Baby Eczema and Gut Health
Eczema can be one of the most frustrating conditions for parents to navigate. Those dry, itchy patches of skin can cause significant discomfort for your little one and emotional stress for you. While it’s often treated as a surface-level issue, research increasingly shows that eczema is deeply connected to gut health—a connection known as the gut-skin axis.
Understanding this connection can empower you to support your baby’s health from within, helping to reduce flare-ups and even prevent other immune-related conditions like allergies and asthma.
If you’re ready to explore your baby’s gut microbiome, I highly recommend testing with Tiny Health, a tool that provides actionable insights into your baby’s unique microbiome. Use my code REF-BIANCA0755 for $40 off!
We have tested ourselves and our infant about 4 times now and will continue to do so throughout her life. The most important time is the first 1,000 days of life starting from conception to about 2.5 years of age when the gut development and microbiome are easily manipulated and you can make a HUGE difference by healing your child from the inside out for lifelong health.
The Gut-Skin Axis: The Hidden Link Behind Eczema
Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is a condition characterized by inflamed, itchy, and dry skin. What’s less obvious is that the immune response driving eczema often starts in the gut.
How the Gut Impacts the Skin
The gut-skin axis is a two-way communication system that connects the gut microbiome, immune system, and skin health.
Gut Barrier Function: The gut lining acts as a gatekeeper, allowing nutrients to pass through while blocking toxins and harmful microbes. When this barrier is weakened (commonly called “leaky gut”), it can trigger systemic inflammation, which often manifests as skin issues like eczema.
Microbial Imbalances: An imbalance in gut bacteria (dysbiosis) can disrupt immune regulation, leading to overactive responses that exacerbate eczema.
What Does Research Show About Baby Eczema and the Microbiome?
Studies have identified specific patterns in the gut microbiome of babies with eczema, highlighting both deficiencies in beneficial bacteria and an overgrowth of harmful strains.
Key Findings
Low Levels of Faecalibacterium:
Produces butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that strengthens the gut lining and reduces inflammation.
Babies with eczema often have significantly lower levels of this beneficial bacteria.
Increased Enterobacteriaceae:
A family of bacteria that, in high amounts, can cause inflammation and contribute to immune dysregulation.
Fluctuating Akkermansia muciniphila Levels:
This bacteria helps maintain gut barrier integrity. Imbalances in its levels are linked to eczema and other immune conditions.
Steps to Heal the Gut and Support Skin Health
1. Test Your Baby’s Gut Microbiome To Find Out Where They Are and What Needs To Be Addressed
Every baby’s microbiome is unique, so it’s essential to identify specific imbalances before starting any interventions. Testing with Tiny Health gives you a detailed report of your baby’s gut bacteria, helping you target the root causes of eczema and their unique gut signature. Use my code REF-BIANCA0755 for $40 off!
2. Feed Beneficial Bacteria
For Breastfed Babies:
Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs): These natural prebiotics in breast milk feed beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacterium.
Ensure your diet includes diverse, nutrient-rich foods to support your milk quality.
For Formula-Fed Babies:
Choose formulas with added HMOs or probiotics designed to mimic the benefits of breast milk.
3. Introduce Gut-Healing Foods
Incorporating nutrient-dense, probiotic-rich foods into your baby’s diet can help balance their microbiome and soothe inflammation.
Gut-Healing Foods for Babies
Meat Stock: A gentle and nutrient-rich source of collagen, gelatin, and amino acids. Use it as a base for purees or soups.
Sauerkraut Brine: Start with a few drops of this probiotic-rich liquid and gradually increase. Follow my recipe to make it HERE or see my guide on what brands to purchase fermented foods from!
Kefir (Milk or Water): Provides a diverse range of beneficial bacteria. Blend it into fruit purees for an easy introduction.
Fermented Veggies: Mash or puree fermented carrots or beets for older babies.
4. Use Probiotics Strategically
Probiotics can help restore balance to the microbiome, but they should be targeted to address specific deficiencies. These should be introduced for a SHORT PERIOD of time for young children.
Strains for Eczema: Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG has been shown to reduce eczema symptoms in infants.
Work with a Practitioner: Testing ensures you choose the right strains and avoid unnecessary supplements.
5. Minimize Triggers and Support the Microbiome
Avoid Harmful Ingredients: Harsh soaps, fragrances, and synthetic detergents can disrupt the skin barrier and microbiome.
Limit Processed Foods: For older babies, avoid sugar and refined carbs, which feed harmful gut bacteria.
Encourage Microbial Diversity: Let your baby safely explore the world—playing in dirt, being around animals, and interacting with nature introduces beneficial microbes.
Who Can Benefit from Gut Healing?
While every baby can benefit from a healthy gut, those with eczema or the following symptoms may need extra support:
Persistent or worsening eczema.
Digestive issues like constipation or diarrhea.
Food allergies or intolerances.
Frequent illnesses or slow recovery.
Addressing Eczema from the Inside Out
Eczema can be a complex condition, but addressing gut health provides a powerful opportunity to reduce symptoms and support your baby’s long-term health. By testing your baby’s microbiome with Tiny Health and incorporating targeted foods and probiotics, you can build a stronger foundation for your child’s immunity and overall well-being.
Don’t forget to use code REF-BIANCA0755 for $40 off your Tiny Health gut test!
Ready to take the first step toward healing? Check out this article on baby eczema and the gut microbiome to dive deeper into the science behind the gut-skin connection. 😊