Children’s Gut Health in London: Nutrition, Allergies and Development

With Dr Joe Datt, Consultant Paediatrician at Schoen Clinic Chelsea

Good gut health is essential for children, supporting not just digestion but also growth, immunity, mental health and concentration. From early years right through to adolescence, a balanced diet and healthy digestive system play a crucial role in a child’s overall development.

In this article, Dr Joe Datt, Consultant Paediatrician at Schoen Clinic Chelsea in London, explains why gut health matters, the impact of nutrition and diet, and how allergies, intolerances and probiotics can influence a child’s wellbeing.

Why Gut Health Matters in Children

The gut is often called the “second brain” because of its strong connection to the rest of the body. For children, gut health is especially important in the key stages of growth.

• Nutrient absorption – making sure children get the vitamins, minerals and energy needed for healthy growth.

• Immune function – as much as 70% of the immune system is located in the gut.

• Cognitive health – poor gut health has been linked to reduced concentration and mental wellbeing.

As Dr Datt explains:

“Abnormalities that are causing problems in the gut not only affect the bowels and what is excreted in your faeces, but can also affect your mental health, your concentration and cognitive ability as well.”

Addressing gut health problems early can make a significant difference to children’s long-term wellbeing. It also highlights the close connection between gut health and wider aspects of child development, such as the need for neurodevelopmental assessments in children and adolescents.

Nutrition: The Foundation of Gut Health

A balanced diet is one of the most effective ways to support a child’s digestive system. At Schoen Clinic Chelsea, Dr Datt often sees children whose symptoms are linked to poor nutritional balance.

“It’s very important to get a good balance of good carbohydrates, proteins, right fats, and a good balanced diet in all children from their early years to the rest of the development phase of a child.”

Instead of relying heavily on sugars, parents should focus on:

• Whole grains – such as oats, brown rice and wholemeal bread

• Lean proteins – like chicken, fish, beans and lentils

• Healthy fats – from nuts, seeds, avocado and oily fish

• Fruits and vegetables – rich in fibre and essential nutrients

This balance provides the energy children need for play, learning and growth, while also supporting a healthy digestive system. If eating difficulties are affecting your child, our team also provides support for children’s eating disorders and nutrition-related conditions.

Allergies and Intolerances in Children

In London and across the UK, food intolerances and allergies are becoming increasingly common in children. These can begin very early in life.

“We see more milk allergies, protein intolerance allergies from an early neonatal phase and sometimes there’s intolerances as well as allergies,” says Dr Datt.

Some of the most common gut-related issues include:

• Cow’s milk protein allergy

• Lactose intolerance

• Gluten sensitivity

Left untreated, these conditions can cause digestive pain, poor growth and nutrient deficiencies. They may also overlap with behavioural or emotional changes, which is why assessment by a paediatric gut health specialist is so important. In some cases, families also seek advice through our ADHD and autism assessments to ensure every aspect of their child’s health is fully understood.

Probiotics, Prebiotics and Gut Support

Parents often ask whether probiotics and prebiotics can help support their child’s gut health. Research is ongoing, but the results show promise for some children.

“There’s been various clinical studies looking at pre and probiotics to see whether they impact the allergies or the intolerances. For some children, they’ve made no difference. But for some other children, they’ve really helped in terms of preventing allergies or intolerances,” explains Dr Datt.

Probiotics may help strengthen the gut lining and balance bacteria, but they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Speaking with a paediatrician before starting supplements is recommended.

Supporting Your Child’s Gut Health

Every child is different, but steps parents can take include:

• Offering a balanced, whole-food diet

• Limiting processed foods and sugars

• Monitoring for signs of food intolerance or allergy

• Seeking medical advice for ongoing digestive issues

“Having a good gut health with good bacteria, good nutrients really impacts not only just the gut but other organs as well,” says Dr Datt.

Children’s Gut Health Specialists in London

If your child is experiencing frequent tummy pain, digestive problems, food allergies or intolerances, expert support is available.

At Schoen Clinic Chelsea in London, Consultant Paediatrician Dr Joe Datt provides specialist assessments and tailored care for children with gut health concerns. Families across London and the South East visit our clinic for expert advice on nutrition, allergies, intolerances and child development.

If you’re concerned about your child’s gut health, we’re here to help. You can contact our team for more information, or if you are self-funding, you can book directly online with Dr Joe Datt. Our self-booking system means your child can often be seen with minimal delay at our Chelsea clinic.