We support the World Health Organisation’s recommendation for exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and continued breastfeeding along with the introduction of nutritionally adequate and safe complementary (solid) foods at 6 months together with continued breastfeeding up to two years of age and beyond.

Gut Issues in Toddlers and Their Link to Emotional Wellbeing


It’s not always easy to spot gut issues in toddlers. Some children express discomfort clearly through symptoms like prolonged stomach pain, reflux, or constipation.

For others, the signs may be less obvious. You might notice picky eating, mood swings, tantrums, or trouble concentrating.1Since these behaviours are typical in toddlers, it’s easy to overlook them as signs of underlying digestive issues.

Referred to as the “second brain”, the gut not only aids digestion but also produces key brain chemicals like serotonin that help children manage stress and regulate emotions.1

In addition, the gut is linked to the brain through the Enteric Nervous System (ENS) found in the gut lining. This gut-brain connection helps explain why tummy troubles can also show up as anxiety, sleep disruptions, or behaviour changes.2

Gut discomfort is more common than many parents realise, especially during the toddler years when the digestive system is still maturing. If gut issues go unaddressed, they may also affect a toddler’s ability to engage in key developmental activities like play, skill-building, and social activities.2


The Ripple Effect of Gut Issues in Toddlers on Family Life

When a child’s gut is out of balance, it can take a mental and emotional toll on their family as well.

Mealtimes become stressful, outings may be cut short, and even simple daily routines will feel overwhelming. Parents are also likely to find themselves trying to anticipate and avoid triggers that could cause discomfort to their child, all while managing their own stress and fatigue.

Over time, this emotional strain may even create a feedback loop—where a parent’s anxiety adds to the child’s, making the situation more challenging for everyone.

The good news is that understanding this developmental phase can help parents make informed choices about nutrition and effectively support their child's digestive health.


Nutrition That Prioritises a Child’s Gut Health and Immune System

A toddler's digestive comfort is closely tied to their daily nutrition. Consuming foods high in fibre, like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and drinking enough water, promotes easier digestion and lessens stomach issues.

However, when a child experiences digestive discomfort - such as gas, fussiness, or difficulty processing certain foods - it becomes essential to ensure they receive wholesome, balanced nutrition that supports gentle digestion while strengthening their overall immunity.7 8

Here is where Enfagrow A+ Pro Gentlease can help. Designed with partially hydrolysed proteins that are broken down into easier to digest bits, the formula supports gentle digestion while still delivering essential nutrients needed for healthy growth and overall well-being.

Milk fat globule membrane (MFGM) is another component that supports both brain development and emotional regulation.3Research suggests that MFGM can benefit the developing brain-immune-gut axis in young children by promoting better cognitive growth, reducing infection risks, and enhancing the activity and function of the gut microbiome.4

When combined with docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid, MFGM helps provide comprehensive support for a child’s overall development.4

The newly added Polydextrose (PDX) and Galactooligosaccharides (GOS), are prebiotics that are mainly derived from leguminous plants and feed the beneficial bacteria in your child's gut.5By promoting the growth of Bifidobacteria and Lactobacilli bacteria, GOS helps to improve stool consistency and maintain healthy digestion.


Essential Nutrients for Child’s Growth and Development

Apart from these components, Enfagrow A+ Pro Gentlease also boasts a comprehensive range of nutrients that support your child’s overall health. These include:

  • Calcium and vitamin D help strengthen bones and prevent nutritional deficiencies that could impact your child’s growth and development.

  • Iron and zinc support immune function, helping your child's body defend against illness while maintaining energy levels.

  • Lower lactose and no added sucrose support gut health by encouraging the growth of good bacteria, aiding digestion, and strengthening your child’s immune system.6


In conclusion

While gut issues in toddlers are common, it's important to know when to consult a paediatrician. If your child's symptoms persist or worsen, seeking professional guidance can help you identify underlying issues and develop an appropriate care plan.

Recognising and addressing gut issues in toddlers can make a meaningful difference, not only for the child, but also for the whole family. With the right nutritional support, like the gentle and science-backed formulation of Enfagrow A+ Pro Gentlease, parents can take a proactive step in easing digestive discomfort, supporting emotional well-being, and nurturing healthy development.

Explore how Enfagrow A+ Pro Gentlease can help ease gut issues in toddlers. Sign up for Enfamama A+ Club for our FREE guide for expert tips on nurturing a healthy digestive system.


Gut issues in toddlers: Happy parents playing with their toddler outdoors after overcoming gut issues

Recommended articles:

  1. How Milk Formula Gentle on Tummies Brings 24-hour Peace of Mind and Fewer Worries to Mum

  2. Supporting Your Child's And His Delicate Tummy's Development

  3. How to Improve Digestion in Toddlers and Give Mums Peace of Mind 24/7?

References:

  1. HML Functional Care. How the Gut Brain Connection Influences Your Child’s Mood [online] Available at https://hmlfunctionalcare.com/how-gut-brain-connection-influences-your-childs-mood/ [Accessed September 2025]

  2. Nurture Children’s Health. The Gut-Brain Connection and Children’s Health. https://nurturechildrenshealth.com/the-gut-brain-connection-and-childrens-health/ Accessed September 2025

  3. Enfagrow. Why Enfagrow A+ Pro Gentlease. https://www.enfagrow.com.sg/pages/why-enfagrow-pro-a-gentlease Accessed September 2025

  4. National Library of Medicine. 2022. Brain–immune–gut benefits with early life supplementation of milk fat globule membrane. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9260205/ Accessed September 2025

  5. National Library of Medicine. 2022. Biological activity of galacto-oligosaccharides: A review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9485631/ Accessed September 2025

  6. National Library of Medicine. 2021. The Prebiotic Potential of Inulin-Type Fructans: A Systematic Review. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8970830/ Accessed September 2025

  7. Pubmed. Effect of prebiotics on gastrointestinal symptoms and quality of life in children with intestinal failure: A pilot study. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40770855/ Accessed September 2025

  8. Emerald Insight. Dietary intervention of prebiotics and vitamins on gut health of children. https://www.emerald.com/nfs/article-abstract/52/7/1045/452420/Dietary-intervention-of-prebiotics-and-vitamins-on?redirectedFrom=fulltext Accessed September 2025

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