Gut Health for Kids: The Secret to Better Brain, Mood, and Behavior
As parents, nurturing your child’s mental and emotional wellness means looking beyond the obvious—straight into their gut. Kids gut health plays a pivotal role in brain development and behavior. In fact, the gut and brain are in constant communication via the gut-brain axis, and a healthy gut can positively shape your child’s mood, focus, and overall behavior. By prioritizing gut health for kids – through a nutrient-rich diet, collagen peptides, and complete proteins like whey – you can lay the foundation for their lifelong wellness.
The Powerful Gut-Brain Connection in Children
Your child’s gut and brain are intimately connected. The digestive system even has its own “second brain” of neural circuitry (the enteric nervous system) that communicates with the brain in the head. This communication happens through the vagus nerve and chemical messengers such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA – remarkably, a large portion of these neurotransmitters are produced in the gut (about 90–95% of serotonin is made in the gut by our beneficial bacteria). What does this mean for your child? An imbalance in the gut (dysbiosis) can send distress signals to the brain, potentially leading to mood swings, anxiety, trouble concentrating, and even behavioral issues.
Emerging research shows a clear link between gut microbes and childhood behavior and mood. If the gut is irritated or inflamed, it may trigger changes in a child’s mood and cognitive function. Conversely, supporting kids gut health can improve their emotional resilience. For example, some studies find that balancing the gut microbiome (e.g. with collagen or diet changes) may boost mood, lower stress, and improve focus in children. The gut-brain connection is powerful, and it highlights why caring for gut health in kids is truly caring for their mind and behavior.
Why Gut Health Is Crucial for Kids
Children’s brains and gut microbiomes develop together, especially in the early years. Disruptions in the gut during infancy and childhood have been linked to neurological and developmental issues later on. Researchers have found that an imbalanced gut flora in the first year of life is associated with a higher risk of conditions like ADHD and autism spectrum disorder as children get older. In one long-term study, babies with certain gut bacteria imbalances (often caused by factors like early antibiotic use) were more likely to be diagnosed with autism or ADHD by school age.
The implications are profound: protecting and nurturing kids gut health early may help support healthy brain development and even potentially reduce the risk of neurodevelopmental issues. Even for children without specific conditions, a balanced gut can mean better mood regulation, less anxiety, and sharper cognitive function. In short, gut health for kids is crucial for helping them feel emotionally stable, focused, and happy. By paying attention to nutrition (and, as we’ll discuss, supplements like collagen and complete proteins), parents can positively influence their child’s gut microbiome – and by extension, their brain health – during these critical development years.
Common Threats to Kids Gut Health
Modern lifestyles and diets can take a toll on children’s gut health. Here are some of the most common threats that could be undermining your kid’s gut health and, in turn, their mood and behavior:
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Ultra-Processed Foods and Additives: Many packaged snacks and convenience foods contain artificial additives, preservatives, and emulsifiers that can irritate the gut lining and disrupt the balance of gut bacteria. Studies have linked a high intake of ultra-processed foods with increased inflammation and even higher rates of depression and anxiety. In children, diets loaded with processed foods may contribute to erratic behavior and mood swings due to gut dysbiosis.
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Lectins and “Anti-Nutrients”: Certain compounds in foods – for example, lectins in some grains and legumes – can be harsh on sensitive guts. In susceptible individuals, lectins can bind to the gut lining and increase intestinal permeability (the so-called “leaky gut”). This may lead to inflammation and poor nutrient absorption. While many kids tolerate lectin-containing foods just fine (especially when properly cooked), those with gut issues might experience improvement by reducing foods like wheat or soy that are high in hard-to-digest lectins.
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Artificial Sweeteners & Food Dyes: Artificial sweeteners (found in diet drinks, sugar-free treats, etc.) are not benign for the gut microbiome – research shows they can reduce beneficial bacteria and even increase bacteria that produce toxins. This disruption in gut flora may contribute to inflammation and metabolic changes. Likewise, synthetic food colorings have been linked to hyperactivity and behavior problems in some children. A California report confirmed that certain artificial dyes can cause or worsen hyperactive behavior in susceptible kids. Inflammation, mood swings, and trouble concentrating have all been tied to these artificial additives.
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Antibiotics and Medications: Antibiotics can be lifesaving when needed, but they also wipe out both bad and good bacteria in the gut. Frequent or early antibiotic use can create a state of dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) in the gut, which researchers suspect is linked to higher risks of conditions like anxiety, obesity, and even developmental disorders. One study noted that infants who received multiple courses of antibiotics had a higher likelihood of later gut-related issues and neurodevelopmental diagnoses, possibly because antibiotics disturbed their gut flora during a critical period. Other medications such as acid reflux drugs or NSAIDs can also affect the gut lining or microbiome over time. Of course, use medications when necessary for your child’s health – just be mindful of gut health restoration (e.g. via collagen and diet) afterward.
By being aware of these threats to kids gut health, parents can take steps to minimize them. That might mean choosing more whole foods over processed snacks, avoiding artificial sweeteners and dyes in your child’s diet, and supporting their gut with collagen-rich foods especially after any antibiotic course. Next, we’ll explore one of the most powerful nutritional tools for repairing and strengthening the gut lining: collagen.
Collagen for Gut Health: Why It Matters for Kids
When it comes to healing and strengthening the gut, collagen is a superstar protein that deserves a place in your child’s diet. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body – it makes up roughly 30% of all the protein in our bodies, acting like the “glue” that holds our structure together. It’s a critical component of skin, bones, muscles, tendons, and importantly, the intestinal lining. If a child isn’t getting enough collagen (or the nutrients to produce it), their gut lining can weaken, since collagen provides much of the structural integrity of the GI tract. This is one reason many kids today have sensitive tummies or food sensitivities; their gut lining may be more fragile than it should be.
Collagen is essential to being a healthy human – even though our bodies make some collagen, we rely on dietary sources to replenish what is used and lost. Without sufficient collagen, several systems start to suffer: skin can become dry or less elastic, joints may get achy or “creaky,” hair and nails might become brittle, and importantly, the gut’s protective lining can deteriorate, contributing to leaky gut and inflammation. In fact, as we age past our mid-20s, the body’s own collagen production begins to decline (by about 1% less each year) – which is why we associate collagen with anti-aging. But collagen isn’t just for skin and joints in grandma and grandpa; it’s hugely important for growing children too, who are building collagen-rich tissues at a rapid pace.
You might find it interesting (or even funny) that even strict vegans sometimes supplement with collagen because it’s that important for health. A notable example is the longevity entrepreneur Bryan Johnson, who follows a highly disciplined plant-based diet yet makes an exception to include two animal-based supplements: collagen and creatine. He reportedly spends $2M a year trying to stay biologically young, and collagen is one of his must-haves despite his vegan ethos! (When a dedicated vegan biohacker breaks his own rules for collagen, you know it’s important 🤣.) While most of us aren’t biohacking millionaires, this anecdote underscores that collagen isn’t easily replaced by plant substitutes – it’s a unique and vital protein.
Modern diets often don’t provide enough collagen. Our ancestors ate “nose-to-tail,” consuming collagen-rich parts like bone broth, cartilage, and organ meats regularly. Today, children enjoy boneless chicken tenders and peeled apples – nutritious in some ways, but lacking the collagen our bodies evolved to expect. This collagen gap in modern diets means even kids eating an omnivorous diet might not get optimal collagen (since we tend to discard or avoid the chewy, gristly bits that are rich in collagen). For vegetarian or picky-eater kids, the gap could be even wider.
That’s where collagen supplements or collagen-enriched foods can help fill the void and boost kids gut health. High-quality collagen peptide supplements provide the building blocks (amino acids) needed to repair and maintain a healthy intestinal lining. Collagen is composed primarily of three key amino acids: glycine, proline, and glutamine/glutamic acid (plus hydroxyproline). These have special roles in gut and overall health:
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Glycine – a soothing amino acid that calms inflammation and even improves sleep quality. Glycine has been shown to reduce chronic low-grade inflammation by decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokines and boosting the body’s anti-inflammatory signals. This is great for an inflamed gut. Additionally, glycine is known to promote better sleep and relaxation when taken at bedtime (some studies found kids with ADHD have lower glycine levels, suggesting it helps with calming). A child who sleeps well and has less inflammation is going to have a healthier gut and a better mood!
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Proline – an amino acid critical for tissue repair and regeneration. Proline is a major component of collagen fibers and helps the body rebuild damaged cells in the gut lining (and skin, joints, etc.). Think of proline as a construction worker that helps reinforce the gut’s barrier. When kids get cuts or scrapes, proline in collagen also supports faster wound healing. Growing children need ample proline to keep up with their body’s repair demands.
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Glutamine – the favorite fuel of the cells in your gut. Glutamine literally feeds the enterocytes (gut lining cells), giving them energy to regenerate and maintain tight junctions (which prevent leaky gut). It’s well-documented that glutamine supplementation can strengthen intestinal barrier function, especially under stress (e.g. illness or intense exercise). Glutamine is also a precursor for the calming neurotransmitter GABA. In the body, glutamine can be converted into glutamate and then into GABA, which helps promote calm and stable mood. In essence, glutamine from collagen not only nourishes the gut lining but may also support the production of calming brain chemicals.
By incorporating collagen (rich in these gut-healing amino acids) into your child’s nutrition, you enhance their gut lining integrity and resilience. In fact, scientific studies have begun to demonstrate this: for example, giving collagen peptides has been shown to repair damaged intestinal mucosa and improve tight junction integrity in models of gut inflammation. Collagen truly acts like a soothing balm for the digestive tract – sealing up the gut barrier, reducing inflammation, and aiding digestion
One thing to note is that not all collagen supplements are equal. Most mainstream collagen powders are derived from bovine hide (cow skin) and provide predominantly Type I and III collagen. These types are beneficial (great for skin, tendons, and basic gut support), but they don’t include Type II collagen, which is found in cartilage and is especially helpful for joint health and additional gut lining support. If you only take Types I & III, it’s a bit of a one-dimensional solution to a multi-system problem. Some advanced collagen products (including the one we formulated for our family) include collagen from cartilage sources like trachea and eggshell membrane, which provide Type II collagen and additional cofactors. This “full spectrum” collagen more closely resembles what you’d get from true nose-to-tail nutrition – supporting not just skin and gut, but also joints, ligaments, and wound healing with extra nutrients. The takeaway for parents is: choose a high-quality collagen supplement for your child, ideally one that is clean, grass-fed, and if possible multi-sourced, so your kiddo gets the broadest benefit.
Complete Proteins and Vitamin C: A Gut-Health Power Duo
While collagen is fantastic, it works even better in conjunction with other nutrients. Two key partners are vitamin C and complete proteins (like whey protein isolate). Let’s explore why combining these with collagen creates a winning formula for kids gut health
Vitamin C is crucial for collagen. The body cannot form collagen properly without sufficient vitamin C. This vitamin is a required cofactor for the enzymes that stabilize and cross-link collagen fibers. In fact, vitamin C deficiency (scurvy) leads to impaired collagen synthesis, causing weak connective tissues, poor wound healing, joint pain, and other issues. Children typically get vitamin C from fruits and veggies, but to ensure any collagen they consume is effectively used to rebuild their gut lining (and other tissues), pairing it with vitamin C is smart. Vitamin C acts like the activation key that turns on collagen-building in the body. This is why you’ll often see skincare products combining collagen and vitamin C – and the same logic applies internally. Punchies understood this, and that’s why their formula includes vitamin C along with collagen (more on Punchies soon).
Complete proteins provide the full spectrum of essential amino acids that growing children need for overall health, including brain function. Collagen on its own is considered an “incomplete” protein because it lacks tryptophan (one of the essential amino acids). That’s not a problem if collagen is part of a varied diet, but if you really want to make a snack count, combining collagen with a complete protein like whey protein isolate is ideal. Whey isolate is a clean, milk-derived protein that is rich in all essential amino acids (including those critical for neurotransmitters, like tryptophan for serotonin and tyrosine for dopamine)
For gut and brain health, this combo is gold:
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Whey protein supports muscle growth and immune function in kids, and provides amino acids that help produce neurotransmitters for a balanced mood. For example, the tryptophan in whey can be used to make serotonin (the “happy hormone”), supporting a positive mood and good sleep. Whey is also quickly absorbed and easy to digest in isolate form, so most kids tolerate it well (it’s low in lactose).
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Collagen peptides in the mix specifically target the gut lining and connective tissues as we discussed, providing glycine, proline, glutamine and more for gut repair and calm.
By blending collagen with whey, you get a complete protein profile – meaning each serving has everything the body needs to build and repair proteins. This is especially important if the protein source is a snack or supplement, because you want it to count toward your child’s daily protein needs for growth. Many parents struggle to get enough high-quality protein into picky eaters; a collagen+whey combo can help bridge that gap
To recap this power duo: Collagen peptides heal and seal the gut lining, while whey’s complete amino acids fuel the brain and body, and vitamin C ensures maximum collagen utilization. Together, they stabilize mood, bolster gut integrity, and support cognitive function by giving a child’s body exactly what it needs to thrive.
Punchies Protein Gummies – A Gut-Healthy Snack Kids Love
All this talk of collagen and whey might have you wondering how to get your child to consume them. After all, spooning bone broth or chalky powders into a finicky kid isn’t always easy. That’s where Punchies Protein Gummies come in – a parent-designed solution to make gut health for kids both fun and delicious
Punchies Protein Gummies are unlike any typical gummy or snack on the market. Each serving packs 5 grams of premium protein derived from grass-fed collagen peptides and whey protein isolate, along with a boost of Vitamin C for synergy. These gummies were formulated specifically to support kids gut health and mental wellness in a convenient treat. Here’s why Punchies gummies are a game-changer for busy parents and growing kids:
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Complete Protein + Collagen: Every serving provides a complete amino acid profile (thanks to the whey isolate) and the gut-healing collagen peptides. This means your child is not just getting a protein boost for growth, but also the collagen to strengthen their gut lining, joints, skin, and more. It’s a complete protein snack that works on multiple fronts.
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Gut-Friendly and Clean Ingredients: Punchies are free from artificial sweeteners, dyes, or inflammatory additives. You won’t find high-fructose corn syrup, artificial colors, or chemical preservatives here – all those gut-unfriendly ingredients we warned about are purposely left out. The gummies are naturally flavored and low in sugar, so you can feel good about giving them to your child. No hidden nasties that could upset their tummy or behavior.
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Easy to Digest: Both collagen and whey isolate are gentle on digestion and highly bioavailable. Many protein snacks (like bars) can be dense or contain fibers that cause bloating; Punchies gummies are formulated to be easy on little tummies. Collagen, in particular, can aid digestion by helping gastric mucosa, and we use a hydrolyzed collagen that is readily absorbed. We’ve heard from parents that even kids with sensitive stomachs handle Punchies well.
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Kid-Approved Taste and Texture: Let’s face it – the healthiest food means nothing if your child won’t eat it. Punchies gummies have a yummy fruity taste and a fun gummy texture that kids absolutely love (our own kids often remind us when it’s “Punchies time”!). They feel like a treat, so your child is happy to have their “protein candy,” and you’re happy knowing it’s actually nourishing them. It’s a win-win replacement for less healthy snacks or candies.
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Convenient and On-the-Go: Whether as a quick breakfast protein boost, a lunchbox addition, or an after-dinner treat, Punchies are super convenient. No mixing, no mess – just grab a packet of gummies. This makes it much more likely that the habit of supporting gut health for kids will stick. Consistency is key for health benefits, and having an easy format ensures your child gets their collagen and protein daily.
In summary, Punchies Protein Gummies take the heavy lifting out of gut-healthy snacking. They deliver the collagen (with vitamin C) and complete proteins that we know are vital for gut and brain health, in a clean-label gummy that kids eagerly eat. For parents who want to prioritize gut health for their kids but struggle with time or picky eaters, Punchies is a practical solution. (Plus, they’re made here in the USA with rigorous quality standards, so you can trust their safety and purity.
Shop Punchies – If you’re curious to try them, check out the flavors and read reviews from other parents.
Final Thoughts: Prioritizing Your Child’s Gut Health
Focusing on gut health for kids is one of the best investments you can make in your child’s future. By nurturing a healthy gut environment, you are supporting their physical health (strong immunity, comfortable digestion), cognitive development, and emotional well-being. Remember that the gut is often called the “second brain” – a balanced gut can mean a happier, sharper child
Small changes can yield big results. Start by incorporating gut-friendly foods: yogurt or kefir, fiber from fruits and veggies, and collagen-rich bone broth or gelatin treats. Consider adding a targeted supplement like collagen (with vitamin C and whey for completeness) to really fortify that gut lining. And be mindful of the common gut disruptors – limit those artificial additives and ultra-processed items that we know can stir up trouble in little bellies
As a parent, you have the opportunity to set the foundation for your child’s lifelong wellness. Emphasizing collagen peptides and complete proteins in their diet can support a sturdy gut lining, a balanced microbiome, and a stable mood. The benefits might show up as a child who is sick less often, has more even keel behavior, or performs better at school because they can focus and feel good. Over the long run, these habits translate into stronger growth and development and possibly lower risk of chronic issues
In essence, prioritizing gut health for your kids is an act of love that protects not just their tummy, but their mind and body too. With tasty solutions like Punchies Protein Gummies available, taking care of gut health has never been easier or more kid-friendly. Here’s to happy tummies and happy kids!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is gut health important for kids?
A: Gut health directly affects children’s brain development, immune system, mood regulation, and behavior. A balanced gut microbiome produces neurotransmitters and vitamins that support cognitive function and calm mood. Conversely, an imbalanced gut can release signals that contribute to anxiety, hyperactivity, or difficulty focusing. Essentially, a healthy gut helps kids to feel better emotionally and to learn and grow optimally.
Q: How do collagen peptides improve kids gut health?
A: Collagen peptides supply critical amino acids (like glycine and glutamine) that literally rebuild and reinforce the gut lining. Glycine reduces inflammation in the GI tract and supports better sleep, while glutamine fuels the intestinal cells and helps seal up any “leaky” spots in the gut barrier. By repairing gut integrity, collagen can improve digestion and nutrient absorption. Many parents report that adding collagen leads to fewer tummy aches, more regular bowel movements, and even improvements in their child’s mood and skin – all signs of better gut health
Q: What are signs of poor gut health in kids?
A: Some common signs include chronic tummy discomfort (frequent stomachaches, bloating or constipation/diarrhea), excessive gas, and reflux. But the signs can also be behavioral: mood swings, irritability, difficulty concentrating, skin rashes or eczema (which often link back to the gut), frequent illnesses (suggesting low immunity), and even sleep disturbances. Food sensitivities or intolerances can be both a cause and result of poor gut health. If your child is often on antibiotics or eats a very processed diet, they might also be at risk for gut imbalance, even if obvious symptoms haven’t appeared yet.
Q: Are protein gummies beneficial for kids gut health?
A: Yes – if they are formulated with gut-friendly ingredients (and not loaded with sugar or junk). For example, Punchies Protein Gummies are designed with kids gut health in mind. They contain complete proteins and collagen peptides that support a healthy gut lining and balanced neurotransmitters. Unlike typical sugary gummies, they have no artificial dyes or sweeteners that would harm the microbiome. Instead, they deliver nutrients that bolster the gut. Protein gummies like these can be an easy, tasty way to get extra collagen and protein into a child who might not consume enough through meals, thus helping their gut (and overall health) in the process.
References:
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Arpana Gupta, PhD – UCLA Health: “Animal and human studies show us that the brain and gut microbiome are intimately connected… Up to 95% of serotonin is produced in the gut.”uclahealth.org
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Johns Hopkins Medicine – The Brain-Gut Connection: “Irritation in the gastrointestinal system may send signals to the central nervous system that trigger mood changes.”hopkinsmedicine.org
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Linköping University News (2024) – “Disturbed gut flora during the first years of life is associated with diagnoses such as autism and ADHD later in life… antibiotic treatment during the first year is linked to an increased risk of these diseases.”liu.se
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UCLA Health – “Studies show a connection between highly processed foods and depression and anxiety… Ultra-processed foods (sodas, snacks, candy, fast food) have been clearly linked to depression.”uclahealth.org
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UC Berkeley (2021) – “Consumption of synthetic food dyes can cause hyperactivity and other neurobehavioral issues in some children.”publichealth.berkeley.edu
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HealthDay News (2024) – “Artificial sweeteners are not benign for the microbiome of the gut… they reduced the richness of bacteria in the gut and even led to higher levels of toxin-producing bacteria.”powershealth.org
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Food Science & Nutrition Journal (2023) – “Lectins can increase intestinal permeability and increase immune activation.”pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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Cleveland Clinic – “Collagen accounts for about 30% of your body’s total protein. It’s a primary building block of skin, bones, and intestinal lining… Signs of collagen loss include gastrointestinal problems due to thinning of the digestive tract lining.”my.clevelandclinic.org
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Chris Kresser, M.S. – “Our ancestors consumed collagen-rich parts of animals as part of nose-to-tail eating. Modern diets focused on muscle meats have created a collagen gap that supplements can help address.”chriskresser.com
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Dr. Brad Stanfield – “Glycine helps reduce chronic low-level inflammation… decreasing pro-inflammatory markers and boosting anti-inflammatory ones.”drstanfield.com
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Frontiers in Neuroscience (2020) – “GABA neurons can convert absorbed glutamine into glutamate, and then into GABA… GABA acts on the next neuron (calming effect).”frontiersin.org
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NIH Office of Dietary Supplements – “Vitamin C is required for the biosynthesis of collagen… Collagen is an essential component of connective tissue, vital for wound healing. In vitamin C deficiency, collagen synthesis becomes impaired and connective tissues weaken.”ods.od.nih.gov
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npj Science of Food (Nature, 2023) – “Combined with previous studies, collagen peptides were shown to improve gut microbiota imbalance in mice with colitis by … repairing the damaged intestinal mucosa and intestinal barrier.”
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Flawless Bloom Nutrition – “By age 25, collagen drops by ~1% each year… Without enough collagen, your body breaks down. This protein makes up 30% of all protein in your body.”flawlessbloom.com
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