Lara welcomes Vicky Finlayson ,from the Healthy Happy Unicorn, to delve into the significant impact of gluten and dairy on children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism, ADHD, and OCD. They discuss the physiological effects of these foods, including gut permeability and immune system dysregulation, and emphasise the importance of dietary changes for healing and symptom reduction. Vicky shares practical strategies for parents to transition their children away from gluten and dairy, addressing common concerns and misconceptions. The conversation highlights the transformative potential of a tailored diet, encouraging parents to focus on whole foods and empowering them to make informed choices for their children's health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Impact of Gluten and Dairy: Gluten and dairy can negatively affect children with neurodevelopmental disorders by triggering gut issues, immune responses, and inflammation, which can lead to symptoms associated with conditions like autism and ADHD.

Gut Health Connection: There is a strong link between gut health and neurodevelopmental disorders. Issues such as leaky gut, caused by gluten and dairy, can lead to toxins entering the bloodstream and triggering immune reactions that may affect brain function.

Individualised Dietary Approaches: Transitioning away from gluten and dairy should be tailored to each child's needs and family circumstances. Strategies can range from a complete removal of these foods to gradual substitutions, depending on the child's adaptability and the family's readiness.

Long-Term Benefits of Dietary Changes: While some parents may not see immediate changes after removing gluten and dairy, it is essential to allow time for the body to heal. Full benefits may take several months as the proteins leave the system and overall health improves.

BEST MOMENTS

"We know that gut issues are rife in the population of children that we see. The two go hand in hand." - Vicky

"Gluten and dairy break down into specific peptides in the body, and they leak through the blood-brain barrier." - Vicky

"If you're listening to this and your child is only eating gluten and dairy, that's very normal." - Lara

SOCIAL/IMPORTANT LINKS

https://www.tiktok.com/@braindevelopmentuk

https://www.instagram.com/braindevelopmentuk/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larakelly/

https;//www.braindevelopment.co.uk

https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/⁠

⁠https://thehappyhealthyunicorn.com/1%3A1-virtual-consultations⁠

HOST BIO
Lara Barnes a successful woman in tech found herself managing behavioural, learning and speech difficulties with her son, she learn functional neurology and how to change the brain to correct his symptoms and build his left brain. The Building the Brain Podcast is for parents needing to understand how to help their children and show them what can be done to change little lives to allow them to shine and be their best version.

GUEST BIO

 Vicky is mum to her remarkable autistic daughter, Rose. With a BSc in Human Biology and a deep fascination with the human body, she was originally on track to become an NHS dietitian. When Rose’s needs became more complex, everything changed. Vicky immersed herself in learning about autism, neurodevelopment, and root-cause healing, a compassionate, whole-person approach that simply made more sense. From this journey, The Happy Healthy Unicorn was born, a space grounded in both science and heart, created for families seeking real answers and hope. Rose’s transformation inspired Vicky’s mission to help others. Combining science, lived experience, and deep empathy, she now guides families on their own healing journeys, empowering them to restore balance, support development, and unlock their children’s true potential.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. ⁠https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/⁠