Diet, Nutrition and Selective Mutism

Selective Mutism (SM) is a complex anxiety disorder affecting individuals’ ability to speak and engage socially in certain situations. While the primary treatment of Selective Mutism focuses on reducing anxiety and increasing social communication through approaches like the Social Communication Bridge®, the role of diet and nutrition in managing anxiety cannot be overlooked.

Though there is no direct evidence linking diet to Selective Mutism, dietary changes have been shown to influence anxiety levels in general. Here’s how thoughtful dietary choices can complement SM treatment:

Dietary Recommendations for Reducing Anxiety

1. Complex Carbohydrates

Foods like potatoes, whole wheat bread, and pasta have calming effects by increasing tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin. Unlike simple carbs such as candy or white bread, complex carbs stabilize blood sugar, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.

2. Limit High-Protein Diets

Protein-rich foods require significant digestive effort, potentially increasing cortisol levels and heart rates—both triggers for anxiety in some individuals.

3. Watch Dairy Intake

Dairy can cause digestive discomfort in certain children, exacerbating symptoms like bloating and stomach aches often associated with anxiety.

4. Reduce Simple Sugars

Foods high in simple sugars (e.g., chocolate, sodas, cakes) can cause rapid blood sugar spikes, leading to mood swings and heightened anxiety.

5. Incorporate Key Vitamins and Minerals

B Vitamins: Especially B-6, known to aid serotonin production.
Calcium, Zinc, and Magnesium: Found in dairy and green vegetables, these help calm the nervous system.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like salmon, flaxseeds, and walnuts, Omega-3s reduce anxiety and support language development.

6. Hydration

Dehydration can trigger symptoms like fatigue, rapid heart rate, and anxious feelings. Encourage consistent water intake throughout the day.

7. Herbal Remedies (For Adults and Older Teens)

Herbs like chamomile, valerian root, and St. John’s Wort may help alleviate anxiety. However, always consult with a healthcare professional before introducing these, especially for children.

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Lifestyle Tips to Complement Nutritional Changes

Regular Exercise
- Physical activity reduces muscle tension, lowers blood pressure, and releases endorphins, creating a sense of calm and well-being.
Adequate Sleep
- Restful sleep boosts immunity and lowers internal stress levels, essential for individuals with anxiety disorders.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
- Practices like deep breathing, yoga, or meditation can help children develop self-regulation skills to manage anxiety. Apps like Calm and Headspace are a great place to start.

Combining Diet with Selective Mutism-Specific Treatments

While dietary adjustments may help lower overall anxiety, effective SM treatment requires a comprehensive, team-based approach. Programs like the Social Communication Anxiety Treatment® (S-CAT®) focus on understanding a child’s baseline communication stage and implementing strategies to build confidence and reduce anxiety. Dietary and lifestyle changes can provide additional support, helping children feel physically and mentally prepared to tackle their communication goals.

If you are caring for a child with SM, consider working closely with healthcare and nutrition experts to create an individualized plan that supports their overall well-being.

Disclaimer: Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized dietary and medical advice tailored to your child’s needs.

Elisa Shipon-Blum DO2025-03-28T21:13:30-04:00March 28th, 2025|Comments Off

About the Author: Elisa Shipon-Blum DO

Elisa Shipon-Blum DO, is the President and Director of the Selective Mutism Anxiety and Related Disorders Treatment Center (SMart Center) located in Jenkintown, Pennsylvania. She is the Founder and Director Emeritus of the Selective Mutism Association (SMA) and a Director of the Selective Mutism Research Institute (SMRI), a foundation established to study Dr. Shipon-Blum’s theories and treatment methodologies on Selective Mutism. In addition, Dr Shipon-Blum is Clinical Assistant Professor of Psychology & Family Medicine at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. She is a board certified physician who specializes in Selective Mutism. Dr. Shipon-Blum practices in Jenkintown, PA, and has developed the evidenced-based Social Communication Anxiety Treatment (S-CAT)® from her years studying and researching individuals with Selective Mutism. She consults worldwide with families, treating professionals, and educators, and has helped thousands of children from around the world overcome Selective Mutism. Based on her successful S-CAT® program, Dr. E also created CommuniCamp™, an intensive group treatment program for children with Selective Mutism, social anxiety, and extreme shyness. Dr. Shipon-Blum lectures throughout the country on the topic of Selective Mutism, performs school evaluations and training for treating professionals, educators, and parents, and is considered one of the world’s leading experts in the treatment, research, and understanding of Selective Mutism. She has been a featured expert on national television programs such as 20/20, CNN, Inside Edition, and Good Morning America, as well as other local, national, and international television and radio broadcasts. In addition, she has been featured in TIME Magazine, People Magazine, and has interviewed with newspapers such as the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Boston Globe, San Diego Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirer, and Palm Beach Post. Dr. Shipon-Blum is presently involved in multiple collaborative research projects with top researchers and clinicians. In addition to her research she has written numerous articles and books on Selective Mutism and anxiety including ‘Easing School Jitters for the Selectively Mute Child,’ ‘The Ideal Classroom Setting for the Selectively Mute Child,’ ‘Understanding Katie,’ ‘Supplement Treatment Guide Book to Understanding Katie‘, ‘Selective Mutism Summer Vacation & Back to School Guide‘ and ‘ Selective Mutism and Social Anxiety Disorder in School .’ She has also produced numerous DVDs on the topics of treatment and assessment of Selective Mutism, and the development of school accommodations and interventions for mute children. Dr. Shipon-Blum (or Dr. E as her patients refer to her) prides herself on being ‘down to earth’ and ‘easy to speak to’, and resides with her family in the northeast suburbs of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Notably, she is also the mother of a child, Sophie, who suffered from and overcame Selective Mutism and is the inspiration for the work she does each day.