Food as Medicine How What We Eat Shapes Our Mind, Mood, and Health

Food as Medicine: How Food Dyes, Chemicals, and Nutrition Shape Children’s Health & Behavior | Pulling Threads Podcast

In this powerful episode of Pulling Threads, host Leslie Mathews, MSW sits down with Dr. Kelly Cross, a board-certified pediatrician and integrative medicine practitioner, to explore how what we eat influences the mind, mood, and overall health — especially in children.

💬 Topics we cover:

• The impact of food dyes, preservatives, and ultra-processed foods on behavior and attention

• How chemical sensitivities can mimic symptoms of ADHD, anxiety, and mood swings

• Dr. Cross’s journey from traditional pediatrics to integrative medicine

• Practical ways parents can create healthier eating habits without spending a fortune

• The connection between nutrition and mental health in kids and teens

• Honest conversation about food system challenges, upcoming legislation, and the complex landscape of vaccines

✨ Key Moments:

00:00 Introduction to Pulling Threads

00:34 Meet Dr. Kelly Cross

02:07 Kelly’s Journey to Integrative Medicine

06:33 Balancing Traditional and Holistic Approaches

11:06 The Impact of Chemicals and Dyes on Health

17:52 Nutrition Tips for Kids and Teens

26:14 Affordable Organic Options (Aldi + Costco)

31:08 Diet and ADHD Connections

39:31 The Future of Food Safety & Policy

41:28 Vaccine Conversations

48:12 Practical Steps for Healthier Living

If you’ve ever wondered how food choices shape our children’s mental and emotional health, this conversation will change the way you think about your plate — and your pantry.

👉 Subscribe for more episodes on mindfulness, holistic health, and emotional healing.

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or watch the full video here on YouTube.

💬 Share your thoughts below — how have food choices impacted your family’s well-being?

#FoodAsMedicine #IntegrativeMedicine #ChildrensHealth #FoodDyes #ADHD #NutritionAndMentalHealth #HolisticHealth #MindBodyConnection #PullingThreadsPodcast #LeslieMathewsMSW #DrKellyCross