Latest news with #kidshealth
Yahoo
7 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Probiotics for kids: A parent's guide to safety, information and the best options
Once a niche topic, gut health has seen a surge in interest over the past few years, and as a parent, you're likely always on the lookout for ways to support your child's health. With science surrounding the gut microbiome regularly in the news, the role that probiotics play when it comes to kids' overall health has been getting increased attention. But with varying health claims and new formulations constantly hitting the market, many parents are left wondering: Do kids really need probiotics? Are they safe? And how do you find the best probiotic for your kid? Probiotics are live microorganisms that help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut's ecosystem, known as the microbiome. This balance of gut bacteria can impact everything from digestion to immune function — it may even influence brain health and behavior, especially in kids with ADHD or autism spectrum disorder. So it's no surprise that probiotic use among American children has nearly tripled over the past two decades. As a pediatric registered dietitian, I know how important a healthy, balanced gut is for growing kids. And with nearly 1 in 4 kids struggling with ongoing tummy troubles, it's important for parents to know what treatment options are out there and which ones can truly help their little ones feel better. To get the facts about probiotics for kids, I consulted three pediatric experts, reviewed the latest research and surveyed the current probiotic market. So let's dive into when probiotics might be safe and helpful for kids, how to introduce these supplements safely and what to look for when choosing one. I also rounded up three of the best probiotic supplements for kids as a starting point to chat with your child's pediatrician about. Table of contents Are probiotics safe for kids? When probiotics may be helpful When not to give your child probiotics What to consider when choosing a probiotic for kids Best probiotic for kids FAQs Meet our experts A note on supplements The products included on this list are dietary supplements. Statements about these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Dietary supplements are not appropriate for everyone and may interact with other supplements or medications, so talk to your healthcare provider before adding a dietary supplement to your routine. Are probiotics safe for kids? The short answer: Yes. Probiotics are well-studied and generally safe for healthy children. While some kids may experience side effects like bloating, gas, nausea, constipation or a mild rash, these symptoms are usually mild and temporary. Still, this doesn't mean that probiotic supplements are always necessary or without risk. "The goal is for most children to receive probiotics naturally through foods such as yogurt, kefir and fermented vegetables. However, certain conditions affect the gut microbiome in such a way that a probiotic supplement may be helpful in reestablishing the good bacteria in the intestines," says Rinarani Sanghavi, board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist at UT Southwestern Medical Center. As with other dietary supplements, probiotics aren't evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for safety, quality or efficacy. For this reason, it's important to talk with your child's pediatrician to help choose a kids' probiotic that is well-researched and high quality. (back to top) When probiotics may be helpful When choosing probiotics for children, it's important to look for strains that have been specifically studied in pediatric populations. Because research in children is more limited than in adults, experts tend to recommend probiotics for a narrower range of conditions than what you might see promoted on social media or for adult use. Here are some reasons your pediatrician might suggest a probiotic: After antibiotics "The most useful time to consider probiotics is in the context of taking antibiotics," says Jonathan Miller, board-certified pediatrician and division chief of Primary Care at Nemours Children's Health. He adds, "When we take antibiotics to treat an infection, the antibiotics can kill both the infection and the good bacteria in the body," which is why probiotics are often used to help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria. While research is ongoing, a slightly older review published in the Cochrane Library found that the probiotic strains Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Saccharomyces boulardii were both effective for restoring healthy digestion and improving stool consistency in kids who experienced diarrhea while taking antibiotics. Gastrointestinal infections The pediatricians we spoke with noted that probiotic supplements may be helpful for kids with gastrointestinal infections. These conditions, like gastroenteritis and C. difficile, can "upset the balance of the good bacteria in a child's intestines," says Miller. In addition to helping manage digestive symptoms, a 2021 review published in the journal Nutrients found probiotics may also reduce the risk of certain digestive infections, particularly in children with certain conditions that place added stress on the gut, like cystic fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or certain types of cancer. While the findings are promising, more robust studies are needed to determine the most effective strains and dosages. Infant colic For infants with colic, board-certified pediatrician Jene Marie Tesoriero recommends talking to your pediatrician about whether a probiotic might be helpful. While research is limited, a 2021 review in Clinical and Experimental Pediatrics concluded that certain probiotic strains — particularly Limosilactobacillus reuteri — may help reduce crying in breastfed infants with infantile colic. However, as another review points out, there isn't enough evidence to determine whether these benefits apply to formula-fed or combination-fed babies — and even among breastfed infants, effectiveness can vary from baby to baby. It's also critical to note that probiotics may not be safe for preterm infants and should not be given to any infant without approval from a pediatrician. ADHD and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) Probiotics for kids with ADHD or ASD is an emerging area of research. While larger, long-term studies are needed, a 2024 review reported that GG supplementation was associated with improvements in emotional, physical and social functioning in school-age children with ADHD. Additional strains — including L. Paracasei 37, L. Planetarium 128, L. reuteri DSM 17938 and bifidobacterium longum — have also shown potential benefits for children with ADHD or ASD, according to another review. Similarly, a 2025 review published in Nutrition Reviews found that probiotics may be helpful for improving social functioning, GI symptoms and gut health in kids with ASD. However, the authors caution that current evidence is not yet strong enough to support specific recommendations regarding strains or dosages. (back to top) When not to give your child probiotics Probiotic supplements may be helpful for some kids, but they aren't always necessary. And in some cases, these products may do more harm than good. Unless under the supervision of a health care professional, Sanghavi recommends avoiding giving probiotic supplements to: premature infants children with immature or compromised immune systems children with severe gut illnesses, such as acute pancreatitis children with a long-term IV line If you're unsure whether probiotics are safe for your child, it's always a good idea to ask your pediatrician. (back to top) What to consider when choosing a probiotic for kids "There are thousands of strains of probiotics, and a pediatrician can best help guide you with the best strain to use for your child's condition," says Sanghavi. Here are a few things to go over with your pediatrician as you decide which probiotic might be the right fit for your child: Appropriate strain(s): There is no one-size-fits-all probiotic — different strains support different symptoms and conditions. Choose a probiotic with strains that have been well-studied in children for the specific issue you're hoping to manage. Colony-forming units (CFUs): CFUs are a measure of the number of live, viable beneficial bacteria or yeast present in a supplement. There's no official guideline for how many CFUs to look for in a kids' probiotic supplement. Commonly studied doses in kids range from 1 to 10 billion CFUs, but your pediatrician can guide you on specific recommendations. Brand quality: To ensure you're choosing a high-quality probiotic, make sure probiotic strains are clearly labeled on the bottle and opt for products that are third-party tested for label accuracy by organizations like NSF or United States Pharmacopeia (USP). Choose an age-appropriate form: Just as with any medication or supplement, it's important to find a form your child will actually take. For babies, that might mean flavorless drops you can mix into a bottle. For toddlers and kids who struggle to swallow pills, look for powders you can stir into foods or kid-friendly chewables. (back to top) Best probiotic for kids If your kiddo is struggling with tummy troubles or frequent bouts of diarrhea or constipation, your first plan of action should be to talk with a pediatrician or registered dietitian. They'll likely recommend making changes to your child's diet, which may include encouraging probiotic-rich foods like yogurt or kefir. Depending on the situation, a probiotic supplement may be a safe and appropriate next step. Here are three probiotic supplements for kids to talk to your pediatrician about: (back to top) FAQs Do kids need probiotics? Probiotics can be an incredibly effective way to improve your kid's gut health, especially after a round of antibiotics or if there is an underlying digestive issue. However, not every kid needs a probiotic supplement. Most healthy kids can support gut health through eating a variety of high-fiber and probiotic-rich foods. Always speak to your child's pediatrician for guidance on when supplementation might be appropriate. What time of day should kids take probiotics? There is no "right" time to take probiotics. Current research shows no difference in a probiotic's effectiveness based on time of day or if eaten with meals. What matters more is taking it consistently and choosing the appropriate strain and dose. How can you tell if a probiotic is helping your child? For children experiencing tummy troubles or irregular bowel habits, signs that a probiotic is working may include more consistent stools or a noticeable decrease in the severity or duration of symptoms. While acute issues like diarrhea can improve within a few days, it often takes several weeks to notice meaningful effects. That's why tracking symptoms before and during probiotic use is helpful — keeping a simple log can make it easier to identify meaningful changes over time. What are some of the best probiotic foods for kids? According to Sandhavi, the best way for most healthy kids to get probiotics is through foods like yogurt, kefir and fermented vegetables such as sauerkraut and kimchi. (back to top) Meet our experts Rinarani Sanghavi, MD, board-certified pediatric gastroenterologist Jene Marie Tesoriero, MD, board-certified pediatrician Jonathan Miller, MD, board-certified pediatrician (back to top) Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Health Line
12-07-2025
- Health
- Health Line
Fish Oil for Kids: The 7 Best Options According to a Dietitian
On this page Key takeaways Most kids don't need fish oil supplements, but these can be useful in some cases. Nordic Naturals Children's DHA is our top pick because it's third-party tested, sustainably sourced, and available in two different forms. Other picks include California Gold Nutrition Kids Omega-3 Fish Oil as the best budget-friendly option and Nordic Naturals Gummy Chews. A quick look at the best fish oil for kids Fish oil supplements can be a quick and convenient way to squeeze extra omega-3 fatty acids — including docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) — into your child's diet to support brain and heart health. While most kids can meet their nutritional needs through a balanced diet, fish oil can be useful for picky eaters and those who don't often eat seafood or other foods high in omega-3. From liquids to softgels to gummies, there are many different options on the market designed specifically for kids. Keep reading for what you should look for, along with a few of our top picks. Healthline's review Nordic Naturals Children's DHA is a high quality fish oil supplement for kids. It comes in Strawberry flavor and provides 250 milligrams (mg) of total omega-3 sourced from wild Arctic cod, with 80 mg of EPA and 120 mg of DHA per serving when choosing the softgel form. It's available in both softgel and liquid form. Because the recommended dose is 4 softgels daily (which can be chewed), many might prefer the liquid option. However — hint — the California Gold liquid pick below is about the same price but includes more per bottle and also contains more EPA and DHA if you're looking for a higher dose. That said, it doesn't make test results available like Nordic Naturals and does not have any sustainability certifications. It's certified sustainable by FOS and third-party tested for purity, with test results available for all products. Pros & cons available in both softgel and liquid forms third-party tested certified sustainable non-GMO certificate of analysis (COA) available available in both softgel and liquid forms third-party tested certified sustainable non-GMO certificate of analysis (COA) available Product details Number of servings: 48 per bottle, 96 per bottle, and 192 per bottle Dose: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 mL) per day Active ingredient(s) (serving strength): omega-3s (530 mg) Available flavors: strawberry, orange Certifications: third-party tested for purity and potency, non-GMO verified Price per serving: $0.29 per serving (96-count bottle) Returns: no returns How we chose these fish oil supplements for kids As we compiled our list of the best fish oil supplements for kids, we considered the following factors: Nutrients: We selected supplements made with DHA and EPA, the easiest forms of omega-3 fatty acids for your body to use. Ingredients: We prioritized supplements made with high quality ingredients, which are free from artificial additives, unnecessary fillers, and preservatives. Quality testing: Many of the supplements on our list have been tested by third-party labs to help ensure purity, safety, and quality. Online reviews: We read real reviews from parents to determine which fish oil supplements for kids should make the cut. Vetting: All products on our list have been vetted to ensure they align with Healthline's brand integrity standards and approach to well-being. You can read more about our vetting process. What to look for in a fish oil supplement for kids (and what to avoid) There are several factors you can consider when shopping for a fish oil supplement for your child. A few of the key points to keep in mind include: Nutrients: Be sure to check the dose of DHA and EPA provided in your fish oil supplement. Additionally, some omega-3 supplements may also contain other nutrients — such as vitamins A, D, or E — so remember to check the label carefully, especially if your child is taking other vitamins or supplements. Other ingredients: Steer clear of fish oil supplements that contain artificial ingredients, fillers, or excessive amounts of added sugar. Instead, stick to products low in added sugar with a simple list of ingredients. Form: Fish oil is available in several forms, including liquids, gummies, and softgels. While liquid may be easier to mix into foods or drinks, some children and parents may prefer the taste or convenience of gummies and softgels instead. Source: Omega-3 supplements are typically derived from fatty fish, krill, cod liver, or algae. Consider your child's dietary requirements and personal preferences to determine which is right for you. Testing: Ideally, opt for supplements that are tested or certified by an independent organization for safety and quality. This can help ensure that your fish oil is free from harmful contaminants or heavy metals, such as mercury. Cost: Fish oil supplements are available at a wide range of price points. Be sure to keep your budget in mind and remember that a higher price tag doesn't always translate to a higher quality product. The benefits of fish oil for kids Fish oil supplements can be an easy way to help boost your child's intake of omega-3 fatty acids, especially if seafood isn't a regular part of their meal plan. It may also be linked to a few possible health perks, including for the following: May support brain health: Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in brain development during childhood and adolescence and have been tied to several benefits, especially related to attention, memory, executive function, and communication. May aid sleep: Research suggests that omega-3 fatty acids could reduce sleep disturbances and improve other aspects of sleep health during childhood. Possible benefits for asthma: One study found that getting enough omega-3 fatty acids in the diet may actually be linked to a lower risk of asthma in children and adolescents. However, keep in mind that fish oil supplements are not necessary for all children, especially if they regularly consume foods rich in omega-3, such as fatty fish. Who should not take fish oil? Not all kids need fish oil, especially if they're following a balanced diet and eating seafood on a regular basis. In fact, taking high doses of fish oil could cause unpleasant side effects like heartburn, nausea, and diarrhea. Children who are allergic to fish or shellfish also need to avoid fish oil. If needed, they can opt for omega-3 supplements from other sources instead, such as algal oil. If your child is taking any medications or other supplements, it's also a good idea to check in with your pediatrician before adding fish oil to the mix. Additionally, keep in mind that certain types of omega-3 supplements may contain high amounts of nutrients commonly found in multivitamins — like vitamin A or vitamin E — which can be harmful if consumed in excess. Fish oil for ADHD Omega-3 fatty acids have been studied for their ability to support brain health and improve symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. However, research has turned up mixed results on their effectiveness. For example, one study in 60 children with ADHD found that supplementing with 550 mg of EPA and 225 mg of DHA per day for 8 weeks could be tied to less impulsive behavior. Another 12-week study in 92 adolescents concluded that 1.2 grams of EPA per day could improve cognitive (thinking ability) symptoms in children and teens with ADHD, especially for those with low blood levels of EPA at baseline. On the other hand, researchers note that those with high levels of EPA could actually be negatively affected. Other studies suggest that there may be a link between EPA deficiency and the severity of ADHD symptoms. That being said, one review of 37 trials concluded that polyunsaturated fatty acids (including omega-3s) had no significant effect on parent-rated inattention, hyperactivity, impulsivity, or overall ADHD symptoms in children compared to a placebo. A 2023 meta-analysis also found that omega-3 supplementation does not improve ADHD symptoms but could offer other long-term benefits. Therefore, while omega-3 fatty acids can benefit brain health, it's still a good idea to check in with your pediatrician before using fish oil to help manage symptoms of ADHD. Frequently asked questions about fish oil for kids Do kids really need fish oil? No. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), most children in the United States consume the recommended amount of omega-3 in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). However, fish oil supplements can be a quick and convenient way to bump up intake for picky eaters or those who don't regularly eat foods rich in omega-3. No. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), most children in the United States consume the recommended amount of omega-3 in the form of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). However, fish oil supplements can be a quick and convenient way to bump up intake for picky eaters or those who don't regularly eat foods rich in omega-3. What is the right age to start taking fish oil? There's no set age for starting supplementation. In fact, fish oil supplements are available for all ages, from infants to adults. A pediatrician can provide personalized guidance on whether a fish oil supplement may be necessary for your child and offer recommendations on an appropriate dosage and form. There's no set age for starting supplementation. In fact, fish oil supplements are available for all ages, from infants to adults. A pediatrician can provide personalized guidance on whether a fish oil supplement may be necessary for your child and offer recommendations on an appropriate dosage and form. What are the side effects of taking fish oil? Fish oil can cause several side effects, but they are generally very mild. Possible side effects of fish oil supplements include an unpleasant taste, bad breath, headache, and digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhea, or nausea. Fish oil can cause several side effects, but they are generally very mild. Possible side effects of fish oil supplements include an unpleasant taste, bad breath, headache, and digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhea, or nausea. How much fish oil for ADHD kids? One small study found that 550 mg of EPA and 225 mg of DHA were associated with decreased impulsive behavior in children. Meanwhile, another study found that taking 1.2 g of EPA alone could improve cognitive symptoms. However, research is mixed on the use of fish oil for ADHD, and some other studies have found no benefit of supplementation for reducing symptoms of ADHD. One small study found that 550 mg of EPA and 225 mg of DHA were associated with decreased impulsive behavior in children. Meanwhile, another study found that taking 1.2 g of EPA alone could improve cognitive symptoms. However, research is mixed on the use of fish oil for ADHD, and some other studies have found no benefit of supplementation for reducing symptoms of ADHD. The takeaway Most children can meet their nutritional needs by following a balanced diet and don't need supplementation. However, fish oil supplements can be a simple way to boost your child's intake of omega-3 fatty acids if needed. They may be especially useful for picky eaters and those who aren't getting enough foods rich in omega-3s in their diet.
Daily Mail
01-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
The unexpected $26 item from Chemist Warehouse that's flying off shelves - and Kim Kardashian is a fan: 'Definitely a lifesaver'
Every parent knows kids face all kinds of challenges, from mosquito bites to sleepless nights and unwanted allergies. Thankfully, Aussie shoppers have discovered a simple yet powerful solution for navigating everything life throws at children - even adults. Backed by science and developed by dads, NATPAT offers specially formulated wellness patches - infused with all-natural essential oils - to tackle daily hurdles such as pesky mozzie bites, hayfever, stress, lack of concentration and sleep difficulties. The Aussie brand, known for its best-selling BuzzPatch Mosquito Repellent stickers, has now landed at Chemist Warehouse - making its natural wellness patches more accessible and affordable to families than ever. The kits have proven so popular with families that more than 100 million stickers have been sold around the world - along with thousands of rave reviews from parents, including an unexpected social media plug from Kim Kardashian. 'I hate mosquitos more than anything and found these stickers that are repellent,' Kim shared on her Instagram Story to her 356million followers, referring to her discovery of BuzzPatch. The range features eight types of peel-and-stick patches, each with its own purpose - including mosquito repellent, itch relief, zen, focus, breathe easy, bedtime, seasonal allergy and UV detection. These are no ordinary stickers - they're designed to provide a gentle and effective way to help kids feel their best and stay safe, using soothing natural ingredients infused with essential oils. They're priced at $25.99 for a pack of 28 stickers - just 92 cents per patch. For a limited time, they're on sale online at Chemist Warehouse for only $18.19 so if you're looking to grab a bargain and stock up, now's your chance. The BuzzPatch Kids Mosquito Repellent has become wildly popular among shoppers of all ages, thanks to its medical-grade fabric stickers formulated with citronella to help keep mosquitoes at bay, with up to eight hours of protection. Unlike topical bug repellent sprays, the all-natural patches are easy to use - simply stick them onto clothing instead of applying directly to the skin. So how does it work? Mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide we exhale. The adhesive patches repel them by masking this scent, making us less detectable and effectively hiding us from these pesky bugs. Loved by children and outdoor enthusiasts alike, the patches have worked wonders in repelling mosquitoes, boasting more than 4,550 five-star reviews. 'I stopped using mosquito repellent lotions years ago after I spilt some on my bedside table one night and saw that it had removed the varnish from the furniture the next morning. I mean who would want to put that on their body? I just stopped using anything and dealt with the bite... until I found this! Works so well. No bites = success,' one raved. 'By far definitely the best mosquito repellent. I have a six-month-old and so it's definitely a best option for her. I also have a 10-year-old allergic to mosquitos and no matter what I've used in the past, she still gets bites. This is definitely a lifesaver for our family and definitely will recommend and buy again,' another shared. 'I was avoiding taking my baby places where there were mosquitos as I didn't want to use traditional repellent because of the chemicals. These are amazing and work so well,' one added. 'I loved the idea of this product, but assumed it was too good to be true. We are now believers! We wore our BuzzPatches for a week straight as we lived by the lake and in creeks, and escaped mosquito bites. Totally wild,' another shared. And it's not just kids the patches protect from mozzies - as hundreds of adults swear by them as a natural mosquito repellent. The BuzzPatch Kids Mosquito Repellent has become wildly popular among shoppers of all ages, thanks to its medical-grade fabric stickers formulated with citronella to help keep mosquitoes at bay, with up to eight hours of protection 'I've always hated bug spray so when I came across these, I knew I had to try them. They are truly amazing. I wore two on my leggings during my hike through the mountains and bush... and the stickers stuck the entire time. I'm so impressed with the quality and effectiveness of these, cannot recommend them enough,' one raved. 'I love being able to use the convenient stickers instead of sprays, especially for my little one… but my husband and I use them all the time too,' another shared. 'These are amazing, they really work. I'm a magnet for mosquitoes and didn't get bit once,' one added. In addition to BuzzPatch, the brand also offers MagicPatch Itch Relief, which provides instant relief from mosquito bites without the use of essential oils. It works by gently lifting the skin to help drain the lymphatic system. For sleep-deprived kids and adults, shoppers can try SleepyPatch, designed to help calm the nervous system and encourage relaxation using a blend of mandarin, lavender and sweet marjoram. The best-selling stickers are said to relax the body almost instantly, helping children - or even adults - drift into a deep sleep. The patches are so popular that they've received more than 3,000 five-star reviews - and it's not hard to see why. 'I can climb into bed, fall asleep, stay asleep (that's new) and wake up feeling refreshed about seven to eight hours later... I haven't slept this well in around 20 years,' one said. 'I have suffered from Insomnia all my life. I don't know what it's like to "sleep through". The resulting sleep deprivation has cost me dearly in every aspect of my life,' another shopper shared, as she gave the patches a five-star rating. 'Absolutely amazing for my child... My child was waking up three times a night, doesn't wake at all now,' one added. SunnyPatch makes sun protection easier and more fun for the little ones. These clever UV-sensing stickers change colour to remind parents when it's time to reapply sunscreen, ensuring kids stay protected while enjoying the outdoors The natural, chemical-free range offers parents everything they need to help their youngsters thrive through the day. Whether it's ZenPatch for soothing an overactive mind, StuffyPatch for instant relief from a congested nose or FocusPatch to support calm and relaxation, there's a patch for every moment. For children struggling with allergy and hayfever symptoms, the Seasonal Sensitivity patches are infused with grapefruit, lemon, white cypress leaf and peppermint oil to help provide natural comfort and relief. Meanwhile, SunnyPatch makes sun protection easier and more fun for the kids. These clever UV-sensing stickers change colour to remind parents when it's time to reapply sunscreen, ensuring kids stay protected while enjoying the outdoors. NATPAT is available in more than 8,000 stores around the world - including Chemist Warehouse online. To shop the NATPAT range, click here. The NATPAT products available at Chemist Warehouse NATPAT offers parents everything they need to help their youngsters thrive through the day BuzzPatch Kids Mosquito Repellent: The mosquito repellent patch formulated with all-natural essential oils including Citronella to help keep bugs at bay SleepyPatch Bedtime Sleep Promoting: Designed to help calm the nervous system and encourage relaxation with a blend of mandarin, lavender, sweet marjoram and vetiver StuffyPatch Breathe Easy: A refreshing blend of eucalyptus and menthol to instantly relieve a congested nose Seasonal Sensitivity: Made with grapefruit, lemon, white cypress leaf and peppermint oil to provide comfort from allergy and hayfever symptoms Kids ZenPatch: Formulated to help soothe an overactive mind and regulate emotions with mandarin, sweet orange, atlas cedarwood and lavender Kids FocusPatch: Designed to help relax the nervous system, calm behaviour and promote focus with a blend of lemon, atlas cedarwood, bergamot and peppermint
CTV News
02-06-2025
- Health
- CTV News
Getting kids excited about dental health
Kitchener Watch Dentist Mandeep Johal stops by with some dental hygiene hacks to help kids through the summer months.
Associated Press
14-05-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
The Zbar Bake Sale Collection Features Two New Flavors and Helps Raise Awareness of KABOOM! Partnership Focusing on Kids' Access to Outdoor Play
Approximately 30 million kids in the United States lack nearby outdoor places to play, inspiring the Zbar brand partnership with KABOOM! EAST HANOVER, N.J., May 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Zbar, the energy snack bar for kids, is kicking off the Spring season with the launch of the Bake Sale Collection, featuring two delicious new flavors: Cinnamon Roll and Cookies 'n Creme. Inspired by home baking, Cinnamon Roll tastes like all the fun that Saturday mornings bring in a bar, while Cookies 'n Creme offers a delicious twist on a family favorite. With a soft-baked texture, Zbar energy snack bars are made for busy, adventure-fueled days—perfect for park outings and snack breaks before sports practice. The Zbar Bake Sale Collection also highlights the brand's partnership with KABOOM!, a nonprofit organization committed to ending playspace inequity. According to a study from the University of Michigan, kids in the U.S. get only 7 minutes of unstructured outdoor play time per day, on average.1 In addition, the Trust for Public Land found that nearly 30 million kids live more than a 10-minute walk from the nearest park.2 As the brand that believes in helping fuel kids to discover their world, Zbar announced a two-year, $1 million partnership with KABOOM! in July 2024 to help build nature-based, sustainable playgrounds for communities nationwide. The initiative supports KABOOM!'s climate-forward playground design by incorporating natural elements like trees and shade structures, and replacing heat-retaining materials with cooler, sustainable alternatives. Together, the Zbar brand and KABOOM! want to create new nature-friendly playgrounds in communities where they're needed most to help give more kids the opportunity to spend time playing outdoors–even as the summer starts to heat up. 'At Zbar, we're committed to crafting quality snacks for kids that help fuel active exploration,' said Valerie Van Arkel, Director of Marketing for Zbar at Mondelēz International. 'The delicious new Cinnamon Roll and Cookies 'n Creme flavors in our Bake Sale Collection deliver the delightful taste kids want for their warm-weather adventures, while highlighting the work we are doing with KABOOM! to help connect more kids to nature and outdoor play.' 'The joy of outdoor play is something that every child needs to experience,' said Lysa Ratliff, Chief Executive Officer of KABOOM!. 'In partnership with Zbar, we will create eight new playgrounds that are nature exploration areas, helping more than 15,000 kids develop lasting memories outdoors. Together, we're making great progress toward our goals of fostering a more sustainable playground industry and helping increase the number of kids who can get outside to play.' Designed to provide parents with fuel their kids will love, Zbar energy snack bars are non-GMO, USDA Organic certified and a good source of fiber with 11g-13g whole grains per bar. Zbar Cinnamon Roll and Cookies 'n Creme flavors are available at all major national retailers in packs of 6 and 12. References About CLIF For more than 30 years, CLIF has crafted delicious food with organic whole grain oats under its CLIF BAR, Zbar, Nut Butter Bar, and LUNA brands. In 2022, CLIF became part of the Mondelēz International, Inc. (Nasdaq: MDLZ), portfolio of brands empowering people to snack right in over 150 countries around the world. With 2024 net revenue of approximately $36.4 billion, Mondelēz is leading the future of snacking with other iconic global and local brands such as OREO, RITZ, belVita, LU, and TATE'S BAKE SHOP biscuits and baked snacks, as well as CADBURY DAIRY MILK, MILKA and TOBLERONE chocolate. Mondelēz International is a proud member of the Standard and Poor's 500, Nasdaq 100, and Dow Jones Sustainability Index. For more information about CLIF BAR, please visit CLIF | Mondelēz International, Inc. ( About KABOOM! KABOOM! is the national nonprofit committed to ending playspace inequity – the reality that quality places to play are not available to every child, especially in communities of color. Since 1996, KABOOM! has partnered with kids and communities to create or transform 17,000+ playspaces and ensure that more than 12 million kids have equitable access to the critical benefits and opportunities that playspaces offer. KABOOM! continues to make progress on its 25 in 5 Initiative to End Playspace Inequity through new partnerships with a goal of accelerating efforts in 25 municipal systems toward achieving their mission at scale across the United States. Learn more at or join the conversation on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Mondelēz International
