Autism Spectrum Disorder: Some Additional Diet Tips
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a nervous system disorder that typically manifests in kids’ first three years of life. Social interaction and communication skills are affected significantly negatively by this disorder. Delays in speech, a lack of interest in playing with other children, and not wanting to be held or cuddled are some of the classic symptoms of autism. Neither genetics nor environment is known to cause ASD, but both are thought to play a role.
1. Autism spectrum disorder supplements
Vitamin and mineral supplement proponents assert that high doses are needed because of metabolic and biochemical abnormalities. It is well known that the most recommended dosages of the best multivitamin for autism are over the safe upper limit for children and even adults. There is not much information about the long-term effects of high doses of supplements in children.
A multivitamin and mineral supplement are recommended. Vitamins A, B, and C, folate, magnesium, and zinc are among them. Vitamins and minerals are not supported by sufficient evidence in the treatment of autism spectrum disorder. Insufficient dietary intake may necessitate their use when dietary intake is insufficient to meet recommended intakes.
The use of fish oil and other fats is recommended for people with autism spectrum disorder, as an omega-3 deficiency or an imbalance of omega-6 to omega-3 ratios may contribute to difficulties. Research on omega-3 supplementation for autism spectrum disorder has been limited.
2. Gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet
It is not medically proven that gluten-free, casein-free diets are beneficial for children with autism spectrum disorders. In removing gluten and casein from a child’s diet, vitamin D, the child’s calcium, and protein intake can affect mental, physical growth and bone health.
Gluten and casein, two proteins typically found in wheat and dairy products, are hypothesized to be harmful to children with autism spectrum disorder because of:
-Gluten and casein are not appropriately digested because they have digestive problems,
-These children have more porous intestines than others, allowing partially digested gluten and casein to leak into their intestinal tracts and cause behavioral, social, communicative, and cognitive problems.
Usually, kids’ immune systems are weak, resulting in allergic reactions to gluten and casein. Before starting this diet, parents should consult with their doctor and dietitian.
3. Elimination of food additives for autistic children
Rare and low-quality studies have been conducted on the effects of food additives on children with an autism spectrum disorder. These children could be affected by artificial food dyes, aspartame, and monosodium glutamate (MSG) additives.
Suppose parents of children with autism spectrum disorders wish to experiment with omitting food additives. There will be a bit of negative impact on the nutrition quality of the diet in that case, which falls in line with general guidelines for healthy eating. Parents should weigh the benefits of following this diet against further limiting their children’s food choices since children with ASD tend to self-limit their food choices.
4. Salicylates and phenols excluded from autism spectrum disorders
It is believed that these compounds can interfere with the body’s detoxification pathway, resulting in elevated levels of neurotransmitters, including serotonin.
Cheese, chocolate, yeast extracts, some food dyes, apples, avocados, blueberries, kiwi fruit, grapes, plums, and strawberries are sometimes excluded. The list excludes vegetables like cauliflower, cucumber, mushroom, radish, eggplant, spinach, tomato, broccoli, and nuts such as peanuts, pistachios, and almonds.
