Asperger's syndrome is a disorder of development characterized by impairment in social function and the ability to communicate. Often referred to as a "high-functioning" version of autism, Asperger's affects males more often than females and can lead to feelings of isolation due to limitations in communication and interests. With behavioral and psychotherapeutic interventions, many people with Asperger's syndrome can learn to cope with the disorder and live independently as adults. Some people with Asperger's and parents of children with Asperger's think diet plays a role in the manifestation of symptoms such as gastrointestinal problems. Check with your doctor or pediatrician before making significant changes to your diet or your child's diet.
Gluten-Free Diet
Gluten is a type of protein that occurs naturally in wheat and can cause problems for some people, including those with celiac disease. A gluten- and casein-free diet also excludes the protein found in milk and milk products. A review of literature regarding gluten-free diets and Asperger's, published in the 2009 issue of "Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders," found that current research fails to support any association. Use of this type of diet remains popular, however, and some parents claim removing gluten and casein from their children's diet has decreased behavioral problems associated with Asperger's syndrome. Check with your doctor or pediatrician before using or putting your child on a gluten- or casein-free diet.
Candida Diet
The candida or yeast-free diet, according to Dr. James F. Balch in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," helps control an overgrowth of fungus in your body that can cause problems for sensitive individuals. This overgrowth, the website says, can cause an adult or child with Asperger's to have problems controlling behavior or ability to focus. Balch's book recommends testing any child or adult with a possible reaction to candida overgrowth for allergies, because they tend to occur more frequently in people with this condition. Foods that are avoided in the yeast-free diet include breads made with yeast, fermented foods and citrus fruits.
Elimination Diet
An elimination diet such as the Feingold Diet is used to address problems thought to be caused by an allergy to food additives or foods that commonly cause allergies, such as corn or milk. According to the Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America (CFIDS), this diet is administered by avoiding all potential sources of allergic response for five to 10 days. After this period, potentially problematic foods are added one at a time, and the subsequent response is monitored. This dietary approach has produced mixed results in research; however, a 1995 study published in "Panminerva Medicine" found a significant decrease in neurologic symptoms in infants with autism who were fed an elimination, milk-free diet for two months.
Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids, which include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, are fats your body can't manufacture without an outside food source. Asperger Advice says essential fats are necessary for the proper functioning of your brain, and children who have autism and related problems have lower levels of essential fats in their blood. Essential fatty acid supplements are available at your local health food store, but you and your child can increase your intake of these fats by eating certain foods. These foods, which include salmon, sardines and flaxseeds, are also a part of a heart-healthy diet that can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Check with your doctor before using an essential fatty acid supplement.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Asperger Syndrome - All Information
- "Research in Autism Spectrum Disorders"; Gluten-Free and Casein-Free Diets in the Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Systematic Review; Austin Mulloy, et al.; 2009
- The Chronic Fatigue and Immune Dysfunction Syndrome Association of America:Treatment: Elimination Diet
- "Panminerva Medicine": Food Allergy and Infantile Autism
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Essential Fatty Acids
- Aspergers Resources: Glutein-Free Diet
