The ADHD Brain on a Plate: The Food-Mood Connection
Welcome back to The Path to Peace Therapy Podcast. I’m Stephanie Buckley an AMFT Solution-Focused Therapist who specializes in ADHD, OCD, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder and narcissistic relationships. I'm also a mom to a now-thriving 22-year-old neurodivergent son, and I’ve been married for over three decades.
In this episode, we're diving into the powerful connection between what your child eats and their ability to focus, regulate their emotions, and manage ADHD symptoms. We'll explore why a brain that operates on a dopamine deficit is so vulnerable to the effects of sugar and artificial food dyes. You'll get a clear guide on the types of foods that can stabilize mood and improve focus, as well as strategies to help your child feel empowered by their choices, rather than deprived.
Key Concepts Discussed:
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The Dopamine Roller Coaster: The science behind why sugar and artificial dyes create a high-and-low cycle that leads to emotional and behavioral dysregulation.
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The Dangers of Food Dyes: Why red, yellow, and blue dyes can be particularly problematic for the ADHD brain, impacting impulse control and attention.
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Essential Brain Fuel: A breakdown of how lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, healthy fats, and hydration work together to provide sustained energy and support executive function.
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Empowering Your Child: How to talk to your child about their unique dietary needs in a way that builds confidence and ownership over their health.
If you want to go deeper, I do extended deep dives over on Patreon at Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast, where I cover subjects that are too complex or sensitive to fit into this main feed. You’ll find bonus episodes, scripts, and tools waiting for you there. Don’t forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify so you never miss an episode.Today we’re talking about something
Links & Resources:
• Learn more: ThePathToPeaceTherapy.com
• Work with me: In-person and virtual sessions available across California.
- Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @ThePathToPeaceTherapy
• Go deeper: Join me on Patreon for exclusive episodes and resources at Patreon.com/ThePathToPeaceTherapyPodcast.
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