Why do you need nutrition programs for children with autism spectrum disorder? Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental and neurological condition that usually crops during the first three years of a child’s life. As such, there is a dire need for a food and nutrition program for children with ASD to help them manage the condition properly.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), one in every 54 children in the US has an autism disorder. Also, autism is approximately four times more prevalent among boys than in girls.
Symptoms of Autism in Children
Autism affects each child differently, and the symptoms usually range from mild to severe. However, the common signs to look out for include:
- Difficulty interacting and communicating with people
- Toe walking and hand flapping
- Unusual food preferences and disinterest in food
- Strange behaviors
- Challenges with motor skills include the inability to ride a bike, catch a ball, and pick up a small object
- Incapacity to construe or comprehend social cues, such as facial expressions
- Talking in strange ways like using odd patterns or pitches when speaking
Such symptoms hinder an autistic child from excelling in most public schools. If you’re facing this situation, choose a specialized school that offers a relevant education program for children with ASD.
Nutrition Programs for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Children with autism may have food preferences to limit consumption. They might also digest fat differently, meaning that they’ll lack certain nutrients.
The most common feeding problems in children with autism include:
- Inability to accept new diets
- Continuous eating instead of having specific meal times
- Limited consumption because of food texture, color, temperature, or packaging
- Difficulty with a changeover to tastes, specifically during the early years
Although more research is necessary, health experts have studied several nutrients and foods that aid in alleviating the symptoms of autism.
Please speak with your child’s physician, therapist, or dietician before introducing any supplements or making any meal plan changes. However, there are some natural nutrients for people with an autism spectrum disorder, as discussed below.
Casein- and Gluten-Free Diet
A diet that is free of casein and gluten can improve behaviors in children living with ASD. Casein is a protein in dairy products like yogurt, cow’s milk, and cheese. Gluten is a protein, mainly found in wheat. Other foods that contain high contents of gluten include triticale, rye, and barley.
Minerals and Vitamins
Since autistic children are habitually picky eaters, they’re usually low in iron. Nevertheless, refrain from giving your child iron supplements unless a doctor has confirmed their low iron levels. Multivitamins can also improve digestion and sleep problems in autistic children, especially if they aren’t eating a balanced diet.
Furthermore, magnesium and vitamin B6 supplements can improve behavior in people with autism.
Yeast-Free Foods
There is a close correlation between yeast overgrowth and “leaky gut” in autistic children. Therefore, eliminating yeast in diets is one of the useful nutrition programs for children with autism spectrum disorders.
Omega-3 Fats
Research shows that most children with autism have an omega-3 deficiency. This nutrient is particularly helpful in managing hyperactivity in people with autism.
Exclusion of Food Additives
Children with autism may not be able to withstand a range of additives, including:
- Artificial colors, such as Ponceau 4R (E124), Tartrazine (E102), Carmoisine (E122), and Sunset yellow (E110)
- Sodium Benzoate (E211)
- Aspartame
- Monosodium Glutamate (MSG)
The Takeaway
Perhaps you’ve read somewhere or heard that many supplements and diets could cure autism – avoid treatments that promise a cure as there is no scientific evidence to back such claims. Ensure scientific evidence supports the supplements, nutrition, and other medicines you select for your autistic loved one and treatment centers like EMIT therapeutics
Although dealing with a child or sibling with autism can be overwhelming, there are plenty of nutrition programs for children with autism spectrum disorders. Speak to a therapist today about a suitable children’s autism spectrum disorder treatment program for your child.
