Jennifer Giustra-Kozek – Nutritional & Integrative Interventions for Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, ODD and Depression: Effective Strategies to Heal the Gut and Ease the Mind

Outline

The Brain/Gut Connection: How Emotions are Governed by Our Intestinal System

• Link between nutritional deficiencies, neurodevelopmental delays and mental health disorders
• Latest evidence-based research
• Influence of gut microbes on mental health
• Genetic vulnerabilities and other early contributing factors
• Food sensitivities and special diets’ influence on our intestinal system and immune system

TREATMENT PLANS TO HEAL THE GUT, REDUCE INFLAMMATION AND IMPROVE BRAIN FUNCTION

ADHD Strategies for Improving…

• Memory, Mental Processing, Cognitive Function, Hyperactivity and Concentration
  • Natural brain stimulants
  • Brain training therapies
  • Fish oil and fatty acids
  • B vitamins
  • Processed foods and refined sugar

Anxiety Strategies for Improving…

• Obsessive/Compulsive Disorders, Worry and Fear
  • Beat anxiety with magnesium and probiotics/ fermented foods
  • Amino acids and their role
  • Treat intestinal upset, constipation and diarrhea
  • Dietary changes to support a healthy thyroid
  • The importance of grounding and mindfulness

ODD Strategies for Improving…

• Oppositional, Angry, Impulsive, Irritable and Anti-Social Behaviors
  • Natural ways to detox and cleanse the liver to reduce angry feelings
  • The effect of food intolerances and artificial food color and additives
  • A natural stimulant involved in proper nerve function
  • Nutritional requirements such as iron, zinc and B6
  • The impact of cholesterol levels on aggression and suicidal tendencies

Depression Strategies for Improving…

• Emotional Dysregulation
  • The role protein plays in the creation of neurotransmitters
  • Increase serotonin through dietary measures
  • Fight mood swings by stabilizing blood sugar
  • Foods and herbs to treat hypoglycemia
  • Herbs that are as effective as Prozac

Sleep Disturbances Strategies for Improving…

• Wakefulness and Restlessness
  • Treat cortisol levels and supporting adrenal functioning
  • Helping the pineal make melatonin
  • The importance of vitamin B6, B9, B12, amino acids tryptophan and GABA
  • Address negative food reactions
  • Helpful bedtime rituals

Sensory Processing Disorders (SPD) Strategies for Improving…

• Inappropriate Motor and Behavioral Responses
  • Treat SPD with essential brain minerals
  • Herbs, vitamins and minerals to address underlying adrenal fatigue
  • How metal toxicity may play a role
  • Integrative reflex therapies, massage, acupuncture and body work practices

Strategies for Nutritional and Behavioral Outcomes

• Getting our clients to buy into dietary changes and holistic approaches
• Persuading a picky eater to eat healthier
• Creative ways to take and/or give dietary supplements

Other Important Considerations

• Neurotransmitters responsible for learning and memory
• Genetic mutations: How they affect and what to do about them
• What to do about viruses and bacterial infections