Heal the gut, heal the child! 80% of our immune system resides in the gut. If your child is struggling with recurrent infections or autoimmune illness like rheumatoid arthritis, eczema, allergies, etc. the gut is really “ground zero” for defending his/her health. Immune dysfunction is not the only threat of an unhealthy gut. Serotonin, the brain neurotransmitter related to mood, anxiety, depression, and focus, is manufactured in the gut.

So, how do you begin to create a strong foundation with which to support the body nutritionally? Healing the gut with a healthy, organic, non-inflammatory diet, probiotics and juicing will set the stage for long term health. Gut bacteria are vulnerable to lifestyle and environmental factors, such as; sugar/fructose, refined grains, processed foods and antibiotics. Telltale signs that unhealthy bacteria are on the rise in your gut include; gas/bloating, constipation or diarrhea, fatigue, nausea, headaches and sugar cravings.

Eating traditionally fermented foods such as tempeh, kimchi, sauerkraut and pickled vegetables will aid in proper digestion. Additionally, cultured foods like yogurt, some cheeses and buttermilk are good sources of natural, healthy bacteria, provided they are not pasteurized. (Pasteurization will destroy many of the naturally occurring probiotics.)

A high quality probiotic, taken consistently, can be very effective in re-seeding the intestinal tract with good bacteria. However, it is important to emphasize that it is intended only as a supplement for the maintenance of a well-functioning digestive system. This is not a substitute or replacement for, cultured foods and a healthy diet.

Ready to give your family’s eating habits an overhaul? We support all patients with their nutritional needs and would be happy to provide you with guidance. Contact us to schedule a nutritional consultation so that we can provide you with personalized recommendations and guidance suite to your family’s needs!

Food is fuel, and real food—healthy proteins, vegetables (complex carbohydrates) and fruits —are high-octane fuel. You feel best when you eat in small doses throughout the day, beginning with breakfast-and so do your kids.

Have you noticed that your child has difficulty focusing? Do they occasionally display unstable moods or suddenly become irritable and anxious? Maybe you notice windows of time that they seems to “crash”-suddenly appearing weak and tired. More often than not, this is due to a lack of balance in blood sugar levels. Try to provide children with a protein source every 3-4 hours. Hard boiled eggs, rolled up turkey slices, a handful of nuts or a protein based smoothie will rapidly stabilize their mood, focus and energy level.

Aim to incorporate more local and organic fruits and vegetables. Remember, the fresher the food, the more potent its nutrients. On the weekends, consider batch cooking. Fresh organic chicken, turkey, beef and veggie based stews/soups can be prepared and frozen. This will provide you with an arsenal of healthy (quick!) meals to serve on busy weeknights when a drive-thru becomes the most appealing.

Plan ahead. If you and your family will be on the go for several hours, a well timed snack can mean the difference between a peaceful ride and a complete and utter meltdown. Instead of turning to sugary processed snack foods, try some hummus or almond butter and chop up some veggies for dipping. Even a simple handful of nuts can feel magical when pulled from your purse at the right time.