Autism is a developmental disorder that develops within the first few years of a child's life. Since autism is linked to abnormal brain chemistry and biology, it affects your child's communication and social skills. The cause remains unknown, and abnormal chromosome, language and nervous system problems often affect family members of autistic children, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Though dietary techniques for autism remain controversial, a healthy diet can support your child's wellness and, potentially, reduce autism symptoms.
Nutrient-Rich Diet
A nutrient-rich diet emphasizes foods rich in vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, lean protein and/or dietary fiber. According to "Eating for Autism: The 10-Step Nutrition Plan to Help Treat Your Child's Autism, Asperger's, or ADHD," by Elizabeth Strickland and Suzanne McCloske, poor dietary habits are common among children with autism. This is problematic for all children and even more so when your child has difficulty with cognitive, social or other important functions. Consuming too few nutrients increases your child's risk for lethargy, cognitive problems and digestive complications. Strickland and McCloske recommend a diet based upon nutritious foods, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources and healthy fats. Omega-3 fats may provide particular benefits, since they are known to enhance brain function. Valuable sources of omega-3 fats include fatty fish, such as albacore tuna, salmon, halibut and flounder, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil and walnuts. Limit your child's intake of fast foods and processed foods for additional benefits.
Gluten-Free Diet
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. According to "Gluten-Free for a Healthy Life," by Kimberly A. Tessmer, some children with autism benefit from a gluten-free diet. To determine whether a gluten-free diet is appropriate for your child, Tessmer recommends a three-month trial period during which all gluten-containing foods are eliminated. If your child shows improvements, he or she may fare best from continual elimination of gluten. A healthy gluten-free diet incorporates healthy foods from all food groups, including gluten-free bread, pasta, cereals and snack foods that supply necessary vitamins, minerals and fiber your child may lack by avoiding gluten. Healthy gluten-free grains include brown rice, wild rice, air-popped popcorn and gluten-free oats and whole grain corn. Gluten-free rice and corn-based cold cereals provide healthy alternatives to gluten-containing cereals, such as bran flakes, raisin bran, shredded wheat and puffed wheat. Fruits, vegetables, legumes, fish, lean meat, eggs, poultry, nuts and plant-based oils are naturally gluten-free, yet rich in nutrients. Since restrictive diets for autism lack evidence of effectiveness, seek your doctor's guidance before altering your child's diet.
Casein-Free Diet
Casein is a protein found in dairy products. Though not all health practitioners agree and study finds are mixed, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some parents find that removing casein from their child's diet results in fewer autism symptoms. In many cases, casein and gluten are removed simultaneously. If you feel that casein may be contributing to your child's symptoms, talk to you doctor about removing casein from his or her diet. Foods containing casein include milk, cheese, yogurt, sour cream, whipping cream, ice cream and frozen yogurt as well as foods containing milk-derivatives, such as dried milk powder, whey protein and milk solids. Since dairy products are a major source of calcium, vitamin D and protein, incorporate other sources of these nutrients into your child's diet for optimum wellness. Non-dairy sources of calcium and vitamin D include fish, seafood, fortified breads and cereals, soy products and certain nuts and vegetables. Non-dairy sources of lean protein include fish, lean meat and poultry, tofu, egg whites and legumes.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Autism Information
- "Eating for Autism: The 10-Step Nutrition Plan to Help Treat Your Child's Autism, Asperger's, or ADHD"; Elizabeth Strickland, Suzanne McCloske; 2009
- "Gluten-Free for a Healthy Life"; Kimberly Tessmer; 2003
- Mayo Clinic: Special Diets for Autism
