Paediatrician warns your child’s moody behaviour could be a gut issue

Mood swings and tantrums in kids may not just be “bad behaviour.” Doctors explain how gut health can shape emotions, sleep, and focus. (Image: Pexels)

Children are used to throwing tantrums and being picky eaters; its nothing new. But the way experts are viewing them today, certainly is. Doctors now encourage parents not to dismiss it easily, because a child’s digestive system could be slowly influencing their emotions, behaviour, and mental well-being.

In recent years, science has uncovered a close relationship between the gut and the brain, linked through gut-brain axis. This is a two-way communication system where the health of one can directly affect the other.

“The child’s gut is home to trillions of microbes that don’t just help in digestion, but also produce key brain chemicals like serotonin,” explains Dr Shashank Trivedi, Consultant, Paediatrics and Neonatology, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Kanpur. "Serotonin plays a crucial role in mood regulation, sleep and even concentration", he adds.

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When the gut is in trouble, be it due to a diet heavy in processed foods, repeated antibiotic use, or not enough fibre, these microbes get thrown off balance. And as a result, children  may start showing signs of mood swings, anxiety, restlessness or even difficulty sleeping.

Diet, digestion and daily mood:

Many parents notice a pattern – children who struggle with recurring tummy issues also tend to be more irritable or emotionally unsettled. According to Dr Trivedi a disturbed gut environment can contribute to behavioural changes. Dr Trivedi says, "We often see emotional symptoms resolve once we address gut-related concerns." The solution, he says, lies in a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and probiotics – the kind you find in yoghurt or fermented foods. “And of course, don’t forget water. Hydration plays a crucial role in keeping the gut and the brain running smoothly,” informs Dr Trivedi

A healthy stomach doesn’t just help children digest lunch – it could be the key to better sleep, sharper focus, and a happier state of mind. “Gut health is often overlooked when we talk about mental well-being in children,” Dr Trivedi adds. “But nurturing it can support not only physical growth, but emotional stability too.” So next time your little one seems off-balance, don’t just ask how they’re feeling, maybe ask what they’ve been eating, too.

Also Read: Paediatrician tells you why 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding is the healthiest start for your newborn

FAQs on children's gut health

1. How does gut health affect children's mood and behaviour?
Gut health impacts children's mood and behaviour through the gut-brain axis, a communication system where the health of the gut directly affects brain functions.

2. What role do gut microbes play in a child's mental well-being?
Gut microbes help in digestion and produce key brain chemicals like serotonin, which is crucial for mood regulation, sleep, and concentration.

3. How can parents address gut-related concerns in children?
Parents can address gut-related concerns by ensuring a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and probiotics, and maintaining proper hydration.

4. Why is hydration important for gut health?
Hydration plays a crucial role in keeping the gut and brain functioning smoothly.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for a specific health diagnosis.