Insufficient or suboptimal vitamins and mineralsĬonsider the levels of these nutrients and their possible contribution to low-mood in children. As a result of these factors, poor or imbalanced methylation may affect mood. Low folate and vitamin B12 – important cofactors in the methylation cycle – are also associated with low mood. Methylation is an important biochemical process in the body, part of which produces S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) an important methyltransferase which is utilised for neurotransmitter synthesis. Consider antimicrobial and antiparasitic herbs that are suitable for children such as calendula, cinnamon, echinacea, elderberry, garlic and thyme. Research suggests an association between streptococcal infections and neuropsychiatric disorders such as acute obsessive-compulsive disorder an anxiety-mood disorder in children. This is called paediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections or PANDAS.20 Other infections may also impact mood and may therefore be necessary to review possible infections. ![]() Supporting effective histamine metabolism may be beneicial to balancing histamine levels. Studies suggest there is also an association between allergies, low-grade inlammation and depression. Abnormal histamine levels have been associated with brain inlammation and mood disorders. ![]() Lemon balm, passionlower and chamomile may be beneicial to assist with sleep.įood intolerances, immune system and inlammationįood intolerances may increase histamine levels. Other important considerations may be reviewing levels of histamine and glutamine in the diet, levels of stress and bedtime routine. Insuficient or poor quality sleep is also linked to gastrointestinal disturbances, poor blood glucose regulation and varying nutrient levels (e.g. Sleep problems amongst children is simultaneously part of the criteria for, and a contributing factor to, mood disturbances. A diet high in red meat, takeaway, reined foods and sugary foods are associated with depressive symptoms while a diet rich in fruit, vegetables, ish and wholegrains is protective against these symptoms. Studies suggest that consuming a diet high in reined carbohydrates is associated with mood changes including depression. Sugar dysregulation may be associated with anxiety and depression. Probiotics and herbs such as chamomile, lemon balm, slippery elm, licorice, fennel, and St Mary’s thistle may be beneficial. It is inluenced by the immune system and is often linked to mood concerns such as depression and anxiety.Ĭhildren may complain of stomach aches associated with mood concerns and it is important to consider the impact of stress and mood on the gut. The gut-brain axis describes the complex bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain and includes the interaction of the microbiome of the gut in this process. ![]() There may be many underlying aspects why a child may experience anxiety, depression or changes to mood that should be explored. Some of these symptoms may be intense and require review by a qualiied specialist. Symptoms may include: sadness, guilt, loss of interest in activities, sleep disturbances, changes in appetite, decreased energy, dificulty concentrating, hypersensitivity to failure, irritability or aggression. What do mood changes look like in a child?Ĭhildren may have thoughts and feelings that are dificult to articulate, so it is helpful to look for signs of mood issues. A holistic and functional approach can be helpful to understanding the underlying cause of any changes in mood and how you might address these. Sometimes, these feelings can be more intense and dificult to manage. ![]() While often very adaptable, children are just as vulnerable to mood imbalances as adults.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |