Nutrition for PANS & PANDAS
By Shannon Leatherman, RDN, LDN
Today’s Dietitian
Vol. 27 No. 4 P. 18
The Dietitian’s Role in Improving Patient Outcomes
“Most parents describe pediatric acute-onset neuropsychiatric syndrome (PANS)/pediatric autoimmune neuropsychiatric disorders associated with streptococcal infections (PANDAS) “like a light switch went off … one day my child was happy and healthy, and the next day he was paralyzed with fear, shaking his head, angry, aggressive, and afraid to eat.””
In summation:
Nutrition is vital for kids with PANS/PANDAS, conditions tied to OCD and infections like strep that disrupt eating habits, causing nutrient deficiencies and gut issues. Registered Dietitians (RDs) can help by:
- Assessing growth, nutrient intake, and picky eating behaviors
- Preventing malnutrition with a diet rich in fiber, healthy fats, and protein
- Reducing processed foods and adding supplements like multivitamins and fish oil
- Supporting gut health with probiotics and cautious elimination diets
- Advocating with empathy, connecting families to resources
Early intervention can boost health and ease symptoms!
Gabriella True
