The Disconnected Kids Nutrition Plan: Proven Strategies to Enhance Learning and Focus for Children with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and Other Neurological Disorders

This guide from chiropractic neurologist Melillo (Disconnected Kids) provides thought-provoking eating strategies for parents of children with neurological disorders, though it too often reads like a marketing tool for his holistic Brain Balance program. As outlined in Melillo’s previous book, he believes that the neurological disorders plaguing many children today stem from “imbalances” in how their brains develop. Using patient case studies as illustration, Melillo discusses an array of nutrition challenges, including leaky gut syndrome and food sensitivities. His methods provide advice for parents of picky eaters and children with food sensitivities, such as tips for following an elimination diet, staying calm and firm, and shopping healthily. The book’s second section contains recipes, many free of ingredients such as gluten and casein that are likely to trigger food sensitivities. The recipes are varied and appealing, but some of the “replacement” ingredients might be difficult to source, and a listing of nutritional specifics such as calorie counts would have been helpful. Melillo’s frequent references to his Brain Balance program will be off-putting to some, but this book could prove useful for parents of problem eaters who have exhausted all other avenues. (Apr.)