ROLE OF NUTRITION IN AUTISM

What is Autism?

Autism is a spectrum disorder of the brain involving a wide range of behavioural and communication complexities. The complexities include slurred speech, difficulty in standing upright, lack of sensory and visual perception, difficulty in interaction with others, indifference to others’ feelings, hyperactivity or obsessive behaviour, are a few examples of Autism Syndrome.

Possible Causes of Autism

There is no clinical evidence to show the causes of Autism, although genetic and environmental factors are suggested.

Environmental and Behavioural Factors

Role of Environmental Triggers

It is first important to understand the environmental factors to understand the behaviour of Autistic children. It is of paramount importance to check if there are any environmental factors contributing as a trigger to behavioural or tolerance deficiency. Caregivers also need to be careful in controlling the trigger factors and in providing Autistic children a congenial environment.

Nutritional Role in Autism

Importance of Nutrition

While external factors play a major role in Autism, the role of nutrition in Autism can also not be negated. New studies have shown that nutritional therapy really does make a big difference to children dealing with autism.

Common Gastrointestinal Issues

Autistic children are usually on antibiotics from an early stage; therefore, they suffer from bowel irregularities. They also suffer from diarrhoea, gastroenteritis, constipation, GERD, etc. Apart from these various food allergies and nutritional deficiencies, they are a part of Autism.

What is the Best Diet for Children with Autism?

Dietary Adjustments and Supplements

There is no fixed formula, but controlling certain proteins and giving certain nutritional supplements can relieve the symptoms. For example, giving children a gluten-free diet helps to control their hyperactivity. This helps in keeping blood sugar under check.

Gut Health and Probiotics

ASD Children with ASD routinely suffer from a weak gut. Therefore, restoring a healthy gut is vital. Giving digestive enzymes and Probiotics is a good option. Probiotics have good bacteria that can improve the microflora in the GI tract. ASD children usually have irregular GI flora, and when they routinely intake probiotics, their bowel movement can improve.

Essential Fats and Brain Health

Our brain cell membranes need essential fats to function. In Autistic children, enzymatic defect depletes these essential fats at a faster rate, so one needs to provide a higher dose of essential fats like Omega 3 fatty acids to these children dealing with Autism vis-à-vis other children. It has been found that increasing essential fat intake improves mood swings, behavioural and sleep patterns.

Vitamin and Mineral Support

Increasing Vitamins and Minerals like vitamin B6, C and magnesium supplements improves symptoms of Autism.

Food Sensitivities and Whole-Food Meal Planning

Caregivers should be mindful of the food allergies specific to each child and try to avoid giving those foods.

Finally, to control nutritional deficiencies, it is important to formulate a whole-foods meal plan. This plan is very individual-based, catering to the specific needs of each child. It is always advised to stay away from artificial food ingredients and preservatives, limit pesticide exposure, and avoid processed foods.

Summary of Nutritional Strategy

The Bottom line for the application of a full Nutritional Strategy for Autistic children is to have a balanced, wholesome food intake of proper vitamins and nutritional supplements, and avoid excess sugar and processed food.

Beyond Conventional Methods: Is There Another Way to Treat Autism?

Stem Cell Therapy and Autism

Yes, Modern Science has given humanity the greatest gift ever of “Adult Stem Cell”. These stem cells are the very basic cells of our body, which are capable of giving rise to many cells if guided by a proper technique. Contemporary medical sciences have exploited this remarkable potential to treat a variety of medical conditions. Autism Spectrum disorder is one of them.