Processed foods impact on children, leading to health issues like childhood obesity, diabetes, and cognitive problems. Learn more about how diet, added sugars, trans fats, and sodium affect kids at 417 Integrative Medicine.. Our kids are dealing with a lot these days from overly processed foods, dysregulated nervous systems, heavy metals, food sensitivities, and nutrient deficiencies, there is SO much going on. When your child is showing signs of anxiety, behavior problems, eczema, constipation, hyperactivity, and other abnormal symptoms, it might be time to take a DEEPER look at what’s happening. We believe children deserve a root-cause approach to medicine, too. Instead of instantly prescribing medications for behavior issues or covering up autoimmune conditions with steroids, we look at the WHOLE-body picture. Addressing the cause, not covering the symptom, is what our pediatric providers are trained to do. If your family needs an integrative approach, we’d love to have you in our office! Call to get scheduled with our pediatric providers.
Processed foods have become a staple in many households due to their convenience and long shelf life. However, they are often laden with unhealthy fats, sugars, and additives that can negatively impact children's health. Studies have shown that a diet high in processed foods can lead to nutrient deficiencies, obesity, and chronic health conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
Processed foods often lack essential nutrients that are crucial for a child's growth and development. For instance, many processed foods are stripped of fiber, vitamins, and minerals during production. Instead, they are filled with preservatives and artificial flavors, which can lead to inflammation and disrupt the body's natural processes
Children today are exposed to numerous stressors, from academic pressures to social media influences, which can contribute to a dysregulated nervous system. A dysregulated nervous system can manifest as anxiety, depression, and behavioral problems. Chronic stress can alter the brain's structure and function, leading to long-term mental health issues
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and yoga, can help regulate the nervous system and reduce stress levels. Encouraging children to engage in physical activities and ensuring they have a supportive environment at home can also play a significant role in maintaining a balanced nervous system
Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic can be found in the environment and can enter the body through contaminated water, food, and air. Exposure to these heavy metals can have detrimental effects on a child's developing brain and nervous system. For example, lead exposure has been linked to lower IQ, attention deficits, and behavioral problems
Parents can reduce their children's exposure to heavy metals by providing clean, filtered water and choosing organic foods when possible. Regular testing of water sources and advocating for cleaner environmental policies can also help mitigate these risks
Food sensitivities and allergies are becoming increasingly common in children. These conditions can cause a range of symptoms, from digestive issues to skin rashes and behavioral problems. Common culprits include gluten, dairy, and certain food additives
Identifying and eliminating trigger foods can significantly improve a child's symptoms. Working with a healthcare provider to conduct proper testing and create a tailored nutrition plan can help manage food sensitivities and improve overall health
Nutrient deficiencies are a significant concern for children, especially those consuming a diet high in processed foods. Deficiencies in essential nutrients such as iron, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can affect a child's physical and mental development. For instance, iron deficiency can lead to anemia and cognitive impairments, while low levels of vitamin D have been linked to an increased risk of autoimmune diseases
Ensuring a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help prevent nutrient deficiencies. Supplementation may also be necessary in some cases, but it should be done under the guidance of a healthcare provider
Addressing the root cause of health issues rather than merely treating symptoms is a cornerstone of integrative medicine. This approach involves looking at the whole-body picture and identifying underlying factors contributing to a child's symptoms. By focusing on diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors, healthcare providers can create personalized treatment plans that address the root causes of health issues
Anxiety and behavior problems in children can often be traced back to imbalances in diet, exposure to toxins, and stress. For example, a diet high in sugar and low in essential nutrients can lead to mood swings and irritability. Similarly, exposure to environmental toxins such as lead and pesticides can affect brain function and behavior
Implementing dietary changes, reducing exposure to toxins, and incorporating stress-reducing activities can help manage anxiety and behavior problems in children. Integrative healthcare providers can offer guidance on these strategies and provide additional support through therapies such as biofeedback and cognitive-behavioral therapy
Skin conditions like eczema can be a sign of underlying health issues such as food sensitivities, nutrient deficiencies, or an overactive immune system. Identifying and addressing these underlying causes can help improve skin health and reduce the need for topical treatments and medications (Lio et al., 2013).
An integrative approach to treating eczema may include dietary changes, supplementation, and stress management techniques. Healthcare providers may also recommend natural topical treatments and probiotics to support skin health
Digestive health is crucial for overall well-being, and issues like constipation can indicate underlying problems such as food sensitivities, lack of fiber, or imbalances in gut bacteria. Ensuring a diet rich in fiber, staying hydrated, and addressing any food intolerances can help improve digestive health
Probiotics and prebiotics can also support a healthy gut microbiome and improve digestive function. Healthcare providers may recommend specific strains of probiotics based on a child's individual needs
Hyperactivity and attention issues, often diagnosed as ADHD, can be influenced by diet, environmental toxins, and stress levels. Research has shown that dietary interventions, such as eliminating artificial colors and preservatives, can help manage symptoms of hyperactivity
An integrative approach to treating hyperactivity may include dietary changes, supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids, and behavioral therapies. This holistic approach can help address the underlying factors contributing to hyperactivity and improve overall functioning
Integrative pediatric care focuses on treating the whole child, considering physical, emotional, and environmental factors. This approach emphasizes prevention, education, and the use of natural therapies alongside conventional treatments. By addressing the root causes of health issues, integrative pediatric care can improve long-term outcomes and promote optimal health
• Micha, R., et al. (2017). "Association Between Dietary Factors and Mortality From Heart Disease, Stroke, and Type 2 Diabetes in the United States." JAMA, 317(9), 912-924.
• Monteiro, C. A., et al. (2018). "Ultra-processed products are becoming dominant in the global food system." Obesity Reviews, 19(3), 258-268.
• McEwen, B. S. (2004). "Protection and damage from acute and chronic stress: allostasis and allostatic load overload and secondary allostatic overload." Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1032(1), 1-7.
• Davidson, R. J., & McEwen, B. S. (2012). "Social influences on neuroplasticity: stress and interventions to promote well-being." Nature Neuroscience, 15(5), 689-695.
• Lanphear, B. P., et al. (2005). "Low-level environmental lead exposure and children's intellectual function: an international pooled analysis." Environmental Health Perspectives, 113(7), 894-899.
• Bellinger, D. C. (2008). "Very low lead exposures and children's neurodevelopment." Current Opinion in Pediatrics, 20(2), 172-177.
• Sicherer, S. H., & Sampson, H. A. (2014). "Food allergy: Epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment." Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 133(2), 291-307.
• Jones, S. M., et al. (2015). "Clinical assessment of food allergy: A review." Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, 136(5), 1170-1179.
• Zimmermann, M. B., & Hurrell, R. F. (2007).
