Nutrition for Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Scientific Guide for Parents

Children with ASD often reject bitter or sour tastes. This preference can lead to obesity, diabetes and tooth decay.

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs) are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders whose features usually become apparent within the first three years of life. ASD is defined by core symptoms such as lack of social interaction/communication, restricted/repetitive behavior patterns. In addition, behavioral disorders and co-morbidities such as aggression, anxiety, impulsivity, hyperactivity, tantrums and self-harm are frequently observed. The most common gastrointestinal symptoms seen in children with ASD include chronic diarrhea, bloating, discomfort and bloating, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), excessive gas, constipation, fecal impaction, food reflux, and leaky gut syndrome. And so on. Over the past decade, early treatment and rehabilitation, including dietary management, have been key to successfully managing children with ASD. Dr. Mohd Amir, Senior Consultant, Neonatologist and Pediatrician, Cloud Nine Hospital Group, Gurgaon, Sector 14 describe two general approaches for dietary management of ASD.

additive approach

Children with ASD often reject bitter or sour tastes. This preference can lead to obesity, diabetes and tooth decay. Additionally, they are typically deficient in vitamin D, vitamin B12, vitamin C, calcium, zinc, and other micronutrients. Commonly used supplements include vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B12, and dietary fatty acids. (omega-3 fatty acids and cod liver oil), Melatonin, Folic Acid, Probiotics, L-Carnitine, Iron, Magnesium, Zinc, Copper. In addition, it is essential to include fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet of children with ASD and avoid sugary foods. Instead, avoid pesticides, preservatives, artificial ingredients, fast and processed foods, and focus on a natural and varied diet.

Restrictive/subtractive approach

It focuses on eliminating certain foods or foods from the diet. These foods are thought to cause allergies and food intolerances (such as casein and gluten). And it contributes to the symptoms of ASD.

1. GFCF Diet: A gluten-free, casein-free diet is used for children with ASD. This diet aims to eliminate the use of casein (dairy products) and gluten (wheat, barley, rye oats) from the diet. Some children with ASD suffer from symptoms such as: “leaky gut”, exhibit an intestinal permeability defect that allows the more important components of proteins or peptides to be directly absorbed. These peptides bind to opioid receptors in the brain and exacerbate ASD symptoms. Therefore, removing gluten and casein from the diet can help improve symptoms of ASD disease.
2. Ketogenic diet: Autistic behavior is thought to result from abnormal carbohydrate metabolism at the cellular level. Therefore, high in fat, low in carbohydrates, regulatory protein (GFCF) Known to cause symptoms of ASD. Because the ketogenic diet is often associated with poor growth, poor weight gain, and elevated cholesterol levels, it is imperative that this approach be used under the supervision of a registered dietitian or pediatrician.
3. Monosaccharides as dietary carbohydrates: As previously suggested, abnormalities in carbohydrate metabolism may increase symptoms of ASD. A diet centered on monosaccharides, the simplest form of carbohydrate, which can sometimes be useful. However, the effectiveness of such a diet may only be beneficial in exceptional circumstances where an enzyme deficiency may be responsible for her symptoms of ASD.

In summary

Although many studies have yielded many insights into the etiology and etiology of ASD, many aspects remain mysteries and challenges, and nutrition is one of the gray areas for such children. .Diets that are likely to be skipped casein and gluten You may benefit from multiple cases. Therefore, supplementing such children’s diets with micronutrients or trace elements is essential for a healthy effect of nutritional management.

The conclusion is

Therefore, further research is needed to explore more areas as far as nutrition is concerned.in all households with children with ASD, Careful monitoring of correct eating habits by the family pediatrician is therefore justified.