A Functional Nutritionist’s Thoughts on Pediatric Inflammation
Inflammation is the body’s natural defense against infection or injury; but sometimes inflammation can be a sign of something more concerning. Functional medicine practitioner, Ravina Thomas explained that “acute inflammation is like when you scrape your knee and it gets red…chronic inflammation is when that response doesn’t shut off and it keeps the immune system on high alert.”. Acute inflammation is short-lived and necessary but a prolonged state can begin to interfere with growth, learning, and mood. Elevated inflammatory markers have been linked to behavioral changes, learning difficulties, and sleep disturbances (Miller & Raison, 2016). This link to behavioral changes was reaffirmed by Ravina, “sometimes parents don’t realize that irritability, constipation, or a child always having a runny nose can actually be a sign of inflammation.” Constant symptoms of inflammation can signal prolonged stress and other tolls being taken on the body.
Your diet is always to be considered. Ravina emphasized the importance of consuming foods with nutrient-dense options, explaining that deficiencies in magnesium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can impair the body’s ability to regulate inflammation effectively. Whole, unprocessed foods offer a broad range of nutrients that help restore balance.
The gut is another key player in inflammation management. Around 70% of the immune system resides in the gastrointestinal tract, meaning disruptions in gut microbiota can directly influence immune balance. Ravina discussed how something like a “leaky gut,” or increased intestinal permeability, may allow particles to enter the bloodstream, prompting an immune reaction that can develop into chronic inflammation. Maintaining gut health through a diet rich in fiber, probiotics, and diverse plant foods supports a healthier immune response.
Environmental Concerns: Is Mold or Dander Causing Allergies or Inflammation?
Environmental exposures also matter. It is advised to analyze an individual’s surroundings to see what could be the cause of recurring inflammation and allergies. Many common allergens such as pet dander could also be main contributors to an overreaction from your immune system according to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology.
As Ravina explained, “I see kids with inflammation just from environmental stressors, mold in the home, poor air quality, or even over-sanitizing so their immune systems don’t get trained.” Always consider cleaning bedsheets, removing pet dander, checking for mold, and clearing out common allergens that could be present in the home and causing inflammation as an immune response. Without clearing the stressors, constant exposure to these allergens will result in unwavering symptoms of inflammation.
Lifestyle Changes That Help Reduce Inflammation
Practical steps to reduce inflammation in children include prioritizing fresh fruits and vegetables, providing lean proteins and healthy fats, incorporating probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt and fermented vegetables, and encouraging consistent outdoor physical activity. Addressing potential environmental triggers like mold and limiting chemical exposures can further support the body’s natural defenses.
Ravina also reassured the importance of exposure to a diverse range of microbes early in life can also strengthen immune tolerance, while stating overly sterile environments may impair immune training. Encouraging safe outdoor play, reducing the use of harsh cleaning agents, and addressing indoor air quality can help minimize these risks.
Parents who understand how diet, gut health, and environmental factors intersect can take proactive measures to protect their child’s long-term well-being. While occasional inflammation is necessary for healing, chronic low-grade inflammation can quietly influence a child’s development. Recognizing and addressing it early allows for targeted changes that support both immediate comfort and future health. Remember that although holistic healing is useful, it is always recommended to speak to a medical professional if you feel there is a medical concern.
References
Miller, A. H., & Raison, C. L. (2016). The role of inflammation in depression: From evolutionary imperative to modern treatment target. Nature Reviews Immunology, 16(1), 22–34. https://doi.org/10.1038/nri.2015.5
Ravina Thomas. (2025). The Art of Parenting Ep.40]. In MissPoppins. Retrieved from https://misspoppins.io/podcast
American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology. (n.d.). Allergies and the environment. Retrieved from https://www.aaaai.org/conditions-and-treatments/allergies/allergy-environment
