Integrative Pediatric Supplement Recommendations
Welcome to Plant MD, your trusted partner in complementary therapies for pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders and emotional + mental health. Dr. Machado is dedicated to providing evidence-based guidance to support your child’s optimal well-being and resilience. Here, we review five essential supplements that can play a pivotal role in supporting kids brain health: Vitamin D, Magnesium Glycinate, Probiotics, Melatonin, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids
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1. Vitamin D
Overview: Vitamin D is crucial for bone health and immune function. Recent studies highlight its importance in brain development and mental health.
Benefits:
• Neurodevelopment: Adequate levels of vitamin D during early childhood are linked to better neurodevelopmental outcomes
• Mental Health: Vitamin D deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attentiondeficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Immune Support: Vitamin D plays a role in modulating the immune system, potentially reducing the risk of infections and autoimmune diseases
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2. Magnesium Glycinate
Overview: Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in numerous biochemical
processes, including nerve function and muscle relaxation. Magnesium Glycinate is a highly absorbable form of magnesium.
Benefits:
• Mental Health: Magnesium deficiency is linked to anxiety and depression. Supplementation can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and improve mood
• Sleep Quality: Magnesium Glycinate is known for its calming effects and can improve sleep quality, which is essential for cognitive function and emotional regulation in children
• Neurodevelopment: Magnesium supports neurotransmitter function and cognitive development, making it beneficial for children with ADHD and other neurodevelopmental disorders
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3. Probiotics
Overview: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is increasingly recognized for its role in mental health and neurodevelopment.
Benefits:
• Gut-Brain Axis: The gut microbiome communicates with the brain, influencing mood and behavior. Probiotics can improve gut health and, consequently, mental well-being
• Immune Function: A healthy gut microbiome supports immune function, reducing the risk of infections and inflammation that can affect neurodevelopment
• Behavioral Health: Probiotics have shown promise in reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and autism-related behaviors
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4. Melatonin
Overview: Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles. Supplementation can be beneficial for children with sleep disorders, which are common in neurodevelopmental and mental health conditions.
Benefits:
• Sleep Regulation: Melatonin can help regulate sleep patterns, improving overall sleep quality and duration
• Behavioral Health: Improved sleep can lead to better daytime behavior, mood regulation, and cognitive performance in children with ADHD and Autism spectrum disorder
• Safety: Melatonin is generally considered safe for short-term use in children when used under medical supervision
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5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Overview: Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, are essential for brain health and development. They are found in high concentrations in fish oil.
Benefits:
• Cognitive Function: Omega-3s are crucial for brain development and function, supporting learning, memory, and cognitive performance
• Mental Health: Supplementation with omega-3s has been shown to reduce symptoms of ADHD, depression, and anxiety in children
• Neurodevelopment: Omega-3s play a role in the formation of neuronal connections and plasticity, which are vital for neurodevelopmental health
In Conclusion
At Plant MD, we are committed to supporting your child’s health and wellbeing through evidence-based recommendations. Incorporating these
essential supplements—Vitamin D, Magnesium Glycinate, Probiotics, Melatonin, and Omega-3 Fatty Acids—can provide significant benefits for
pediatric neurodevelopmental disorders, mental health, and overall resilience. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new
supplement regimen to ensure it is safe and appropriate for your child’s specific needs. Click here to visit Dr. Machado’s medicine cabinet with 5 best
supplements for kids brain health.
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2. Autism Research: “Vitamin D deficiency and autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review.” Autism Research, 2019. Link.
3. Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry: “Vitamin D levels in children with ADHD: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Journal of
Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 2020. Link.
4. Clinical Immunology: “The role of vitamin D in immune function and autoimmunity.” Clinical Immunology, 2019. Link.
5. Journal of Anxiety Disorders: “Magnesium deficiency and its role in anxiety and depression.” Journal of Anxiety Disorders, 2008. Link.
6. Nutrients: “Magnesium intake and its association with anxiety and depression in adults.” Nutrients, 2018. Link.
7. Sleep Medicine Reviews: “The effects of magnesium supplementation on sleep quality: A systematic review.” Sleep Medicine Reviews, 2018. Link.
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9. Gut Microbes: “The gut-brain axis: How gut microbiota influence brain function and behavior.” Gut Microbes, 2020. Link.
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13. Pediatrics: “Melatonin for sleep disorders in children with autism spectrum disorders: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.” Pediatrics, 2015. Link.
14. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine: “The safety and efficacy of melatonin in children with sleep disorders.” Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 2019. Link.
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16. Sleep Medicine Reviews: “Melatonin use in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis.” Sleep Medicine Reviews, 2013. Link.
17. Frontiers in Human Neuroscience: “The role of omega-3 fatty acids in neurodevelopment and neuroprotection.” Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, 2017. Link.
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19. Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry: “Omega-3 supplementation in children with ADHD: A randomized controlled trial.” Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, 2017. Link.
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