About this episode
In this episode of The Root Cause Medicine Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Elisa Song—pediatrician, integrative medicine expert, and author of Healthy Kids, Happy Kids . As the founder of Whole Family Wellness, Dr. Song has dedicated her career to empowering parents with science-backed, holistic strategies to raise resilient, thriving children. We explore the foundational role of gut health in childhood development, how added sugars and processed foods harm the microbiome, and why the key to lifelong health starts with the smallest daily habits. Dr. Song also introduces her five pillars of pediatric gut health and highlights the powerful connection between the gut and the brain in kids. You’ll learn: How gut health influences childhood development and disease Holistic approaches to managing pediatric health concerns The five pillars of a healthy gut for children How added sugar and ultra-processed foods impact the brain The connection between gut health and mental health in kids This episode is a must-listen for parents, pediatric professionals, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of how to support children's health with compassion, nutrition, and science. Order tests through Rupa Health, the BEST place to order functional medicine lab tests from 30+ labs – https://www.rupahealth.com/reference-guide Labs Mentioned Genova GI-Effects Stool Testing Blood Testing Tiny Health Microbiome Analysis Guest Details: Dr. Elisa Song’s Website , LinkedIn , Instagram , X , Facebook , YouTube , TikTok Healthy Kids, Happy Kids Book Whole Family Wellness Website CEDH USA Website Rupa Health Details: Rupa Health's Website Rupa Health on LinkedIn Rupa Health on Instagram Rupa Health on Tik Tok Rupa Health on YouTube Rupa Health Reference Guide Rupa Health Magazine Timestamps 02:46 - Why Did Dr. Song Wrote Healthy Kids, Happy Kids? 04:16 - The Truth About Chronic Diseases in Kids 10:20 - 5 Simple Daily Habits to Enhance Your Child’s Health 13:17 - Easy Diet Hacks for a Healthier, Happier Family 20:34 - How Ultra-Processed Foods Are Wrecking Our Kids' Brains 24:45 - The Ingredients Parents Must Avoid to Keep Their Kids Healthy 31:53 - Why Is Sugar Bad for the Microbiome? 31:53 - Testing for Gut Health 44:24 - Are Probiotics Safe for Children? 47:19 - How Gut Health and Natural Remedies Can Enhance Your Child's Immunity