaspoon a day.

One good option to support your child’s gut health is with our Children’s GutBiome Builder - it’s a powerhouse blend of probiotics, prebiotics, postbiotics, and 11 organic berries—full of vitamins, minerals, fibre, flavonoids, and polyphenols.

This all-in-one powdered formula works with your child’s unique microbiome to:

• Increase the number and diversity of beneficial bacteria
• Crowd out harmful bacteria
• Strengthen the integrity of the gut lining
  
  

A strong gut wall and a thriving microbiome help digestion run smoothly, support nutrient absorption and toxin elimination, and lay the foundation for robust immune health—remember, around 70% of immune cells are in the gut! It also supports dry skin conditions and that all-important gut/brain connection for good vibes and better focus.

Unlike traditional probiotics, the Bio-az Synbiotics in this formula are scientifically researched to survive the digestive journey and arrive in the bowel ready to work. These clever Bacillus subtilis bacteria come with their own food source: a synergistic blend of pre- and postbiotics, plus the fibre-rich Berry Essentials blend. Our proprietary Berry Essentials formula contains 11 organic berries, delivering polyphenols to support the gut lining and just the right amount of fibre for developing digestive systems.

To use: Dissolve one teaspoon into a small glass of water to create a delicious berry drink—packed full of natural support for your child’s gut, immunity and overall wellbeing.

Always read the label and use as directed. If symptoms persist, see your healthcare professional. Harker Herbals, Waipu.