The link between diet and mental health is known – and is  being explored in the media.

I have noted in the course of my work that children are increasingly eating a very limited range of foods – mainly what we call “beige” foods (pasta, bread, biscuits, cakes), which do not offer the essential nutrients for the development of the brain and the body. Fish oils, vegetables, vitamins, protein, fibre are in short supply.

Lunch boxes at school often contain little food of nutritional value.  The healthy options of raw veg, fruit, cheese, eggs, meat, wholemeal bread or pasta, are absent and the child fills up on biscuits, tubes of sweetened yoghurt, processed cheese straws, chocolate bars etc.

School dinners are shunned by many children - and many of those that do have them, avoid the vegetables.

The impact on the child's mental development and physical well-being is huge. Tooth decay is common in our young children.

I found these sources of information helpful: -

https://zoe.com/learn/podcast-ultra-processed-foods-damage-your-brain

"Brain Energy", by C.M. Palmer, M.D., BenBella Books, Dallas, USA 2022

SENDCo's can refer the family for the help of a Specialist Nurse who will advise as to how to rebalance the child, introducing a healthier balance of foods. Supplements can go some way towards rebalancing the deficits caused by a very restricted diet.

If you would like to talk over any concerns you may have regarding your child's diet, or other sensory needs, please contact me at info@askasendco.co.uk