Gut Instincts: Nurturing Children's Well-Being from Within

As parents, the well-being of our little ones is always at the forefront. When our children aren't feeling their best and we find ourselves without solutions, it can be quite a challenging.

Research has established that many illnesses begin in the gut, from small symptoms to chronic illnesses. Our gut is complex housing over 100 trillion bacteria (microbiota), millions of neurons and contains 60-70% of our immune cells.  

From persistent tummy troubles to behavioural changes, it is now understood that changes in intestinal permeability (or leaky gut) is associated with many health conditions, and it is vital when treating children.

Unravelling the Link Between Gut Health and Childhood Illness

The link between gut health and childhood illnesses has been long recognised by Naturopaths and holistic practitioners and is now well-established by research.

The gut microbiome has as symbiotic relationship with humans, as we provide a favourable environment and food source for the microorganisms, and they produce biochemical compounds that help to main a healthy gut and good health.

The small intestine contains tiny finger projections called villi, responsible for the absorption of nutrients. Tight junctions between these villi maintain the intestinal barrier preventing toxins, large molecules, and pathogens from entering the blood stream.

A shift in the gut microbiota can lead to leaky gut (intestinal hyperpermeability) which occurs when the tight junctions do not function  well and this barrier becomes less effective or leaky allowing larger molecules (eg food) to enter the blood stream that usually would not be able to penetrate.

Understandably a wide range of symptoms are now associated with conditions including autoimmune disorders, behavioural changes, autism, anxiety, allergies and can impact on their failure to thrive.

Gastrointestinal symptoms are common in children with autism spectrum disorder contributing to changes in behaviour, sleep, attention, and development.

Clinically studies also demonstrate that specific strains of probiotics are effective in not only reducing the number of common colds but also the severity and duration of a cold.

Spotting the Signs of Poor Gut Health

There can be many reasons that contribute to a change in gut function and decline in a child’s health with common factors including:

·         Diet (processed food/sugar, gluten/dairy, or food intolerances)

·         Infections

·         Stress

·         Toxins (environmental exposure)

The effects of leaky gut in children are diverse and can cause further nutrient deficiencies effecting immune function, the nervous system and energy.

So, what are some of the common signs to look for that may give clues about your child’s gut health? It is not always obvious, however the following symptoms give clues and may warrant investigation:

·         Digestive symptoms including bloating, wind, nausea, changes in appetite.

·         Constipation and/or diarrhoea  

·         Changes in sleep

·         Behavioural changes

·         Allergies or food intolerances – rashes, eczema

·         Autoimmune conditions

·         Failure to Thrive

·         Changes in energy

·         Neurodevelopmental conditions – Autism, ADHD

Healing the Gut: Strategies for Parents

Children can typically be more vital and bounce back from illness much quicker than adults however when it comes to gut health, this may take longer to achieve.

Five steps from the Institute of Functional medicine that are effective in healing are:

1.       Remove:  all triggers or causes contributing to inflammation. This may include food allergens, bacterial, virus, or yeast overgrowths and processed foods and additives.

2.       Replace: nutrient and enzymes deficiencies by supplementing with digestive enzymes as well as adding lemon juice in water. Encourage chewing properly and eating in a relaxed environment.

3.       Re-populate: using probiotics and prebiotics. Probiotics improve gut health and prebiotics can be found in a wide variety of plant-based foods including fermented foods and whole grains.

4.       Repair: with specific vitamins and minerals to reduce inflammation and heal the gut. Bone broths and glutamine are great additions to the diet.

5.       Rebalance: lifestyle and focus on reducing any stressors. Children need downtime and a safe space to relax.

Recognizing the significance of gut health when treating children not only sees improvement in their immediate health issues but also establishes a path for a robust and healthy future.

Supporting the digestive system with key nutrients, enzymes, probiotics, and prebiotics not only encourages a diverse and flourishing microbiota but also improves immune function, regulates behaviour and mood, and promotes physical resilience.

Whether your child has tummy troubles, poor immune function or has been diagnosed with a neurodevelopmental condition, the gut plays a crucial role in their overall health.

If you or you child have experienced any of the symptoms above and are looking for support to get your health back on track please book an enquiry call to learn how we can help.