05/05/2025
True for New Zealand and other western processesed diets
The Standard Australian Diet (SAD) is sadly filled with processed foods, additives, and empty calories. While it may fill bellies, it’s lacking the essentials that support growing brains and bodies — vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, and fibre. Instead, it delivers too much sugar, unhealthy fats, and preservatives, which can worsen anxiety, hyperactivity, and sleep issues in kids.
Many children today already have low levels of key nutrients like glutathione and zinc, which help detoxify the body. Additives like Yellow 102, Potassium Sorbate 202, and Propionic Acid 280 (common in breads and snacks) are linked to hyperactivity, irritability, and poor focus. They’re proven to do harm — with zero benefit beyond extending shelf life.
💡 We weren’t made to eat this way.
Studies show that anti-inflammatory, plant-based, and Mediterranean diets benefit both physical and mental health. Yet only 20% of Australians meet the minimum veggie intake. We need to change this!
A diverse microbiome is key to calm immune and nervous system. The Western diet — alongside antibiotics, reflux meds, formula use, and unnecessary interventions — disrupts gut health. What helps?
👉 Vegetables, fermented foods, probiotics, breastfeeding, and avoiding unnecessary meds.
Nutrient deficiencies also impact sleep, mood, and behaviour. Look out for:
🩸 Iron/B12 → Sleep onset issues, restless legs, irritability
💤 Magnesium → Nightmares, night terrors, anxiety
🌿 Zinc → ADHD, low mood
💙 Omega-3 → Behaviour, mood, sleep
✨ Nutrition is a pillar of health. Let’s make it a focus in every health conversation.
Blog: https://www.drleilamasson.com/blog/calm-children