Dr Leila Masson, Sydney (2026)

06/01/2026

Every year, millions of tonnes of toxic chemicals are released into our world — many of them lingering for decades. These so-called “forever chemicals” don’t just disappear… they quietly impact developing brains and nervous systems.

Substances like lead, mercury, BPA, PFAS (non-stick chemicals), fluoride and alcohol are known to interfere with brain development — especially during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and early childhood.

What many parents don’t realise?
Air pollution and hidden mould exposure have been linked to anxiety, poor sleep, low mood and behavioural changes.
• Pollution drives inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain
• Mould (often after water damage or leaks) can trigger neuro-inflammation in genetically susceptible children
• In warm conditions, mould can grow within 48 hours of water exposure

Prevention matters — but so does support.
My role is to help families reduce toxic exposures, identify hidden risks in the home, and support the body’s natural detox pathways when exposure has already occurred.

The most important step? Stop the exposure first.
From there, we assess impact, calm inflammation, and support healing — gently and safely.
Because protecting brain health isn’t just about today… it’s about a lifetime.

31/12/2025

One of the most powerful (and often overlooked) gut compounds in children with PANS is butyrate — a short-chain fatty acid made by healthy gut bacteria when they digest fibre.

Butyrate plays a critical role in:
✔ Strengthening the gut lining
✔ Calming inflammation
✔ Regulating immune responses
✔ Supporting brain health via the gut–brain axis

Emerging research, including work by Professor Dale at Westmead Children’s Hospital, shows that butyrate can influence gene expression — helping switch down inflammatory pathways involved in immune-driven conditions like PANS.

In many children with PANS, we see:
🔍 Low butyrate levels on stool testing
🔥 High inflammation
🧠 A disrupted gut–brain connection

So, how do we support butyrate levels? Supplementation can help — even though absorption into the bloodstream is limited, the local gut effects can be significant. Clinically, many children show reduced PANS flares with careful butyrate support.

Food matters too. Supporting the microbiome to make its own butyrate is key:
• More vegetables & fibre
• Less sugar and ultra-processed foods
• Nourishing butyrate-producing bacteria

This is a powerful reminder that a calmer gut can help create a calmer brain — and that targeted gut support can make a meaningful difference for children with neuro-immune conditions.

Always individualise care and work with a qualified health professional.

23/12/2025

Wishing you and your loved ones a season filled with warmth, peace, and joy. As we gather with those we hold dear, may the laughter of children and the comfort of family bring light to your hearts.

This year has been especially challenging for our Sydney community after the recent tragic event at Bondi Beach. My heart goes out to everyone affected — especially the families and children who continue to find their way through shock, sadness, and uncertainty. In times like these, kindness, connection, and compassion matter more than ever. Together, let us nurture safety and hope for all children, and hold space for healing as we move forward as one resilient community.

As we reflect and come together this season, you may also wish to share a message of kindness via , supporting community healing and connection.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/community-services/one-mitzvah-for-bondi

May the holidays bring you comfort, strength, and gentle moments of joy.

With heartfelt wishes,
Dr Leila Masson

21/12/2025

What your child eats first thing can make or break their focus, mood, and energy for the whole day.
Many “kid-friendly” cereals + sweet spreads send blood sugar soaring… then crashing — leading to irritability, hunger, and scattered concentration by mid-morning.

Research shows that swapping sugary cereals for a slow-release breakfast (like oatmeal) helps kids stay calmer, more focused, and better regulated.

Try starting the day with:
🥣 Oats + nuts + seeds
🍓 Fresh fruit
💧 Plenty of water

A balanced breakfast means a calmer brain and a smoother start. Type FOOD in the comments to get more tips about kids' nutrition.

13/12/2025

Is your child waking at night with coughs or restless sleep?
The culprit might be closer than you think — their mattress.

Moisture from night sweats or bedwetting can soak into a mattress and become the perfect breeding ground for mold, which can trigger coughing, allergies, and disrupted sleep.

Check under the covers:
Flip your child’s mattress and look for dark spots or musty smells. If you find any, it’s time for a change.

Pro tip: Choose a natural latex mattress — it’s resistant to mould and dust mites, helping your little one breathe easier and sleep soundly again.

Because better sleep = better health 💚

07/12/2025

Can CBD help children with PANS?

Many parents are surprised to learn that THC-free CBD oil can be a gentle, supportive option for kids struggling with PANS symptoms — especially anxiety, OCD-type behaviours, sleep issues, tics, and emotional overwhelm.

CBD (derived from the h**p plant and non-psychoactive) has been shown to calm inflammation in the brain and support the body’s endocannabinoid system — the network that helps regulate mood, sleep, immunity, and stress responses.

Research from leading paediatric neurologists, including Prof Dale (Westmead Children’s Hospital), shows CBD can down-regulate inflammatory genes like IL-6 and TNF-α — essentially turning down the “inflammation volume” at its source.

Many families report their children becoming calmer, sleeping better, and having fewer flares when using high-quality, THC-free CBD under medical guidance.
And yes — in Australia, CBD can be prescribed by qualified clinicians.

If your child is struggling with PANS or neuroinflammatory symptoms, know that gentle, evidence-informed options do exist.

Comment PANS to access my mini-masterclass.

30/11/2025

Did you know even the tiniest light in your child’s room can block melatonin production and disturb deep sleep?

Creating true darkness signals the brain it’s time to rest—leading to better, longer, and more restorative sleep.

Try blackout curtains or a fun sleep mask for kids (they love them!).
If a nightlight is needed, choose red light—it won’t disrupt melatonin.

A good night’s sleep builds stronger bodies, sharper minds, and happier mornings. Type SLEEP in the comments to get more tips on sleep and ADHD

22/11/2025

Weighted blankets and sensory tools can be game-changers for kids with ADHD or sensory sensitivities. The gentle pressure activates calming pathways in the nervous system, helping children feel grounded and secure. Start with just a few minutes to see if your child enjoys it—never force it. Even a small weighted toy (like my clinic’s koala!) can bring comfort and calm. 💙

Type SLEEP in the comments to get more tips on sleep and ADHD.

16/11/2025

Sydney Practitioners — Join Us!

I’m excited to be speaking at a full-day professional education event on Sunday, 30 November, designed exclusively for AHPRA-registered healthcare practitioners.

Learn from Australia’s leading experts in integrative paediatrics — including paediatricians AProf Daryl Efron, Dr Orit Holtzman, nutritionist Sonya Reynolds, yours truly and more — as we dive into brain development, paediatric epilepsy, behavioural and developmental disorders, nutrition, supplements, and medicinal cannabis.

What you’ll gain:
• Evidence-based, practical tools
• Real-world case studies
• Multidisciplinary insights
• 8 hours CPD
• A chance to connect with passionate practitioners

📅 30 November 2025
🎟️ Tickets: Non-Member $495 | Member $375 | Nurse Member $325

Seats are limited — register now and join us for a powerful day of learning and collaboration.

Link in bio or register here: https://events.humanitix.com/anzccp-integrative-management-for-the-paediatric-population-sydney

09/11/2025

Did you know that if your child never feels hungry, constipation might be the hidden cause?

When kids don’t pass a healthy daily bowel movement (think smooth, banana-shaped), their tummy can stay full of stool. This doesn’t just block appetite—it can cause bloating, discomfort, irritability, and even worsen behaviour because of the chemicals gut bacteria release.

Constipation is up to 3x more common in children with ADHD, and it impacts so much more than digestion.

The good news? Small changes can make a big difference:
🥝 Add an extra portion of fruit (like kiwi)
🥗 Boost fibre with chia, flax, LSA, or legumes
💧 Make sure they drink enough water
🍲 Swap some meat meals for beans, chickpeas, or tofu

When the gut feels better, kids feel brighter, calmer, and hungrier for real food again.

Type FOOD in the comments to get more tips on Nutrition and AHDH

03/11/2025

Is your child restless at night or waking up frequently? One common cause that parents often overlook is pinworms. These tiny parasites crawl to the a**s at night to lay eggs, which leads to itching and disturbed sleep.

A healthy gut means fewer pinworm infections, better immunity, and improved overall well-being., seeds, and whole grains. Cutting down sugar and processed snacks can help build a stronger, more resilient microbiome.

At home, wash bedding, pajamas, and underwear in hot water, and keep fingernails short to prevent eggs from spreading.

But here’s the bigger picture: if your child gets pinworms repeatedly, it may point to an imbalanced gut microbiome. Diets high in sugar and processed foods make the gut more vulnerable.

Support your child’s gut health with plenty of fiber-rich foods—fruits, veggies, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Cutting down sugar and processed snacks can help build a stronger, more resilient microbiome.

A healthy gut means fewer pinworm infections, better immunity, and improved overall well-being. Type SLEEP in the comments to get my top tips on sleep and ADHD.

27/10/2025

Did you know that artificial colours and preservatives can make ADHD symptoms worse?

Research shows that food colourings like Tartrazine (Yellow 102) and preservatives such as Potassium Sorbate (202) are linked to hyperactivity, mood swings, and sleep issues, especially in sensitive kids.

Here’s why:

🔹 Colours like Tartrazine can trigger inflammation in the brain and release histamine, which disrupts neurotransmitters tied to focus, emotions, and regulation.
🔹 These additives can also deplete zinc, a key nutrient already low in many kids with ADHD, and essential for healthy dopamine and serotonin levels.
🔹 Preservatives like Potassium Sorbate can damage mitochondria, increase oxidative stress, and disrupt the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation and “leaky gut.”

Everything is connected — the gut, brain, nutrients, mitochondria, and inflammation. Choosing foods free from artificial additives can make a powerful difference in your child’s focus, mood, sleep, and overall well-being.

Parent tip: Read labels carefully. Healthier, additive-free options are now easier to find than ever!

Type FOOD in the comments to get more tips on Nutrition and ADHD

Dr Leila Masson

06/01/2026

31/12/2025

23/12/2025

21/12/2025

13/12/2025

07/12/2025

30/11/2025

22/11/2025

16/11/2025

09/11/2025

03/11/2025

27/10/2025

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