The first thousand days
A newborn's gut is colonised rapidly after birth, and the mix keeps changing through weaning and into early childhood. Feeding, antibiotics and everyday contact with the world all contribute.
Practical points for parents
- Introduce a broad range of foods as advised by your paediatrician.
- Keep oral rehydration solution at home — for a small child, fluid loss matters more than the cause.
- Never give an adult dose or format to an infant.
Signs that need medical attention
In babies and toddlers, seek advice quickly for persistent vomiting, dry nappies, drowsiness, a sunken fontanelle, blood in the stool or a fever that does not settle.
