The Research for Children Aotearoa Child Nutrition Research Talks were well attended last week, featuring three researchers who shared their research across critical areas of health topics for children.
Alix Harding, UC PhD Candidate, spoke about the M&M trial, looking at the use of micronutrients and mindfulness and how this can impact a child’s emotional regulation. Whilst the data is still being collected, Alix shared comments from families who participated, showing the positive outcomes it made for their whānau.
Gastroenterologist Dietician Stephanie Brown discussed in length about the emotional impact gastrointestinal disease can have on children through their health journey. This can come secondary to treatment of the acute illness, but has long lasting effects on that tamariki and their wider whānau.
Lastly, Endocrinologist Mercedes Burnside talked about the alarming rates of early onset type 2 diabetes in young children. With these rates climbing quickly, a need to begin research and support for these children was seen, and Dr Burnside outlined a new research partnership with Etu to screen metabolic health at regular school age health checks.
Following the talks, the three guest speakers answered questions from the audience. It was a great informal, yet informative evening. We hope to offer more of these in the new year!
