Why Are Kids So Sick Today? The 5 Things Every Parent Needs To Know | Dr. Tony Ebel

In this episode, Dr. Josh Axe sits down with Dr. Tony Ebel, pediatric chiropractor and founder of PX Docs, to explore why so many children today are struggling with autism, ADHD, anxiety, sensory issues, gut problems, sleep challenges, PANS/PANDAS, seizures, allergies, and chronic immune dysfunction. Dr. Ebel argues that many kids are not simply sick because of genetics, toxins, or diet alone — but may be stuck in a deeper pattern of nervous system dysregulation and sympathetic dominance, also known as chronic fight-or-flight. Dr. Ebel explains how early stressors like birth trauma, C-sections, forceps, vacuum extraction, antibiotics, toxin exposure, poor digestion, and chronic inflammation may contribute to what he calls the “perfect storm” behind modern childhood health issues. He also breaks down why the vagus nerve, parasympathetic nervous system, brainstem, movement, sleep, bowel function, and breath are critical clues for whether a child’s body is ready to heal. The conversation also covers Dr. Ebel’s recommended order of healing: first regulating the nervous system, then layering in movement-based therapies, clean nutrition, toxin reduction, dental and airway support, and addressing secondary infections when the body is ready. He shares why doing too much too soon — including aggressive detoxes, parasite cleanses, herbs, or supplements — can sometimes overwhelm children whose nervous systems are already exhausted. Dr. Ebel also shares the emotional story of his son Oliver, who doctors said had only a 20% chance of surviving to age one and a 99% chance of epilepsy, autism, or cerebral palsy if he lived. What happened next became the foundation for the protocol he now uses to help children around the world.