Avoiding gluten, dairy, soy, artificial flavors or colors, or other highly inflammatory foods during the holidays can be tricky! But Andrea Daigle has some AMAZING tips in this episode of the Soaring Child podcast.

Andrea is one of our expert coaches at the ADHD Thrive Institute, a board-certified holistic health practitioner, and FDN-P. She’s been an amazing guide to countless families, helping them manage ADHD naturally. She’s also a regular on this podcast, and I know her advice will leave you feeling prepared, supported, and ready to enjoy the holidays without stress.

If you want to enjoy the holidays without a meltdown, preparation is absolutely everything, and this episode will give you lots of tips to help!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

• ADHD Fast Class - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

Key Takeaways:

[3:43] Challenges of Holiday Gatherings for Gluten and Dairy-Free Diets
[4:09] Tips for Preparing Gluten and Dairy-Free Foods
[5:09] Getting the Whole Family Involved
[6:54] Key Ingredients for Substitutions and Creative Boards
[15:45] A Recap of the Steps Parents Can Take for Holiday Parties
[16:14] Staying Positive and Motivated
[17:03] Crowd-Pleasing Gluten and Dairy-Free Holiday Dishes
[20:02] How to Handle Accidental Gluten and Dairy Exposure

Memorable Moments:
"Preparation is the key to avoiding holiday meltdowns for kids with ADHD."

"One holiday, all we found were some gluten-free crackers and a sad little salad – we learned the hard way."

"If kids help shop and cook, they’re more likely to eat and enjoy what’s on their plates."

"Bring a dish to share – a crowd-pleasing gluten-free dessert or charcuterie board can make a big difference."

"When everyone eats better, they feel better. Keep that as a mantra during the holidays."

"Communicate with your host and don’t hesitate to offer to bring gluten-free options."

"Stock up on gluten-free treats and keep them in your freezer for those last-minute holiday parties."

"If your child sneaks a cookie, don’t panic. Accidents happen, and it’s okay."

"Use moments of gluten or dairy slip-ups as teaching moments, focusing on how different foods make them feel."

"A pumpkin pie or stuffing can be made gluten and dairy-free with just a few simple swaps."

How to Connect with Andrea Daigle

Schedule a free call with Andrea and the team at ADHD Thrive Institute: https://bit.ly/3X5ZVvT

🔗WEBSITES:

• https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
• https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

• Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

• Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

• ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
• ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
• Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY

In this episode of the Soaring Child podcast, we're diving into a topic that might seem a little bit unexpected, but could completely change how you support your child with ADHD, and that is oral health. Joining us for this episode is Dr. Derek Gatta.

Dr. Gatta is a dentist and co-founder of RiseWell, a science-backed oral care brand that’s revolutionizing the industry with its non-toxic, dentist-formulated products. After realizing that most toothpaste on the market contains toxic ingredients, he teamed up with his sister and brother-in-law to create RiseWell, which uses ingredients like hydroxyapatite, a natural alternative that’s both safe and effective.

As the head of the scientific council at RiseWell, Dr. Gatta leads the search for the healthiest and cleanest ingredients, raising the bar for quality and purity in oral care. He’s not only an expert in the field, but he’s passionate about helping people achieve optimal oral health, which is so vital for overall well-being—especially for kids with ADHD.

If you’ve ever wondered how your child’s toothpaste could be playing a role in their ADHD symptoms, you do NOT want to miss this episode.

Links Mentioned in the Show:

• Get Clean Dental Products HERE - https://get.aspr.app/SHmIx Use code - ADHDTHRIVEINSTITUTE
• Symptom Reduction Tool - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/tool

Key Takeaways:
[6:58] The Impact of Oral Health on ADHD
[10:49] Common Toxic Ingredients in Traditional Oral Care Products
[13:22] The Fluoride Debate: Risks and Alternatives
[17:11] Hydroxyapatite: The Natural Alternative to Fluoride
[22:18] Other Natural Oral Care Ingredients
[24:15] How to Find a Natural-Minded Dentist

Memorable Moments:
"I couldn’t believe that something as basic as toothpaste could be contributing to my son’s ADHD symptoms."

"We discovered the toothpaste my son was using was full of artificial ingredients that triggered hyperactivity."

"Oral health is just as important as diet when it comes to supporting kids with ADHD."

"There’s a strong connection between oral health, gut health, and brain health, especially in children with ADHD."

"Bleeding gums can serve as a gateway for bacteria, potentially leading to inflammation that worsens ADHD symptoms."

"Traditional toothpaste contains toxic ingredients, like sodium lauryl sulfate, which can harm the body’s natural balance."

"Many kids with ADHD swallow toothpaste, making it even more crucial to avoid harmful ingredients."

"There’s growing research showing the potential risks of fluoride on neurodevelopment in children."

"Hydroxyapatite is a safe, natural alternative to fluoride that protects teeth without the health concerns."

"Parents need to ask their dentist about fluoride alternatives and safer oral care options for their children."

How to Connect with Derek Gatta

• Dr. Derek’s Dental Practice - Innovative Dental Aesthetics https://innovativedentalaesthetics.com/
• Innovative Dental Aesthetics Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/innovativedentalaesthetics/
• Dr. Derek’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drderekgatta/

🔗WEBSITES:

• https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
• https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

• Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

• Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

• ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
• ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
• Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY

Have holidays historically been difficult for your child with ADHD? Do the changes in routine affect their behavior? In this episode of the Soaring child podcast, discover how to best prepare your child with ADHD for the changes in routine that the holiday season brings, how to handle judgment from well-meaning relatives without letting it affect your confidence or emotional state, and how to both prevent and manage meltdowns when the excitement and overstimulation of the holidays start to take their toll.

Ashley Gobeil is a frequent guest on this podcast because she gets it—she’s helped countless families like yours and mine navigate the complexities of raising a child with ADHD. She is a highly experienced therapist with over 15 years in the field. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, a Master’s in Social Health & Counseling, and a Master’s of Social Work.

But beyond the credentials, she’s worked in a wide range of settings, including childcare, schools, and child and adolescent mental health. Her expertise includes supporting children with ADHD, ODD, and learning difficulties, and she’s a trusted voice on issues like family dynamics, trauma, and attachment theory.

This conversation could make all the difference this holiday season, so tune in!

Links Mentioned in the Show:

• Sensory Activity Guide - https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/free-5-body-and-sensory-based-strategies-optin
• ADHD Thrive Jumpstart 4 Parenting Program - http://adhdthriveinstitute.com/parenting

Key Takeaways:
[4:29] Practical Tips for Preparing ADHD Children for the Holidays
[9:50] Managing Judgment from Family Members
[17:08] Preventing and Managing Meltdowns
[23:28] Soothing the Nervous System During Holiday Overstimulation
[27:48] Summary of the Top Tips for Handling ADHD During the Holidays
[29:30] The Importance of Self-Care for Parents

Memorable Moments:
“The holidays can be magical, but for families like ours, they definitely come with unique challenges.”

“Kids with ADHD often struggle with transitions, especially during the holidays when routines are disrupted.”

“Connection before correction—always connect with your child first, especially during emotional moments.”

“The more you can prepare or preempt something before it happens, the better.”

“When you're hearing those comments from family members, validate your own feelings and set boundaries.”

”I know that I’m parenting in the way that my child needs, and I don’t have to justify that to anyone.”

“Parents, take micro moments to look after yourself, because the more you have in your tank, the more you can help your kids.”

“It’s not about punishing or controlling behaviors; it’s about understanding ADHD and advocating for your child.”

“Look for the positive moments, even during tough times, and acknowledge your child's efforts.”

“Overstimulation is common during the holidays, so give your child sensory breaks and low-stimulation environments.”

“With planning, preparation, and empathy, you can create a beautiful holiday season for your family.”

🔗WEBSITES:

• https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/
• https://dana-kay.com/

👋SOCIALS:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ADHDThriveInstitute/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adhdthriveinstitute/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ADHDThriveInstitute
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/adhd-thrive-institute/mycompany/
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ph/adhdthriveinstitute/
• Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhd_thriveinstitute

📕INTERNATIONAL BEST SELLING BOOK:

• Thriving with ADHD – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/book/

💻FREE MASTERCLASS

• Free Reduce ADHD Symptoms Naturally Masterclass - https://bit.ly/3GAbFQl

⭐COURSES & PROGRAMS

• ADHD Parenting Course – https://info.adhdthriveinstitute.com/parentingadhd
• ADHD Thrive Method 4 Kids Program – https://adhdthriveinstitute.com/packages/
• Dye-Free for ADHD Course - https://bit.ly/4aFj6TY