– Dr. Auerbach is an Oregon State Board Certified Naturopathic Physician treating acute and chronic health complaints for the whole family.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the proportion of teens reporting that they frequently feel anxious or depressed has doubled in the last 30 years. Seven percent of children between the ages of 3 and 17 have been diagnosed with anxiety, and the average age of onset is just 11. Sadly, some authorities believe that anxiety is underdiagnosed in children. While a number of factors contribute to this issue, research highlights the potential link between gut health and mental well-being in children.
Understanding the Gut-Mood Connection
The gut microbiome, comprising a vast array of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, plays a crucial role in overall health, including mood regulation. This complex ecosystem primarily resides in the large intestines and influences the production of neurotransmitters such as GABA, serotonin, and dopamine, essential for maintaining stable moods. Notably, GABA acts as the body’s natural anti-anxiety agent.
Nurturing the Microbiome for Mental Wellness
When kids regularly consume prebiotic-rich foods such as berries, apples, garlic, onions, sweet potatoes, pears, and kiwis their digestive system is able to develop a strong foundation for good gut health. This foundation supports healthier digestion and promotes a robust immune system – and most importantly; a healthy microbiome by providing fuel for beneficial gut bacteria. Similarly, selecting probiotic supplements containing specific strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Bifidobacterium infantis has shown promise in reducing anxiety levels, although consultation with a healthcare professional is advisable.
Incorporating fermented foods like kefir, yogurt, and miso into a child’s diet introduces beneficial live flora, promoting a diverse microbiome and supporting digestive health. By minimizing processed foods and prioritizing fresh fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates a microbial balance can be achieved.
Sterilizing Hand Soaps Can Be Detrimental to Gut Health
Sterilizing products often contain antimicrobial agents that kill bacteria, both harmful and beneficial. The gut flora, or microbiota, consists of a diverse community of bacteria that play crucial roles in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system regulation. When these beneficial bacteria are killed off, it can lead to imbalances in the microbiota. Avoiding excessive use of sterilizing products preserves beneficial gut flora, while embracing natural cleaning alternatives and promoting handwashing with soap and water ensures hygiene without compromising the microbiome.
Get Outdoors
Encouraging outdoor activities, such as mud play, provides children with numerous benefits, including exposure to beneficial bacteria like Mycobacterium vaccae. This exposure contributes to various aspects of their well-being including mood enhancement.
Research suggests that exposure to this bacterium can stimulate the release of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter known for its mood-regulating effects. Serotonin plays a crucial role in promoting feelings of happiness and well-being, thereby enhancing children’s mood and overall emotional state.
Embracing Holistic Approaches for Optimal Well-being
By implementing these naturopathic strategies, parents can proactively promote digestive health and manage childhood anxiety. Small lifestyle changes, coupled with a focus on nurturing the gut microbiome, can have profound effects on a child’s mental and emotional well-being. A holistic approach centered on gut health can revolutionize the management of anxiety and other mental health conditions in children.
Naturopathic Family Medicine
Naturopathic medicine focuses on prevention, and this includes routine check-ups and health screenings. Scheduling a visit to a naturopathic doctor can ensure that any underlying health concerns are addressed promptly. These visits also provide an opportunity for parents to discuss nutrition, supplements, and any specific health goals for their child.
Appointments with Dr. Auerbach are available by calling 541-330-0334, email info@hawthorncenter.com or visit our online request form.