According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is currently estimated that about one in every 110 children is diagnosed with autism. It is a complex developmental disorder that manifests in social and communication impairments, and other atypical behaviors. Currently the cause is unknown, but research suggests that diet may contribute to symptoms. Dietary interventions are available and should ideally be tailored to the individuals needs. An anti-yeast, or candida, diet is one such intervention that is used to improve symptoms of autism.
Yeast Overgrowth
According to Kenneth Bock, M.D., in his book "Healing the New Childhood Epidemics" yeast, or Candida, overgrowths are common in autistic individuals and are important to resolve as part of an integrative therapeutic strategy. A yeast overgrowth can harm the digestive tract and in turn allow food particles to cross the intestinal border resulting in adverse health reactions. In addition, the yeast may produce toxins that can cause mental or emotional disturbances. Some symptoms of a Candida overgrowth include bloating, thrush - white coating on the tongue, genital or vaginal itching or redness, nail fungus, congestion, memory and cognitive difficulties, fatigue, weight gain, and sugar or refined carbohydrate cravings. Typically, candida problems can be resolved through diet, medication and/or supplements.
Anti-Yeast Diet
The anti-yeast diet involves removing all foods that contain yeast and all foods that feed yeast growth. Foods that contain yeast include refined carbohydrates such as breads, bagels, crackers, pizza, alcohol, and generally most baked goods and processed snack foods. The categories of foods that stimulate Candida growth include sugar, molds and fungus. In this case, one should avoid sugary items, fruit juices, mushrooms, cheese and sugar-containing sauces to name a few. The list is extensive so be sure to consult your doctor or nutritionist before starting.
Effectiveness
It may take a couple weeks or a couple months to resolve the overgrowth. It depends on the individual and whether supplements or medications to remove yeast are also used. In addition, the yeast die-off may initially exacerbate symptoms for a period of time. According to the Autism Research Institute's Parent Ratings of Behavioral Effects of Biomedical Interventions, out of 1,141 parents who completed a questionnaire, 58 percent indicated that a Candida diet helped their autistic child.
Precautions
Due to the complexity of autism and the amount of traditional and alternative therapies available, it is best to seek guidance from a specialized doctor and nutritionist who are recommended from a local autism support group or national organization such as the Autism Research Institute. Dietary treatments typically need to be implemented along with other protocols in order for the best possible outcome. A knowledgeable practitioner can help you find the best combination of treatments for your needs.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Autism Spectrum Disorders Data and Statistics; 2010
- "Healing the New Childhood Epidemics Autism, ADHD, Asthma, and Allergies"; Kennith Bock, M.D., et al.; 2007
- Autism Research Association: What is Autism?
- Autism Research Institute; Parent Ratings of Behavorial Effects of Biomedical Interventions; 2009
