Sugar and Brain Health: How Diet Shapes Kids’ Focus, Mood & Microbiome | Dr. Elisa Song

Are you unknowingly feeding your kids foods that sabotage their gut health, disrupt hormones, and even affect brain performance? In this eye‑opening conversation, I sit down with pediatric functional medicine expert Dr. Elisa Song to uncover the hidden ingredients and environmental exposures shaping your child’s mood, focus, immune health, and long‑term development. From sugar and brain function to delayed puberty in boys, autoimmune warning signs, and the microbiome’s role in behavior, this is a must‑listen for every parent who wants to protect and optimize their child’s health. This is our second episode with Dr. Elisa Song, so be sure to check out our first interview where we talked extensively about strategies for picky eaters https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/child-gut-health/ This episode is brought to you by:  Fygg Toothpaste Want an oral-care routine that strengthens enamel and nourishes your mouth’s microbiome? Fygg’s fluoride-free, prebiotic toothpaste uses nano-hydroxyapatite to support remineralization and sensitivity relief—without the burn, foam, or harsh essential oils. Developed by functional dentists Dr. Mark Burhenne and Dr. Staci Whitman, it’s crafted with clean, microbiome-friendly ingredients you can feel great about.  Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code DRBRIGHTEN for 15% off of their products (both one-time and subscription) Shop now → https://fygg.sjv.io/ragbBv  Dr. Brighten Essentials Want science-backed supplements formulated by a doctor who actually understands women’s health? 🌿 At Dr. Brighten Essentials, every product is crafted to support your hormones, boost your energy, and help you feel your best—inside and out. From targeted nutrients for glowing skin to essentials that fuel your daily vitality, you’ll get the highest-quality ingredients in forms your body can truly use. Exclusive for podcast listeners: Use code POD15 at checkout for 15% off your order. Shop now → https://drbrightenessentials.com Sunlighten Saunas Want a gentle, science-forward way to sweat, recover, and unwind?  At Sunlighten, infrared saunas deliver soothing heat that supports relaxation, muscle recovery, and deep, comfortable sweating—without the stifling temps of traditional saunas. With low-EMF tech and options for near, mid, and far infrared, you get a calm, restorative session tailored to your goals. Exclusive for podcast listeners: use the code DRBRIGHTEN to save up to $1,400 on your sauna Shop now → https://get.sunlighten.com/drbrighten  Support our sponsors and help keep this show free and packed with amazing guests! 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned in This Episode:  Dr. Elisa Song’s website https://www.healthykidshappykids.com Dr. Elisa Song’s Book Healthy Kids, Happy Kids: An Integrative Pediatrician’s Guide to Whole Child Resilience https://amzn.to/3EsfeuI https://drbrighten.com/  for nutrition, hormone, and fertility support  Dr. Brighten Essentials Women's Probiotic for mom’s microbiome https://drbrightenessentials.com/products/womens-probiotic  Tiny Health– gut microbiome testing https://www.tinyhealth.com/ Episode with dentist Stacey Whitman https://drbrighten.com/podcasts/mouth-breathing-in-children/ about oral health/the oral microbiome ⭐ Follow Dr. Elisa Song: 💻 Website: https://www.healthykidshappykids.com 📸  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthykids_happykids/ 🟦 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrElisaSongMD/ 👩🏻‍⚕️Follow Dr. Jolene Brighten: 💻 Website: https://www.drbrighten.com 📸  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjolenebrighten 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drjolenebrighten 🧵Threads: https://www.threads.net/@drjolenebrighten 🌟 Grab my free hormone friendly recipes here! https://drbrighten.com/hormonekit/ 👉 If you found this episode valuable, drop a comment below to tell us what you loved most, and share it with a friend! Let’s spread the knowledge. 💬✨ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices