Off the Beaten Path Alternative strategies to support traditional care

When typical pediatric treatments aren’t sufficient for children with complex needs, they may benefit from the addition of nontraditional professionals to their diagnostic team. Kids can thrive with alternative pathways to wellness. To learn more, consider the stories and resources below, explore the options, and discuss them with your family pediatrician.

Dietary Stories and Support

The Schenk Family

Gloria Schenk noticed that her 3-year-old son’s behavior took a turn for the worse when using MiraLAX for constipation. He was diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy and had very specific dietary needs due to Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) and oral sensory issues. X-rays showed the full length of his large intestine was blocked, causing pain and anger outbursts. Schenk did a deep dive into MiraLAX and discovered parent reports of behavioral issues connected with it. Although the FDA has only approved this osmotic laxative

for adults, her pediatrician insisted on its safety, and her husband was wary of the veracity of the online information his wife discovered.

The three agreed on a new strategy: They would ease up on the use of laxatives, if the family, under the care of a pediatric dietician, could focus on more natural ways to clear the intestinal blockage. What finally helped was a combination of warm, unsweetened apple cider, seafood snacks and a child’s kefir probiotic milk drink. They also added 1/8 of a teaspoon of bentonite clay to his first bite of food. Bentonite clay absorbs intestinal acids and toxins, which are expelled when the clay leaves the digestive tract. The combination greatly improved their son’s discomfort and the outbursts stopped.

The Nguyen Family

Jen Nguyen’s son was diagnosed with Celiac Disease, which is less common in Asian populations. Their family is Vietnamese, and she found that much of the dietary information available was geared toward American and

European diets. Many items the family ate had hidden wheat products: soy sauce, some rice noodles, marinades, vitamins—even oral care products contain wheat. Nguyen had to become a label “guru.” She found the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website www.eatright.org/for-kids. They provide culturally relevant information and advice on how to eat healthy on a budget. Using their search tool, she was able to find a dietitian near home.

Supplements

Dr. Riley Smith, a local Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and certified health and wellness coach, has adult patients with many symptoms, including anxiety, unexplained muscular pain and tension, food sensitivities, and inflammation. Dr. Smith uses a variety of functional lab tests to measure adrenal health, hormone levels, food sensitivities and metabolic wellness. He frequently works with an MD to determine paths to health for patients. Dr. Smith’s most commonly prescribed supplements include: Omega-3 fatty acids—essential fats that support heart, brain and metabolic health.

Vitamin D one of the most often prescribed supplements due to deficiency from excessive time spent indoors.

B vitamins essential for converting food into energy and support overall cell health.

Magnesium a mineral that promotes healthy muscles, nerves, bones and blood sugar levels and works as a natural laxative by drawing water into the bowels.

Glutathione a super antioxidant that can increase insulin sensitivity, break down free radicals, support immune function and help the liver and gallbladder deal with fat.

Below are other frequently prescribed supplements and the systems they may support. Be sure to discuss supplements with your child’s medical team; and that supplements are used according to weight and age guidelines.

NAC (N-acetyl cysteine) supports liver and lung health. Psychiatrists often recommend it for skin and hair picking associated with conditions like Prader-Willi Syndrome and Sensory Processing Disorder.

L-Cysteine is an amino acid that can boost the immune system in kids with metabolic issues and help with hair regrowth.

Pycnogenol is a super antioxidant used for urinary tract health, cell strength and skin regeneration for burns and cuts. Lion’s mane mushrooms and Cordyceps promote brain clarity and stress relief.

Chiropractic Care

When kids have breathing issues due to stress or allergies, consider seeking the support of a chiropractor (along with allergists and immunologists). Spinal adjustments in the thoracic region of the chest have been known to improve

breathing by taking pressure off the nerves and muscles that control lungs and diaphragm. While not a cure, chiropractic alignments are also known to 1) improve posture and create more room in the chest, so medicines that support oxygen intake are more effective; 2) relieve constant pain that may cause anxiety or depression; 3) alleviate painful physical symptoms that help kids better cope with stress associated with long-term pain or disability.

To explore further, talk to your family physician and a chiropractor. Sprout Family Chiropractic in San Diego specializes in pediatric care and neuro-divergent children with sensory sensitivities.

Important note: Kids with significant issues like Scoliosis and Kyphosis tend to have decreased lung size that should only be addressed by orthopedists and pulmonologists.

Sensory Fitness

Exercise is a key element in any child’s health, but children with physical disabilities, communication issues or significant sensory needs may struggle with team sports or typical play equipment. Studies show 20 minutes of rigorous movement each day boosts immunity, lowers the risk of heart disease and reduces depression. Fun, sensory-based play engages kids and keeps them moving.

Matt Sloan, certified occupational therapy assistant and owner of Sensory Fitness, trained parent volunteers at B.E.S.T. Step Forward in Imperial Valley to provide an exciting program that is adapted to the needs of individual children in a group setting. Using a variety of swings, obstacle courses, weighted elements, play equipment and music, Sensory Fitness coaches lead children through play-based exercises that increase independence, self-esteem, balance, critical thinking, core strength, cardiovascular health and sometimes even relaxation.

Coaches may use calming strategies for dysregulated children who need deep pressure and less noise. For children who lack core strength, coaches design games that develop trunk muscles while integrating fun activities that include limbs crossing the body’s center. Every activity can be adapted for physical disability or sensory needs, and music (known to help build neuropathways) is often integrated.

Strategies derived from professional, peer-reviewed research are the most valid and accurate way to supplement traditional therapies and medicine. Be sure to look for accreditation with the principal associated trade organization to ensure practitioners have a valid license. Always include your pediatrician or psychiatrist to avoid unintended drug and supplement interactions or inappropriate levels of exercise for your child’s condition. v

For more resources, visit the Dietary/Feeding and Integrative Approach to Therapies sections of this publication.

Emily Dolton is a San Diego business owner and mom of an adult with 22q 11.2 Deletion Syndrome.