Dietary Interventions with Autism

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According to the CDC, ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) seems to be common these days with instances of being diagnosed in 1 in every 54 children. This condition consists of a variety of challenges, such as abnormal social skills, communication problems, development delays and behavioural issues. Research suggests over 70% of children diagnosed with autism have at least one prevailing physical and mental condition and about 40% have two or more problems co-existing. Most children with autism have:

• 11-40% have anxiety
• 30-61% have ADHD
• Over 50% have sleep problems
• 7% have depression
• 16% are obese
• 32% are overweight

Children diagnosed with autism have 8 times more chances of developing gastrointestinal problems due to the tendency to eat more junk foods or picky eating habits. This shows food choices can have a high impact on the severity of autism symptoms among children. Not to mention the higher probability of contracting dental issues so the food choices need to be considered for the solution of these problems.

The food that you eat matters

It must be kept in mind that the food a person eats either acts as a poison or medicine. It is either helping your brain, mind, body or hurting them. Take a look at five top foods that can make ASD (autism) worse by the minute.

Dairy

When one of the proteins in dairy products such as casein mixes with stomach acids, it produces exorphins. Exorphins can react with the body and cause various types of health troubles such as inability to concentrate, brain fog, numbness or body pains etc.

Dairy is also considered as one of the most pro-inflammatory foods out there. Due to consumption of dairy products, autistic patients may develop inflammation in the abdomen and also get their immune system compromised.

So if you have a family member diagnosed with autism, try replacing dairy products in their diet with other alternatives such as almond milk, soy, etc. It has been observed that reducing dairy consumption among autism patients helped them begin talking more, reduce hyperactivity and resolve bowel problems.

Sugar

Not only is sugar a pro-inflammatory ingredient, it also makes the person addicted. The ongoing trend of drinking carbonated and fizzy drinks full of sugar content has made about 1 in every 10 people addicted to sugar. Researchers have observed that people with autism tend to develop type 2 diabetes, glucose intolerance and produce excessive levels of insulin as a result making the autism signs worse. Children with sugar addiction become more hyperactive and show inability to focus.

Avoiding sugar in all products and increasing the intake of protein consumption can improve judgement, concentration and decrease hyperactivity.

Gluten

Gluten is a mixture of proteins found in wheat, rye, barley etc. It can increase inflammation in the intestines when ingested. Moreover, if your body is allergic to gluten, it can produce antibodies to fight gluten which can severely damage the brain as well. According to research, ingesting gluten decreased the functioning of the cerebellum and made the autism symptoms worse.