Down For Health
Podcast Description
Down For Health is a single-host podcast dedicated to empowering families of individuals with Down syndrome by exploring the transformative power of functional medicine. Hosted by an experienced practitioner, this podcast offers practical insights into disease prevention, wellness strategies, and the unique health challenges faced by those with Down syndrome.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into topics including functional medicine applications for Down syndrome, disease prevention, and wellness strategies. Episodes like 'The Functional Medicine Approach to Down Syndrome: An Introduction' highlight the holistic care strategies for managing thyroid disorders and obesity, aiming to empower families and caregivers with actionable insights.
Down For Health is a single-host podcast dedicated to empowering families of individuals with Down syndrome by exploring the transformative power of functional medicine. Hosted by an experienced practitioner, this podcast offers practical insights into disease prevention, wellness strategies, and the unique health challenges faced by those with Down syndrome.
Episode Overview
In this episode, we’re joined by Shandy Watters, MA, CCC-SLP, FNTP, to explore why feeding challenges in Down syndrome go far beyond “picky eating.”
We break down the oral-motor, sensory, and nutritional foundations that shape eating habits and how a whole-child, functional approach can support development, regulation, and long-term health.
About Our Guest
Shandy Watters is an integrative speech-language pathologist, feeding specialist, and Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner. Through her platform, Speaking of Health & Wellness, she supports families navigating complex picky eating and developmental challenges using a food-first, nervous-system-informed approach.
https://www.speakingofhealthandwellness.com
@speakingofhealthandwellness
What We Cover
- Complex picky eating
- The role of oral-motor skills, sensory processing, and regulation
- How nutrition and gut health influence feeding and development
Practical Takeaways
Reframe Feeding
Focus on root causes. Not just behavior.
Communication Matters
Use neutral, low-pressure language and avoid force or bribery.
Model Behavior
Children learn by watching. Model calm, positive interactions with food.
Support Development
Build safety and trust first; progress comes with consistency.
Resources
📄 The Oral-Motor Myths of Down Syndrome
https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1545/7007/files/TheOral-MotorMythsofDownsyndromeREVISED.pdf
Disclaimer
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