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After reading dozens of Hiya probiotic reviews, I knew I had to test these kids’ chewable probiotics myself! The non-GMO, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free brand seems very promising for the health of my family.
But are they really worth the hype? What is the Hiya Kids Daily Probiotic made of? Do they offer one of the best sugar-free probiotics for kids?
Here’s everything you need to know about Hiya and their kid’s daily probiotics.
My Full Review of Hiya’s Kids Probiotics
I think we can all agree on one thing: Finding healthy, safe, and child-friendly probiotics is not an easy feat.
If you’re a loyal reader, you already know that I’m all about non-GMO, non-toxic, transparent, and healthy choices.
And let me tell you, this lifestyle is not as easy as it sounds. Especially when it comes to vitamins and probiotics for my children.
I mean, why do they have to load them up with added sugar, weird dyes, and gummy junk?
I don’t want my kiddos’ teeth battling cavities just because they’re trying to get their daily dose of good bacteria.
Refined sugar is associated with an increased risk for obesity, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and dental issues. Plus, some of the most well-known kid’s probiotics contain allergens such as dairy, egg, or soy.
Sometimes, it feels like you need a PhD to decipher complicated ingredients. I want something straightforward, clean, and reliable for my kids.
Enter: This sugar free probiotic that my kids adore.
But hey, here’s the silver lining – after a bit of a struggle, I stumbled upon Hiya.
One delicious (yes, delicious!) chewable a day with 10 billion live cultures from multiple strains that have been clinically studied to support kids.
Also, this probiotic for kids is vegan, gluten-free, allergy-free, nut-free, and dairy-free.
Last but not least, the chewable tablets come with a refillable glass bottle that kids decorate with stickers, followed by eco-friendly refills.
So, in this Hiya probiotic review, we’ll find out if this product really aligns with my non-negotiables. But first, let’s talk about kid’s probiotics and why they are so important in the first place.
What are probiotics anyway?
Probiotics are live microorganisms, primarily bacteria and yeast, that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.
These microorganisms are often referred to as “good” or “friendly” bacteria because of their positive effects on the body.
Particularly the digestive system.
The human body is home to trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, both beneficial and harmful.
Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance in the microbial community, promoting the dominance of beneficial bacteria.
Why are probiotics important for kids?
Gut Health & Digestion
Probiotics play a crucial role in supporting kids’ gut health and digestion.
The gastrointestinal tract is home to a complex ecosystem of microorganisms, and maintaining a balance between beneficial and harmful bacteria is essential for proper digestion.
Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains, help regulate this microbial balance. They contribute to the breakdown of food, and nutrient absorption, and can assist in the prevention of digestive issues.
Immune Health Support
The immune system development in children is a dynamic process, and probiotics play a role in supporting its proper functioning.
Probiotic strains have been studied for their immunomodulatory effects.
They can help regulate the immune response, enhancing the body’s ability to defend against infections and illnesses.
For kids whose immune systems are still maturing, incorporating probiotics into their diet may contribute to a more robust and balanced immune system.
Allergy Prevention & Regulation
Probiotics have been explored for their potential in preventing and managing allergies in children.
Studies suggest that specific strains may have a positive impact on allergic responses.
For instance, they may help alleviate symptoms like sneezing, itchy nose, and swollen eyes. By modulating the immune system and promoting a healthy gut environment, probiotics may contribute to reducing the risk and severity of allergic reactions in kids.
Support During Antibiotic Treatment
Kids often undergo antibiotic treatments for various infections, which can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria.
Probiotics can be particularly beneficial during and after antibiotic courses. They help replenish the beneficial bacteria that may be affected by antibiotics, preventing issues like antibiotic-associated diarrhea.
Including probiotics in a child’s routine alongside antibiotic treatments can help support healthy poos and mitigate potential side effects.
May Help With Mental Health & Mood Regulation
Research suggests a connection between gut health and mental well-being, commonly referred to as the gut-brain axis.
Probiotics may play a role in supporting children’s mental health by influencing the communication between the gut and the brain.
While the field is still evolving, some studies propose that a balanced gut microbiome may positively impact mood and behavior in children.
What are the signs that kids need probiotics?
Do your kids really need probiotics? Before adding one of the best probiotics for kids to your cart, let’s have a look at the most common signs.
Recent Antibiotic Use
If your child has recently taken antibiotics, their delicate gut balance may be disrupted.
Antibiotics indiscriminately wipe out both harmful and beneficial bacteria, potentially leading to digestive issues.
Probiotics can step in to replenish the beneficial bacteria, aiding the body in returning to normal more swiftly after antibiotic use.
Tummy Troubles
Tummy troubles can be a concern, especially if your child experiences discomfort or goes beyond three days without a bowel movement.
While probiotics won’t uncover the root cause of constipation, they can play a supportive role in promoting bowel regularity when used alongside a balanced diet and proper hydration.
Kids blessed with stellar digestive health might manage well on their own, but those facing challenges like bloating or general gut issues might benefit from a probiotic boost.
Always consult with your child’s pediatrician, especially if they have conditions impacting the intestine or digestive tract, such as IBS or IBD.
History Of Allergies Or Sensitivities
Children with a history of allergies or food sensitivities may benefit from probiotics.
Some research suggests that probiotics may play a role in modulating the immune system and reducing the risk of allergic reactions.
If your child has a tendency towards allergies or sensitivities, exploring probiotic supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare professional could be considered.
Compromised Immune Function
Kids with weakened immune systems or a history of frequent infections may benefit from probiotics.
Kids probiotics have been studied for their immune-modulating effects, potentially enhancing the body’s defense mechanisms.
If your child struggles with recurrent infections, consulting with a healthcare provider about the potential role of probiotics in immune support is advisable.
Now, let’s get into our Hiya probiotic review!
Meet Hiya
Hiya was founded by two dads, Darren Litt, and Adam Gillman who were looking to find the perfect probiotics and vitamins for their own families.
Frustrated with the lack of suitable options in the market, they decided to take matters into their own hands.
For three years, they consulted experts ranging from pediatricians to nutritionists, scientists, and fellow parents to create a product that met their high standards.
The result? Hiya, the pediatrician-formulated, super-powered children’s vitamin brand founded in 2020 with a mission to provide kids with the goodness they need without any compromises.
What sets Hiya apart is its dedication to purity.
The founders went the extra mile to ensure that Hiya products are free from added sugar, dyes, and all the gummy junk that often fills children’s vitamins.
This kids’ chewable probiotic is also vegan, gluten-free, allergy-free, nut-free, and dairy-free!
Hiya takes freshness and eco-friendliness seriously. When you first order from them, you’ll receive a refillable glass bottle which you can then restock with fresh refills. This way, you won’t run out of your kid’s sugar-free probiotics.
Also, Hiya recently introduced the Kids Bedtime Essentials.
Designed to support children’s sleep health, this nightly chewable is a powerhouse of restorative essentials.
It promotes calmness, focus, brain health, and a good night’s sleep – all without the use of melatonin or added sugar, so it’s non-habit forming.
What Are The Benefits Of Hiya Probiotics For Kids?
Hiya Probiotics Are Sugar-Free
Let’s talk about sugar, a common culprit in kids’ supplements. One of my favorite things about Hiya is its commitment to zero added sugar.
It’s no secret that getting kids to take their probiotics can be a challenge, especially when most options are loaded with the stuff.
Too much sugar is bad for children’s health as it can lead to the build-up of harmful fat on the inside that we cannot see.
Hiya takes a different route by using monk fruit extract, a superfruit sweeter than sugar but without the blood sugar spike.
Pair that with mannitol, a natural sweetener found in strawberries and pumpkins, and you have a winning combination that kids love without compromising their gut health.
My children remind me every single morning “Mommy, can we please have our vitamin candyyyyyy????” with a huge smile on their face. It’s glorious.
Hiya Has 10 Billion Live Cultures
You’ve probably seen the term CFUs (Colony Forming Units) on probiotics a million times before. But you might not fully grasp its significance or what it really means.
Think of CFUs as the power behind the probiotic punch – the number of active microorganisms present in a supplement.
Hiya doesn’t play around with this. Their Kids Daily Probiotic boasts a substantial 10 billion live cultures, a number that surpasses many kids’ probiotic options on the market.
But what does it mean for your child’s health?
This impressive count indicates the potency of the probiotic, with Hiya’s formula carefully crafted for optimal absorption.
It’s not just about the quantity, though – the evolving strains in Hiya’s blend ensure that the probiotic actives remain robust, actively helping to support your child’s immune system.
Hiya Is Great For Picky Eaters
Hiya has managed to create a formula that not only caters to your child’s health needs but also appeals to their taste buds.
No more battles over bitter supplements or unpalatable mixtures.
Hiya’s probiotics come with a flavor profile that kids genuinely love, making the daily routine a breeze for both parents and their little ones.
The beauty of Hiya’s solution lies in its simplicity – a once-a-day routine that delivers a powerful punch of goodness.
The expertly optimized blend is designed to restore the natural balance of good bacteria in your child’s digestive system without any gluten or common allergens.
This balance is key for overall health, especially when faced with the challenges of picky eating habits, allergies, or sniffles.
The Hiya Probiotic Is Vegan, Gluten-Free & Allergy-Free
Hiya understands the struggles of parents with allergy concerns.
In fact, studies suggest that 0.5–6% of the global population may have gluten sensitivity.
Plus, more than a quarter of U.S. adults and children have at least one allergy! That’s where Hiya’s daily allergy-free and vegan probiotics supplements come in.
Free from ingredients such as gluten, soy, and dairy, Hiya ensures that kids with sensitivities can still enjoy the benefits of a daily probiotic without compromising their health.
Hiya Is Eco-Conscious
I personally love Hiya because, unlike most probiotics for kids, they actually take sustainability into consideration.
The use of a refillable glass bottle, no-plastic refill pouches, and a pediatrician-recommended schedule speaks volumes about Hiya’s commitment to holistic wellness.
Now, let’s jump into the ingredients of Hiya probiotics for kids.
Hiya Probiotic Ingredients, Explained
Hiya is made with 4 key nutrients: Lactobacillus rhamnosus (GG), Lactobacillus paracasei (UALpc-04™), Bacillus lactis (Bl-04®), and Larch Tree Fiber.
Don’t let the complex names confuse you, I’ll try to explain their benefits as simply as I can.
Lactobacillus Rhamnosus (GG):
This strain is a powerhouse when it comes to supporting childhood immune systems, gut health, and digestion.
Clinical research, suggests that long-term supplementation of L. rhamnosus GG can positively influence the microbiota composition, prevent antibiotic-associated changes, and provide lasting protection against certain infections.
Lactobacillus Paracasei (UALpc-04™):
Like many probiotic strains, Lactobacillus paracasei is believed to contribute to the maintenance of a healthy balance of microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract.
It may help support digestive function and overall gut health.
Research suggests that Lactobacillus paracasei may have immunomodulatory effects, meaning it can influence and regulate the immune system. This can be beneficial for supporting the body’s defense mechanisms.
Also, studied in children ages 6-13, this strain shows promise in regulating allergies.
According to research, it contributes to a “significant improvement in individual symptoms of sneezing, itchy nose, and swollen eyes,” offering relief for allergic responses in kids.
Bacillus Lactis (Bl-04®):
Bacillus lactis (Bl-04®) is classified as a probiotic, believed to support gastrointestinal health by promoting a balance of beneficial microorganisms in the gut. Maintaining this microbial balance is crucial for digestive function and overall gut well-being.
Probiotics, including Bacillus lactis, have been studied for their potential to modulate the immune system. Research suggests that certain strains may enhance the body’s immune response, contributing to overall immune system health.
Some studies also suggest that Bacillus lactis may have the ability to compete with and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the gut.
Larch Tree Fiber:
Larch tree fiber refers to the dietary fiber derived from the wood or bark of the larch tree (Larix species).
The primary component of larch tree fiber is arabinogalactan, a type of polysaccharide that belongs to the group of dietary fibers known as hemicelluloses.
The primary component of larch tree fiber is arabinogalactan which is considered a prebiotic, meaning it serves as a source of nourishment for beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Some research suggests that arabinogalactan from larch trees may have immunomodulatory effects, helping to modulate and support the immune system.
It is believed to stimulate certain immune cells, promoting a robust immune response.
At What Age Can You Take Hiya Probiotics?
The Hiya probiotic is designed for kids 2+. However, it’s important to always consult your pediatrician first in order to ensure that a probiotic is right for your kids.
My Personal Review Of The Hiya Daily Probiotic:
I’ll admit, getting my kids to actually take probiotics used to be a bit of a pain in the butt.
They are identical twin boys (our third is too young to take them quite yet) and they deal with sensitive stomachs here and there. Probiotics really help them but…
My little twin critics weren’t having it.
Usually, the taste was a bit off due to the taste and non-chewable vitamins are evidently very hard to swallow. Cue the early morning battles, the coaxing, and the failed attempts at convincing them it’s for their own good.
The Hiya kids’ chewable probiotic, however, made things a whole lot easier.
What stood out the most was how much my kids loved the taste (and I snuck one or two into my mouth as well because they are so delicious!).
The burst of fruity flavor is a lot similar to our favorite organic candy! So the fact that they looked forward to their daily Hiya dose made the entire process a breeze.
And let’s talk about those stickers too! The refillable glass bottle that comes with the first order became a canvas for my kids’ creativity.
Seriously, they absolutely loved personalizing their Hiya bottle with stickers.
Is Hiya Probiotic Really Worth Trying?
It’s a thumbs up from us. Hiya’s probiotics for kids are definitely worth a try!
The benefits are clear – it’s non-GMO, vegan, and completely free from added sugars, weird dyes, and gummy junk.
With a robust formula containing 10 billion CFUs and three clinically researched strains, Hiya actively supports gut health, digestion, and immune function in kids.
The tasty, chewable tablets ensure that getting these essential probiotics into your child’s routine is a breeze. I also love that the Hiya daily probiotic for kids comes in refillable glass bottles.
So, if you’re on the lookout for a kid-friendly probiotic that aligns with your values and delivers on its promises, Hiya is a great option.
If you live in the US or Southern Canada, visit hiyahealth.com to find out more about the brand, and the Kids Daily Probiotic (50% off first order)!
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