In-person consultations available on Wednesdays. Online appointments are available for your convenience.
In-person consultations available on Thursdays. Online appointments are available for your convenience.
Gut Feeling for Smart Schools
When we nourish the gut,
we enhance the brain!
Patrick Holford, founder of the Institute for Optimum Nutrition & Food for the Brain Charity endorses this gut-brain program and Linda’s work
Results That Matter
Improved student behaviour, wellbeing and engagement through better nutrition
Whole-school capacity building, empowering teachers, parents and students with practical nutrition knowledge
Early intervention and long-term impact, identifying nutrition-related issues early and reducing future risk of chronic disease
How can we support you today?
Choose your path to better health
Personalised 1:1 Support
If you’re dealing with ongoing gut symptoms, fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, hormonal changes or burnout — and want real answers, not guesswork — this is where to start.
Learn & Heal Together
An educational membership designed to help you understand your gut, brain and body — with clear guidance, expert insights and practical tools you can use every day.
Education That Creates Change
Evidence-based presentations and programs for workplaces, schools and community organisations — translating gut–brain science into practical strategies that support wellbeing, resilience and performance.
We can help!
Schedule an appointment
Discuss your concerns with one of our expert nutritionists
Implement the plan together with support each step of the way.
We listen to your needs and help you understand the changes you need to make and why they are important. We provide recommendations on diet, lifestyle and supplements to help you optimise your gut health for the long term.
Ways to work together
Initial Consultation
A deep-dive into your health history, symptoms and goals to uncover what’s really going on and map your next steps.
Gut Health Test Package
Advanced microbiome testing with clear interpretation and a personalised plan to restore balance naturally.
8-Week Gut–Brain Health Master Plan
A premium 1:1 program for those ready to commit to lasting gut, brain and nervous system healing.
Nourishing Young Minds
and inspiring our youth to be there best
The Brain Needs Real Food
Only 4.3% of Aussie kids (aged 2–17) eat the recommended amount of both fruits and vegetables. That’s over 95% of children missing key brain-building nutrients every day.
Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022
A poor diet (aka the Standard Australian Diet or SAD) has been linked to up to 65% shrinkage in the hippocampus – the memory and learning centre of the brain.
Jacka, F.N et al, 2015
Kids who eat more vegetables perform significantly better in NAPLAN tests especially in reading, writing, and maths. Those with low veggie intake scored much lower.
Nyaradi, A et al, 2016
Insights on the Program’s Impact
Hear from one of our dedicated teachers who has implemented the program in their classroom. She shares her firsthand experience on how the program has positively impacted her students, increased engagement and fostered a healthier school environment.
Interested in delivering this program at your school? Book Linda to speak with your team.
The Importance of This Program
We can't ignore the facts any longer
Our modern western diet doesn't provide the nutrients our bodies need to thrive
65% of adolescents do not seek help for mental illness, highlighting the need for school-based wellness programs (Haapala et al., 2017).
70% of primary students feel low levels of hope, linked to dietary impacts on mood and cognitive function (Cook, 2018).
1 in 4 primary students experience high anxiety & depression, conditions that can improve with better nutrition (Ferrer-Cascales et al., 2019).
What The Program Offers
Online Community Hub
All program resources will be available through an exclusive online network for participating schools. This community hub provides ongoing access to updated materials, live and recorded video content and a space to ask questions, share experiences and connect with other schools. Schools will also have the opportunity to interact directly with local nutritionists for guidance and support.
NUTRITIONIST LESSONS FOR STUDENTS
In-school educational and interactive nutrition Lessons for Transition - Year 12
These interactive lessons, led by a real-life Nutritionist, are available live, via Zoom, or as recorded videos.
Essential topics include fussy eating, sugar's impact, processed foods, food label literacy, the five food groups, & nutrition for optimal learning
TEACHERS AND PARENTS PRESENTATIONS
These can be presented live or via 6 x 10-minute videos
These are designed to explain the links between various gut-brain and nutrition concepts in relation to teacher and student health, wellbeing, behavior and learning. They are based on the latest scientific research and are filled with inspirational case examples and practical steps to create lasting change.
CANTEEN AUDIT AND COMMENDATIONS
Be confident in your healthy canteen service
We offer a detailed assessment of your canteen menu by a registered nutritionist, with recommendations to enhance offerings and promote healthier choices for students. We can also provide guided mentoring by working one on one with your canteen staff to help them make the healthy changes with confidence.
INFORMATION PACKAGES
Additional resources to support the whole school community
Teachers and parents will have access to digital resources tailored to help keep them on track at home and in the classroom.
These resources include downloadable short videos, guides, worksheets, checklists, shopping lists, meal plans, and lunch box ideas, all specifically tailored to support both gut and brain health.
PRIVATE NUTRITION CONSULTATIONS IN SCHOOLS
Value add for your parents and offer In-school health consultations
Schools can offer 1:1 specialist support, easily accessible for teachers, parents, and students, either in-person in the Darwin region or via Telehealth
These consultations, tailored to individual needs & schedules, address specific health issues, including fussy eating.
TAILORED SUPPORT
Create the package your school needs
These services are designed to empower your school community with the knowledge and resources needed to foster a culture of health and well-being.
Choose the options that best suit your school’s goals and priorities and together let’s nurture healthier, happier students ready to achieve their full potential.
Program Inclusions
Online Community Hub
All program resources will be available through an exclusive online network for participating schools. This community hub provides ongoing access to updated materials, live and recorded video content, and a space to ask questions, share experiences, and connect with other schools. Schools will also have the opportunity to interact with local nutritionists for guidance and support.
Parent & Teacher Workshops
Empowering parents and teachers with practical tools to understand the vital connection between gut health and mental well-being.
Lessons For Students
Engaging and educational sessions designed to help students understand the connection between gut health and mental well-being. These lessons empower students with knowledge about how nutrition and lifestyle choices can impact their mood, focus, and overall health, fostering lifelong habits for success.
Information Packages
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES TO SUPPORT COMMUNITY EDUCATION
Teachers and parents will have access to a digital resources tailored to help keep them on track personally and in the classroom. These resources include downloadable guides, worksheets, checklists, shopping lists, meal plans and lunch box ideas, all specifically tailored to support both gut and brain health. These can be used in the classroom and in families homes.
Canteen Audit & Recommendations
BE CONFIDENT THAT YOU ARE TRULY PROVIDING A HEALTHY CANTEEN SERVICE
Healthy canteens promote the well-being and health of students by offering nutritious food choices that support their physical growth and development. By providing balanced meals and snacks, healthy canteens help ensure that students have access to the vitamins, minerals and energy they need to concentrate in class and perform well academically.
Healthy canteens play a crucial role in shaping lifelong eating habits. When children are exposed to nutritious options early on, they are more likely to make healthier choices throughout their lives. This helps reduce the risk of developing diet-related health problems such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease later in life.
A thorough assessment of your school canteen, conducted by a registered nutritionist, will evaluate the nutritional quality of the items served to your students and staff.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
1. Menu Evaluation
The nutritionist reviews the current canteen menu, examining each food item and beverage for its nutritional content. They assess factors such as fat, sugar, salt levels, and presence of beneficial nutrients like vitamins and minerals.
2. Nutritional Guidelines
The audit compares the menu items against established nutritional guidelines or standards for healthy eating. This may include guidelines set by government health authorities in your state or your specific school policies.
3. Ingredient Analysis
The nutritionist examines the ingredients used in food preparation to identify any potential additives, preservatives or allergens that may impact the nutritional value or suitability of the items.
4. Portion Sizes
The audit considers portion sizes offered to ensure they align with recommended serving sizes for different age groups and dietary needs.
5. Food Preparation Methods
Evaluation of cooking methods and preparation techniques used in the canteen to determine their impact on the nutritional quality of the food served.
6. Recommendations
Based on the findings, the nutritionist provides detailed recommendations to improve the nutritional quality of the canteen offerings. This may include suggestions for healthier ingredient substitutions, menu modifications and strategies to promote nutritious choices among students.
7. Education and Support
The audit can also include educational components for canteen staff, such as training on healthy food preparation and cooking, understanding nutrition labels and promoting healthier food options to students
Private Consultations
VALUE ADD FOR YOUR PARENTS & OFFER IN-SCHOOL HEALTH CONSULTATION SERVICES
Private health consultations in schools provide individuals the opportunity to receive personalised advice and recommendations from healthcare professionals at their convenience. These can address specific health concerns, dietary needs or lifestyle factors that may impact their well-being. Having this service also make it easier for families to get targeted support even identifying health issues early and provide early intervention strategies, preventing the escalation of health problems and stop their long-term progression into adulthood.
Tailored Support
CREATE THE PACKAGE YOUR SCHOOL NEEDS
These services are designed to empower your school community with the knowledge and resources needed to foster a culture of health and well-being. Choose the options that best suit your school’s goals and priorities. Work with me to help your school community thrive.
PLEASE NOTE:
∘ I can also assist you with designing appropriate surveys to assess the impact the program is having on your school.
∘ If you need assistance with applying for grant applications to purchase this program, I can help with that too.
Newsletter Videos & Articles
Stay informed and inspired with our newsletter, featuring insightful videos and articles on the powerful connection between gut health and mental well-being. Discover practical tips, expert advice, and the latest research to support healthier, happier lives for you and your community.
Presentations
Gut Brain Axis for Teachers Wellbeing
IT’S MORE THAN A GUT FEELING
School teachers are the backbone of our community, dedicating their lives
to shaping young minds and nurturing future generations. It’s crucial that
we prioritise their well-being, both physically and mentally, recognising
the immense responsibility they carry. One way we can do this is by
educating them on the importance of enhancing their gut-brain axis.
The gut-brain axis is a profound connection that illustrates how closely
our digestive system and brain communicate with each other. As we now
understand more deeply, what we eat directly impacts not only our physical
health but also our mental and emotional well-being. When teachers nourish
themselves with wholesome foods that support gut health, they are better
equipped to manage stress, maintain focus, and sustain their energy
throughout the day. This holistic approach to well-being not only benefits
teachers individually but also enhances their ability to create a positive
learning environment for their students.
Bellies, Bugs and Brains
GUT-BRAIN AXIS FOR CHILDREN
Understand the vital connections between the gut, brain, and gut
bacteria on your child’s well-being and academic success. Research
highlights that a healthy gut is crucial for optimal brain development and
cognitive function, affecting everything from mood and behavior to their
ability to learn effectively.
As caregivers, you play a pivotal role in nurturing your child’s gut health.
By learning about the importance of nutrition and its direct influence on
gut health, you can create a supportive environment at home that promotes
their overall well-being. Encouraging a diet rich in nutrients and
probiotics helps strengthen their immune system, potentially reducing the
number of sick days and ensuring they feel vibrant and energetic throughout
the school year.
Eat to Learn, Learn to Eat
OPTIMISING ACADEMIC SUCCESS WITH DIET
Many children are facing difficulties in learning, developing basic skills
and adapting effectively. Issues such as concentration and memory can
hinder their ability to reach their full potential.
Delve into the profound impact of diet on learning disorders, addressing
specific nutritional needs that can help overcome these challenges. We
will explore compelling research demonstrating how key nutrients can
enhance intelligence and improve measured learning outcomes, leading
to greater student success overall.
By understanding and implementing the right nutritional strategies, you
can support your child’s cognitive development, boost their academic
performance, and equip them with the tools to navigate academic
challenges more effectively.
How Food Affects Children’s Mental Health and Behaviour
HELPING THEM TO BE THEIR BEST
This presentation delves into essential nutritional needs crucial for child
development, particularly focusing on brain growth and functioning. We also
explore the profound impacts of today’s Standard Australian Diet (SAD) on
children and adolescents, including mood disorders such as depression and
anxiety, behavioral challenges like ADHD and aggression, as well as conditions
such as autism spectrum disorders.
Nutritional deficiencies play a critical role in affecting brain function and
overall well-being, highlighting the importance of understanding how dietary
choices can impact cognitive development. Drawing on extensive research, we
uncover how optimal nutrition can lay the groundwork for solid brain
foundations, enhance the function of crucial brain chemicals, and aid children
in managing the escalating pressures of modern life.
Introduction to Gut Health
GUT HEALTH FOR LONG TERM HEALTH
In the last twenty years, research has highlighted the crucial role of gut
health in shaping our overall well-being, influencing both physical health
and mental well-being. This presentation delves into the essential lifestyle
factors that deeply impact gut health, highlighting the critical need to
nurture a balanced gut microbiome.
Participants will discover practical strategies rooted in the latest research,
including dietary guidance that incorporates beneficial foods, prebiotics,
and probiotics. By embracing these insights, attendees will gain the tools to
enhance their gut health, laying the groundwork for increased physical vitality
and strengthened mental resilience. Together, let's empower ourselves with
knowledge that supports a healthier, more resilient life.
Tips and Tricks for Fussy Eating
END THE MEAL TIME BATTLES
An increasing number of children are developing dependencies on processed
foods that lack essential nutrients, ultimately hindering their ability to
flourish. Caregivers are equipped with vital knowledge on identifying,
preventing and addressing picky eating behaviors.
Participants will gain insights into identifying the underlying issues and
implementing effective strategies to overcome established fussiness. This
includes practical approaches such as dietary adjustments, optimizing their
environment and nurturing gut health. Together, we can empower children to
adopt healthier eating habits, supporting their overall growth and well-being.
Teachers Mental Health
In a report released by the Black Dog Institute, 60% of teacher absences in the previous month were due to a mental health or emotional problems. 52% of teachers reported moderate to extremely severe symptoms of depression compared to 12.1% in the general population. When it came to anxiety symptoms the figures were 46.2% compared to 9% and for stress, these figures came in at 59.7% compared to 11.4%.
- Black Dog Institute 2023
What Parents & Teachers Are Saying..
What Parents & Teachers Are Saying..
Helping to build resilient staff from the inside out!
"For our staff professional development day, I invited Linda Conder to speak about the importance of gut health and how it can affect our wellbeing and performance. The staff thoroughly enjoyed the workshop and were very interested in the connection between mental health and gut health.
Teaching is such a demanding job and schools are such dynamic workplaces which is why I wanted the staff to learn how looking after their gut health through healthy food and lifestyle choices can assist them to bring their A-game to work on a daily basis. It was also lovely for the staff to do some personal learning and to put themselves on the list of importance.
Linda was an engaging presenter and incredibly knowledgeable in nutrition in particular our focus on gut health. I have had staff mention to me how much they enjoyed and appreciated the workshop.
Thank you for helping inspire the staff, even if it is to make one lasting change, that is a step in the right direction."
Melinda Kealy
Principal Anula Primary School
Resource Samples
Explore some of our carefully crafted resources to get a firsthand look at how our Gut Feeling Program for Smart Schools can positively impact your students' health and academic performance. These resources are designed to be practical, engaging and easy to integrate, offering schools a valuable investment in their students’ well-being and success.
Why I Created This Program?
I’ve been a teacher for over 20 years, teaching science and witnessing firsthand the heartbreaking impact poor nutrition has on children.
Seeing the terrible state of lunchboxes and how it affects their learning, behavior, and overall health has been hard to watch.
I knew I had to do something about it! That’s why I created this school program—to empower schools, parents, and students with the knowledge and tools they need to build healthier futures.
Find out how Linda can support your school with evidence-based gut–brain education.
Darwin's only Nutritional Medicine Consultant specialising in gut–brain health.
QUICKLINKS
SERVICES
CONTACT DETAILS
Follow Us
Darwin's only Nutritional Medicine Consultant specialising in gut–brain health.
QUICKLINKS
SERVICES
CONTACT DETAILS
Follow Us
Copyright 2026. Linda Conder Gut Feeling
All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy
Terms of Service