Here are 20 takeaways from year 14 of the SPA Newsletter
1) Diet significantly impacts respiratory health – Reducing processed foods and increasing anti-inflammatory nutrients can help manage asthma and allergies.
2) Consistent sleep routines improve cognitive function – Children who maintain a regular sleep schedule have better emotional regulation, learning capacity, and immune health.
3) Environmental toxins affect child development – Reducing exposure to air pollutants, pesticides, and household chemicals lowers the risk of chronic illnesses and delayed learning.
4) Chronic stress in children is rising – Teaching mindfulness, outdoor play, and limiting academic overburden will support mental well-being. Over stressing a child leads to little in the positive realm. Align their learning with their passions and watch them thrive.
5) Processed foods are linked to behavior issues among so many issues – High sugar and ultra-processed diets may contribute to ADHD-like symptoms and mood instability.
6) Regular physical activity is critical for metabolic health – Daily movement reduces childhood obesity risk and improves long-term cardiovascular health. We as a society need to move more. Take the stairs, walk where you can and lead by example. Movement significantly improves glucose diisposal and insulin sensitivity.
7) Excess screen time is associated with sleep and attention problems – Limiting screens before bedtime and encouraging outdoor play improves sleep and focus. This is a paramount importance for the growth mindset of a child.
8) Vaccines remain the safest way to reduce preventable serious infectious illnesses – Long term studies remain the best way to assure the public of what we believe and we see win clinic everyday. I hope that RFK Jr is confirmed and pushes for more non biased vaccine study to assure the public.
9) Vitamin D insuff/deficiency is common in children – Ensuring adequate sun exposure first and as needed supplementation supports immune function and bone health. Be aware of skin color and the volume of sun needed to reach the vitamin D goal based on the same.
10) Seasonal illnesses can be mitigated with lifestyle adjustments – Proper nutrition, hydration, and sleep help prevent and manage common infections. The immune system functions well when nourished.
11) Poor oral hygiene contributes to systemic disease – Early dental care and reducing sugary foods prevent cavities and future health problems. Especially, cardiovascular disease.
12) Home air quality matters for children with allergies – HEPA filters, avoiding synthetic fragrances, and regular ventilation reduce indoor allergen exposure. We spend most of our time indoors now.
13) Food allergies and intolerance are increasing in children – Introducing diverse whole foods early and support gut health to help lower allergy risks. We recommend starting foods at four months of age now.
14) Hydration is key for focus and digestion – Dehydration is often mistaken for fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues in children. Children are made up of 70% water, thus hydration is key for function and outcome.
15) Sun protection should be year-round for those at risk – Proper sunscreen use and protective clothing reduce long-term skin damage risks based on skin color and exposure genetic risk. This is not a one size fits all reality. As in #9, to completely block the sun is to become vitamin D deficient. Learn the sun screen need based on your genetic risk. Visit DMinder - link
16) Parental stress directly affects children's mental health – Managing parental well-being leads to healthier emotional regulation in children. This is an oft missed reason for childhood mood dys-regulation as parents can be blind to their actions in the context of the child.
17) Reading aloud to children enhances brain development – Early exposure to books improves language skills and attention spans. This is a no brainer. Auditory education with parental time spent is a win win for a child. I am looking forward to bedtime reading with my future grand children.
18) Community engagement fosters resilience in children – Social support networks improve coping skills and reduce anxiety risks. Be involved in community events. The giving of self is so important for a child's understanding of the world.
19) Children benefit from structured but flexible routines – Predictability fosters security, but too much rigidity can increase anxiety. The carpenter and the gardener! More gardeners please.
20) The podcast guest variety has really blossomed on Dr. M’s Women and Children First. I am pleased that we can expand parent and provider education by bringing expert voices to discuss cutting-edge research and practical health strategies.
Prevention remains the key - children first,
Dr. M
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