How Does Diet and Nutrition Impact Dyslexia?

By Morgan Kimball

When we think about helping children with dyslexia, we often focus on specialized tutoring, supportive learning environments, and adaptive tools. But there’s another key player that doesn’t get as much attention: nutrition. What we eat fuels our brains, and for children with dyslexia—whose brains process language different—nutrition can play a vital role in supporting cognitive function, focus, and emotional well-being.

To shed light on this important topic, I asked Kimberly Stoeger, MS, CNS, a Clinical Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist® with Nutritional Healing, LLC a few questions. Kimberly specializes in functional medicine and has worked with children who have dyslexia and other neurodiverse profiles. She provided expert insight into how nutrition can play a powerful role in supporting learning and brain health.

  1. How Nutrition Impacts the Dyslexic Brain

“There is growing evidence suggesting that nutrition plays a significant role in brain function, including areas related to language processing, focus, and memory,” Kimberly explains.

While dyslexia is neurobiological in origin and not caused by diet, certain nutrients that support cognitive development and neuroplasticity can enhance overall brain function. Improving blood flow to the brain, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and reducing inflammation through dietary changes may help create a stronger foundation for learning.

 

  1. Common Nutritional Patterns in Kids with Learning Differences

At Nutritional Healing, Kimberly and her team have worked with many children diagnosed with dyslexia, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, and other learning challenges.

“One of the most common things we see is blood sugar dysregulation, toxin overload, food sensitivities, or imbalanced gut health,” she says. These factors can lead to symptoms like brain fog, irritability, lack of focus, and behavior issues. When nutritional foundations are addressed, many children become noticeably calmer and more engaged in learning.

  1. Key Nutrients That Support Focus and Memory

Kimberly recommends increasing the following nutrients to support cognitive function:

  • Omega-3 fatty acids (especially DHA): Found in fatty fish like salmon or in high-quality fish oil supplements.
  • Iron, zinc, and magnesium: Vital for neurotransmitter function and concentration.
  • B vitamins (B6, B12, and folate): Help with energy production and brain health.
  • Protein: Should be included at every meal to stabilize blood sugar and support neurotransmitter synthesis.
  • Colorful fruits and vegetables: Provide antioxidants that protect the brain from oxidative stress.

 

  1. Food vs. Supplements

“Food is always our first recommendation because nutrients are more bioavailable in their natural state,” Kimberly emphasizes. However, in some cases—such as significant deficiencies, very restricted diets, or absorption issues—targeted supplements can be very beneficial. Functional lab testing can determine what specific nutrients a child may need.

  1. Smart School Lunches and Snacks

Kimberly encourages keeping meals and snacks simple, colorful, and balanced:

  • Protein: Examples include turkey roll-ups, hard-boiled eggs, hummus, or Greek yogurt.
  • Fiber-rich carbs: Think berries, carrots, or gluten-free crackers.
  • Healthy fats: Like guacamole, nuts/seeds, or coconut yogurt.

Use a bento box to make lunch visually appealing, and involve kids in the prep process. Prepping the night before can reduce morning stress.

 

 

  1. Supporting Healthy Eating Without Added Pressure

Getting kids to eat nutritious foods, especially if they are picky eaters, can be a challenge. Kimberly suggests:

  • Involving kids in meal planning and preparation.
  • Using “food bridges” to transition slowly from familiar foods to new ones (e.g., moving from apple slices to pear slices).
  • Offering routine exposure to healthy foods without pressure.
  • Modeling healthy eating habits.

  1. Nutrition Tips for Kids with Anxiety or ADHD

Many children with dyslexia also experience overlapping challenges like anxiety or ADHD. Kimberly recommends:

  • Regulating blood sugar: Limit sugary or processed foods; focus on protein and fiber.
  • Magnesium and omega-3s: Both have calming effects and support brain health.
  • Eliminating artificial dyes and food sensitivities: These can trigger behavioral responses.
  • Supporting gut health: Include probiotics and fermented foods.

  1. Final Thoughts

“Nutrition won’t ‘cure’ dyslexia,” Kimberly notes, “but it can support the brain’s capacity to adapt, focus, and learn.” When combined with effective reading interventions and emotional support, nutrition becomes a powerful part of the support system.

Every child is unique, and even small, consistent changes in nutrition tailored to their needs can make a meaningful difference.

Nutrition may not be the first thing people consider when thinking about dyslexia, but it’s an essential piece of the puzzle. When we nourish children’s bodies, we help nourish their potential. By creating strong nutritional foundations, families and educators can better support kids with dyslexia in reaching their full academic and personal potential. Small steps—like packing balanced lunches, addressing deficiencies, and involving kids in their food choices—can lead to big changes in how they learn, feel, and thrive.

 

About Kimberly Stoeger, MS, CNS

Based in Appleton, WI, Kimberly is a Clinical Nutritionist and Certified Nutrition Specialist who operates a private functional medicine and healthcare practice, Nutritional Healing, LLC. She and her team travel to provide nutrition education and support within local companies, schools, and organizations. Learn more at https://nutritionalhealingllc.com/