Children's Nutritional Therapy and Functional Medicine 

 

Some experts have referred to our current generation of children as "Generation Rx". This is due to the increasing numbers of health challenges that our children currently face from increasing numbers of childhood conditions such as  infant colic and reflux, eczema, asthma, autism, ADD/ADHD and even depression and anxiety. Unfortunately, this has led to increased numbers of prescription medications to suppress symptoms. Nutritional therapy and the functional medicine approach are about identifying underlying root cause and finding long term workable solutions which prevent symptoms recurring. Again, we help families optimise nutrition in terms of diversity of foods offered to children, but also take into account issues around absorption and digestive health. Our consultations with children ask many questions around certain symptoms which can give important clues around nutrient deficiency and areas of digestive and immune compromise. We also offer a range of functional testing to offer a more targeted approach in complex cases. The questions we should be asking in all of these cases is simply WHY? Why have we ended up with this symptom or symptoms? What is the root cause/s? 

How do we work with children with behavioural challenges? 

One of the landmark books on this subject is the Gut and Psychology Syndrome written by Neurologist and nutritional scientist Dr Natasha Campbell-McBride. This book examines the connection between the gut and the brain. Numerous studies have established a strong link between autism and increased risk of gut inflammation. As 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut and our microbes are involved in manufacturing this important neurotransmitter, associations have been drawn between mood and anxiety with the microbiome. Some children exhibiting sleep challenges have also been found to have low levels of melatonin. 

Areas of consideration

• Microbiome: Imbalances in our gut flora need to be identified and corrected. Functional stool testing can assist in complex cases. 
• Nutrient deficiencies: Children with gut compromise typically have issues around absorption and therefore become low in some key nutrients required for brain chemistry and mood. Improving absorption therefore and optimising nutrients is key to achieving our long term health outcomes. 
• Food sensitivities: These are often present in children with compromised gut flora which can set us up for the "leaky gut" phenomenon. Identifying trigger foods via an elimination diet and sometimes testing can reduce inflammation and give symptomatic relief. 
• Toxins: Supporting our detoxification pathways, getting the basics right such as good hydration, plenty of fibre, encouraging physical activity and good quality sleep are paramount. We then have to ensure optimal bowel functioning and ensure the body can detox itself via every pathway. Children with a compromised microbiome are more at risk for challenges in this area and genetic issues also play a role here too. We also assist families in reducing toxic load and any obvious environmental allergens. 
• Stress: Being aware of our emotions and finding enjoyable strategies for managing them can be particularly helpful for all members of the family. I sometimes refer on to other therapies, but also support families with tips on mindfulness, meditation, quiet time and making these part of our day to day life. 

FAQ's 

Do children always have to attend the appointment? 

It is useful to meet the child at least once, just to get a true clinical picture. If two adults came to the appointment then it is quite okay to take children away if they become restless after a few minutes. It is also acceptable to bring along ipads, and quiet activities if children are going to be staying for the full session. 

Is it okay to bring other siblings to the appointment? 

Yes. Again, we recommend bringing along some quiet activities for them to do. Don't worry, we are used to children and are very welcoming to the whole family. 

Do we work with children with infant colic and reflux? 

Yes. There are many risk factors associated with the development of these conditions. Sometimes, they are due to digestive compromise or food allergens but they can also be related to mechanical problems such as tongue tie. Baby Massage can help relieve some of the symptoms of colic, reflux and constipation. However, getting to root cause is important. Harriette is one of the first professionals in the UK to have completed specialist training in The REFLUX method with Aine Homer. Harriette will ask lots of questions and offers a no stone left unturned approach to finding solutions. All of Harriette's Baby Massage classes are now 1:1 as she has chosen to specialise in this area. She also often refers on to other practitioners. Beverley and Harriette can work together on these cases and therefore offer a very comprehensive approach tackling all aspects. 

Prices can be found on our nutritional therapy page.  We offer both virtual consultations and consultations in clinic.