161. 5 Signs Your Childs Nervous System is Stuck in 'Fight or Flight'

Dec 2, 2025

34:10

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Episode notes

In this episode, Dr. Tony Ebel breaks down the five key signs that your child's nervous system may be stuck in fight or flight mode. He explains how nervous system dysregulation shows up in the most basic life functions—eating, sleeping, breathing, and moving—and why these "neurological soft signs" often get misdiagnosed as food intolerances, allergies, or behavioral issues. Dr. Tony walks parents through what to look for at every age, from infants struggling to latch and soothe, to older kids dealing with anxiety, meltdowns, and sensory challenges. He also shares his top drug-free strategies for calming a dysregulated nervous system, including the power of getting outside, protecting bedtime routines, and the often-overlooked importance of parent co-regulation.

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Key Topics & Timestamps

(00:06:00) - The Neurological Soft Signs: Where dysregulation shows up first

(00:07:00) - The Core Four: Eating, sleeping, breathing, and moving

(00:14:00) - Breathing patterns and the gut-brain-immune connection

(00:20:00) - Posture, motor tone, and sensory processing red flags

(00:23:00) - Emotional Signs: Anxiety, meltdowns, and behavioral challenges

(00:25:00) - How to Test For it: The INSiGHT Scans

(00:27:00) - Dr. Tony's top tips for calming a dysregulated nervous system