Evidence

Is Early Screen Time Linked to Autism Later in Childhood?

Read time: 4 minutes With screens now part of everyday life, even for infants, many parents and providers wonder: does screen time during early development pose long-term risks? A new study published in JAMA Pediatrics sheds light on the connection between early screen exposure and the risk of autism at age 12. Screen Time and Neurodevelopment: A Closer Look at Early Risks From soothing babies with YouTube videos to toddlers tapping through tablet games, screen exposure is happening earlier than ever. While technology offers convenience and entertainment, researchers continue to explore how this early exposure might impact long-term developmental outcomes. One such concern is autism spectrum disorder (ASD), a condition characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and behavior. A recent longitudinal study investigated whether

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP May 5, 2025

Omega-3s and Eczema in Kids: A Nutritional Approach to Calming Inflammation?

Read time: 3 minutes Could a daily dose of fish oil help soothe childhood eczema? A new randomized clinical trial suggests that omega-3 fatty acids—alongside gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and vitamin D—may significantly reduce atopic dermatitis symptoms in young children. Let’s unpack the findings and what they mean for managing eczema with nutrition. Understanding Atopic Dermatitis and the Inflammation Connection Atopic dermatitis (AD), often called eczema, is one of the most common chronic inflammatory skin conditions in children. It’s marked by dry, itchy, inflamed skin—and for many families, it’s a persistent, disruptive part of daily life. While the causes are multifactorial, inflammation plays a central role. Researchers have long explored ways to reduce inflammation from the inside out. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oil, are

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP April 21, 2025

Magnesium & the Mind: Uncovering the Link Between Magnesium Deficiency and Autism

Read time: 3 minutes Magnesium plays a critical role in brain function, yet it’s often overlooked in conversations around neurodevelopment. A recent study shines light on a potential connection between low serum magnesium levels and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). What does the science say—and what might it mean for the future of autism research and care? Magnesium’s Role in Brain Health Magnesium is more than just a mineral; it’s a biochemical multitasker involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions, many of which support neurological development, synaptic function, and immune regulation. Despite its importance, magnesium deficiency remains surprisingly common in both children and adults. Now, new research is suggesting that this “silent shortfall” may have deeper implications—especially for children with autism spectrum disorder. A peer-reviewed study published

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP April 14, 2025

Zinc and the Brain: A Nutritional Key to Inflammation and Autism Risk?

Read time: 3 minutes Astrocytes—once considered mere support cells in the brain—are now emerging as major players in neurodevelopment and inflammation. A new study uncovers how zinc, an essential trace mineral, helps regulate astrocyte activity via the PAF receptor pathway. Could zinc deficiency during development silently tip the scales toward autism and other brain-based disorders? Let’s dive into the science. Unlocking Zinc’s Role in Brain Inflammation Zinc isn’t just good for your immune system—it’s also a crucial regulator in the brain. Astrocytes, the brain’s caretakers, help shape neural circuits, support synapses, and fine-tune inflammation. But when astrocytes become overactivated (often due to inflammatory triggers), they can disrupt healthy brain development—something that’s been linked to neurodevelopmental conditions like autism spectrum disorder (ASD). In a recent study

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP April 7, 2025

New Research Links Trace Element Imbalances to Autism

Read time: 2 minutes A growing body of research suggests that trace elements play a crucial role in neurodevelopment. A recent study sheds light on how imbalances in zinc, selenium, and copper levels may contribute to autism spectrum disorder (ASD) through oxidative stress and inflammation. Autism and Trace Elements: A Fresh Look at the Latest Findings For those of us working in pediatric integrative medicine, we often focus on gut health, inflammation, and nutrient optimization when supporting children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). But sometimes, new research shifts our understanding of underlying mechanisms—like the role of trace elements in brain function. A recent case-control study did just that. It examined serum levels of zinc (Zn), selenium (Se), and copper (Cu) in children with ASD compared

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP March 31, 2025

PFAS and Maternal Health: A Silent Driver of Inflammation?

Read time: 3 minutes Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are persistent environmental pollutants linked to various health concerns. A recent study sheds light on their alarming connection to inflammation during pregnancy, particularly among African American women. How do these chemicals affect maternal and fetal health, and what can be done to mitigate the risks? Let’s explore the latest scientific findings. Unveiling PFAS and Their Impact on Pregnancy PFAS are synthetic chemicals found in everyday products like food packaging, nonstick cookware, and personal care items. Their persistence in the environment means they can accumulate in human blood, with growing evidence of their ability to cross the placenta and impact fetal development. A study conducted within the Atlanta African American Maternal-Child Cohort analyzed PFAS levels in pregnant

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP March 24, 2025

The Silent Threat: Microplastics in the Human Brain

Read time: 3 minutes Microplastics are an ever-growing environmental concern, but recent research reveals a more alarming issue—their accumulation in human brains. How do these tiny particles infiltrate our most vital organ, and what are the potential health implications? Let’s explore the latest scientific findings. Unveiling Microplastics in the Brain Microplastics, tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have long been detected in oceans, soil, and even the food we eat. However, a recent study published in Nature Medicine has confirmed their presence in human brain tissue, raising serious questions about long-term health effects. This research analyzed postmortem samples of human liver, kidney, and brain tissues collected from 2016 to 2024. The results? Microplastics were found in all three organs, with the highest

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP March 17, 2025

The Potential of Herbal Medicine in Treating Pediatric Adenoidal Hypertrophy

Read time: 3 minutes Enlarged adenoids can cause chronic nasal congestion, snoring, and sleep disturbances in children. While conventional treatments such as nasal steroids and surgery are common, could herbal medicine provide an effective and safe complementary option? Let’s explore recent findings. The Role of Herbal Medicine in Managing Pediatric Adenoidal Hypertrophy Adenoidal hypertrophy, or the enlargement of the adenoids, is a common issue in children and can lead to breathing difficulties, mouth breathing, and sleep disruption. Standard treatments typically include nasal corticosteroids, antibiotics when necessary, and in severe cases, surgery (adenoidectomy). However, as interest in integrative medicine grows, researchers are investigating how Chinese herbal medicine might offer additional benefits when used alongside conventional approaches. A recent meta-analysis sheds light on how herbal medicine—alone or

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP March 10, 2025

Exploring the Role of Chinese Herbal Medicine in Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis Management

Read time: 3 minutes Pediatric allergic rhinitis can significantly impact a child’s quality of life. While conventional treatments are commonly used, new research highlights how combining Chinese herbal medicine with standard care might improve symptom relief, reduce recurrence, and enhance overall safety. A New Approach to Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis: The Role of Chinese Herbal Medicine For pediatricians and integrative healthcare providers, managing allergic rhinitis in children typically involves using antihistamines, nasal corticosteroids, and allergy avoidance strategies. But what happens when these treatments do not provide enough relief or result in unwanted side effects? This is where integrative approaches, such as Chinese herbal medicine, can play a significant role. A recent meta-analysis piqued my interest, shedding light on how Chinese herbal compounds might improve treatment outcomes

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP March 3, 2025

Exploring the Potential of Herbal Medicine for Managing Atopic Dermatitis in Children and Adults

Read time: 4 minutes Atopic dermatitis (AD) can be a challenging condition to manage, especially when traditional treatments don’t offer the relief patients seek. Could herbal medicine provide a promising alternative or complement to conventional therapies? Let’s dive into the latest research. Herbal Medicine in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis Atopic dermatitis (AD), commonly known as eczema, is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that affects both children and adults, leading to discomfort, itching, and skin irritation. Despite the availability of various conventional treatments like corticosteroids, many patients continue to struggle with flare-ups and side effects. This has sparked growing interest in complementary treatments, particularly herbal medicine, as a potential solution for managing atopic dermatitis symptoms. Incorporating herbal remedies alongside traditional therapies could offer patients a

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP February 24, 2025

Is integrating herbal medicine and acupuncture a viable approach for managing pediatric epilepsy?

Read time: 2 minutes The need for effective epilepsy management in children is undeniable, but in our pursuit of comprehensive treatment options, are we overlooking the potential of integrating herbal medicine and acupuncture? Pediatric epilepsy management often presents challenges, from medication resistance to unwanted side effects that can impact a child’s quality of life. While antiepileptic drugs remain the cornerstone of treatment, they do not always provide complete seizure control, and many children experience adverse effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, or gastrointestinal discomfort. This has led researchers and clinicians to explore complementary approaches that may enhance therapeutic outcomes. Recent research suggests that incorporating herbal medicine and acupuncture alongside standard antiepileptic drugs therapy gives us hope in providing incredible benefits. Studies indicate that these integrative therapies

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP February 17, 2025

Rethinking Pediatric Constipation: Why Combining Herbal Medicine and Probiotics Might Be a Game-Changer

Maximizing pediatric constipation relief goes beyond simply adding probiotics to the diet. The combination of herbal medicine with probiotics plays a crucial role in enhancing gut motility, reducing inflammation, and improving long-term outcomes. Read time: 2 minutes Most of us in integrative pediatrics have our go-to treatments for functional constipation—whether it’s probiotics, dietary changes, or osmotic laxatives like lactulose. But sometimes, even when we think we’ve optimized a treatment approach, new research forces us to step back and reconsider. A recent meta-analysis made me do just that. It evaluated the combined effectiveness of herbal medicine (HM) and probiotics in treating pediatric functional constipation (PFC)—and the results were surprising. While probiotics alone are a staple in constipation management, adding herbal medicine significantly boosted motility, reduced inflammation,

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP February 10, 2025

Lemon Balm and Enterovirus infections

This week, I’m excited to dive into some fascinating research that could change how we approach viral infections. Imagine harnessing the power of nature to combat illnesses like Enterovirus 71 (EV71)—and that’s exactly what we’re exploring today with Melissa officinalis (lemon balm) and its remarkable active compound, rosmarinic acid. Key Highlights: Key Findings: Potential Applications: The results indicate that both lemon balm extract and rosmarinic acid could be promising candidates for developing new therapeutic and preventive strategies against EV71 infections, offering hope in our fight against viral illnesses. Conclusion: This study opens exciting new avenues for utilizing natural remedies as effective solutions for health challenges. It reminds us that nature often holds the keys to our well-being. References: [1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5613005/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP October 28, 2024

Vitamin D and acute respiratory infections

I’m excited to bring you this week’s “Monday Study Rundown,” featuring a comprehensive study on the role of vitamin D supplementation in preventing acute respiratory infections (ARIs). This research sheds light on how vitamin D can influence respiratory health, especially in different populations. Key Highlights: Participants: 75,541 individuals from 46 randomized controlled trials, ranging from infants to seniors. Results: Safety: No significant difference in serious adverse events was observed between the vitamin D and placebo groups, indicating that supplementation was safe. Conclusion: This study supports the use of vitamin D supplementation as a safe and effective strategy to reduce the risk of acute respiratory infections, particularly in children and with specific dosing regimens. References: [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33798465/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP October 21, 2024

Echinacea for atopic dermatitis

I’m thrilled to bring you this week’s “Monday Study Rundown,” where we explore an exciting discovery that could change the way we approach atopic dermatitis relief. Get ready, because Echinacea purpurea—yes, the same plant known for boosting immunity—might be the next big thing in calming eczema symptoms! Key Highlights: Participants: The study tested both in vitro and on human subjects through three clinical trials. Method: Researchers focused on how Echinacea extract interacts with cannabinoid (CB)-2 receptors, examining its effects on inflammation and skin barrier function in people with eczema. Results: Conclusion: This study reveals that Echinacea purpurea offers powerful anti-inflammatory effects and skin barrier repair—an exciting natural option for managing atopic eczema. References: [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28610718/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP October 14, 2024

Vitamin C for reducing severity of common colds

I’m excited to continue our “Monday Study Rundown” series with a study that delves into the role of vitamin C in reducing the severity of common colds. This meta-analysis examines the effectiveness of vitamin C, especially in tackling more severe symptoms of colds. Key Highlights: Participants & Setup: The meta-analysis included 15 comparisons from 10 randomized, double-blind trials, all involving healthy individuals. Each participant took a minimum of 1 gram of vitamin C daily. Importantly, these trials were placebo-controlled, ensuring high-quality data. Results: The study found that vitamin C reduced the severity of cold symptoms by 15% on average. Notably, vitamin C had a more significant impact on the duration of severe symptoms, but did not significantly affect mild symptoms. Conclusion: This research suggests that

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP October 7, 2024

Lemon balm for PMS symptoms in adolescents

This week, let’s explore a groundbreaking study out of Poland that tested a unique garlic and thyme syrup blend for treating acute bronchitis in children. In this week’s Monday Study Rundown, we’re diving into some intriguing research on Melissa officinalis capsules and their impact on mental health in female adolescents with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Let’s break down the study: “Effect of Melissa officinalis Capsule on the Mental Health of Female Adolescents with PMS” Study Design & Participants: Methodology: Key Findings: Cool Findings: Melissa officinalis has shown promise in alleviating various psychological symptoms associated with PMS. The intervention led to significant improvements in anxiety, sleep disorders, and psychosomatic symptoms. Many adolescents experienced better social functioning and a reduction in overall distress. This study underscores the potential

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP September 30, 2024

Valerian and lemon balm for concentration and hyperactivity in children

Welcome to this week’s Monday Study Rundown! Today, we are exploring an interesting study on the use of valerian root and lemon balm extracts to support concentration and reduce hyperactivity in primary school children. Here’s what the research found: “Improvement of Hyperactivity, Concentration Difficulties, and Impulsiveness in Primary School Children Treated with Valerian Root and Lemon Balm Extracts” References: [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24837472/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP September 16, 2024

Zinc and Iron for ADHD symptoms in Children

I’m excited to continue our “Monday Study Rundown” series with a study that delves into the role of zinc and iron in managing ADHD symptoms in children. This research highlights how these minerals can influence behavior and cognitive function. Key Highlights: This study underscores the potential of targeted mineral supplementation in managing ADHD symptoms, offering a valuable approach alongside conventional treatments. References: [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31546229/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP September 2, 2024

Valerian root and lemon balm extracts in children with concentration, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness

This week, we’re exploring exciting new findings on the effects of a combination of valerian root and lemon balm extracts in children struggling with concentration, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Key Highlights: Results: The combination of valerian root and lemon balm extracts shows promise as a natural option for managing restlessness and concentration issues in children, complementing traditional counseling and education approaches. It’s remarkable how these natural extracts can make a difference in managing common childhood challenges, I’ve seen it in my own practice time and time again. References: [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24837472/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP August 12, 2024

DASH diet for ADHD symptoms in Children

This week, we are looking at the potential benefits of the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet in managing ADHD symptoms in children aged 6-12 years. Key Highlights: As the name suggests, the DASH diet was not created for ADHD but for hypertension. Yet, its emphasis on whole foods, lean proteins, and low sugar intake seems to have a positive impact on ADHD symptoms as well. It’s fascinating how dietary approaches can cross boundaries and offer unexpected benefits in different areas of health. References: [1] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33715085/

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP July 26, 2024

St. John’s Wort, Valerian, and Passionflower for “nervous agitation” in children

This week, let’s dive into a compelling German study on a triple herbal blend with St. John’s Wort, Valerian, and Passionflower for “nervous agitation” in children. Study Highlights: Cool Findings: References: Trompetter, I., Krick, B. & Weiss, G. Herbal triplet in treatment of nervous agitation in children. Wien Med Wochenschr 163, 52–57 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10354-012-0165-1

Erika Krumbeck, ND, FABNP July 22, 2024

Can Audiovisual Distraction Change the Pediatric Dental Experience?

Vitamin D and Sleep in Kids with ADHD: A Missing Piece of the Puzzle?

The Neuroprotective Potential of Omega-3s in Brain Injury