245. Are Hungry Kids Being “Difficult” or Dysregulated?
About this episode
Dr. Caroline discusses the physical aspects of emotional regulation in children and how factors like nutrition and sleep influence anxiety and behavior.
This week on Overpowering Emotions, Dr. Caroline breaks down the vagus nerve, the gut-brain connection, and why emotional regulation starts in the body long before it reaches conscious thought. From “hangry” and “hanxious” kids to the role of sleep, hydration, protein, and stress beliefs, this episode explains why emotional overwhelm is often physical before it becomes behavioral. Dr. Caroline shares eye-opening research on anxiety, stress, dopamine, serotonin, and the stories children tell themselves about their emotions. You’ll hear why a racing heart before a test is not a sign something is wrong, how processed foods can fuel dysregulation, and why the words adults use around anxiety can shape a child’s nervous system response. This episode offers practical ways to support emotional regulation through nutrition, body awareness, and everyday conversations that help kids feel safe in their own bodies. Topics covered include: - The vagus nerve and body-to-brain communication - Why emotional regulation starts with sleep, food, hydration, and movement - The gut-brain connection in children and teens - Dopamine, serotonin, and how food affects mood - Why kids need adults to…
More episodes of Overpowering Emotions: Tools for Child & Teen Anxiety and Resilience
- 244. What is your child’s nervous system trying to say?
- 243. Could Oxytocin Be the Missing Piece in Emotional Regulation?
- 242. Are calming strategies making anxiety worse?
- 241. Is Reassurance Making Anxiety Worse?
- 240. How Do Kids Build Confidence If They Never Face Fear?
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