We have known since the 1970s that a nutritional approach can help autism, thanks to the pioneering research by Dr Bernard Rimland of the Institute for individual Behaviour Research in San Diego, California. He showed that vitamin B6, C and magnesium supplements significantly improved symptoms in autistic individuals.
Children with ASDs can have poor protein intake as well as frequent nutrient deficiencies, including fiber, vitamin D, vitamin E, calcium, vitamin B12, and iron deficiencies. Food selectivity or picky eating is an important risk factor in the development of nutritional deficiencies.
Ans : The ideal food for autism is probiotics, gluten and casein-free food, and food rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Sensory objects and toys are perfect for soothing the early stages of a meltdown. They can help decrease sensory overload (even if that seems counterintuitive) and provide a helpful distraction for the person with autism. There are plenty of sensory toys on the market if you want something convenient.
For some children, sensory toys such as squeeze balls and fidget toys, weighted blankets, their favorite videos, or activities can help them manage their emotions. You can set up a calming routine that the child practices on a regular basis, and make it part of their daily schedule.
Some more recommended food items that help autism symptoms include: Prebiotic-rich foods (apples, asparagus, leeks, garlic, onions, bananas, and chicory root)
fruits such as apples, avocados, blueberries, kiwi fruit, grapes, plums, strawberries, vegetables such as cauliflower, cucumber, mushrooms, radish, eggplant, spinach, tomato, broccoli. nuts such as peanuts, pistachios, almonds.
There is no specific ASD diet, but removing certain proteins may relieve symptoms. The gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet has the most research and is one of the most common dietary interventions.
There is growing evidence that nutrition and lifestyle interventions can be very supportive to individuals with autism. For example, many individuals with autism have severely disrupted digestion, so restoring balance in the gut is a key focus from a nutritional perspective.
People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction, and restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving, or paying attention. It is important to note that some people without ASD might also have some of these symptoms.
Low vitamin D levels in utero, postnatal, and in early childhood have been hypothesized to be a risk factor for neurodevelopmental disorders, particularly ASD.
Vitamin B6 and magnesium to ease autism symptoms
More than a dozen studies have suggested that supplementing vitamin B6 and magnesium in children with autism helps to ease symptoms, but the treatment remains controversial as each child's body will react differently to varying interventions.
Researchers found Vitamin B6 with Magnesium has the potential effects to alleviate the core symptoms of autism. A possible association higher doses of vitamin B6-Magnesium supplementation may reduce biochemical abnormalities e.g. reduction of urinary excretion of homovanillic acid and improve neurobehavioral symptoms.
Good Foods for Autism
High quality proteins such as pastured chicken and eggs, grass-fed beef, and wild-caught salmon. A variety of fresh fruits or frozen fruits and vegetables. Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and quinoa. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids including nuts, seeds, and fish.
Casein is the main protein in dairy products such as cow's milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream. Some research has shown that this diet may improve some symptoms of autism like hyperactivity and communication, but it has not shown to improve digestive symptoms.
The best food for children with autism are fatty fish, eggs, grass-fed beef, sustainably raised animal proteins, shellfish, beans, nuts, and seeds. Research has found that fatty fish such as salmon and free-range eggs share the healthy omega 3 acid. Foods that contain omega 3s help fight inflammation in the body.
Dairy (casein)
Children with autism (ASD) are much more likely to have a food intolerance to dairy than their peers. This mild allergy could explain why many parents have reported positive changes to their child's autism symptoms -including improved behavior - after eliminating dairy. Your child actually feels better.
Kiwi has proved to be efficient for children with autism to learn new things. It also showed that 92 percent of the children had improved their social skills after using Kiwi.
Sensory overload, changes in routine, social isolation, co-occurring conditions, and lack of support can all exacerbate the symptoms of autism. However, with early intervention, therapy, and support, individuals with autism can manage these challenges and improve their quality of life.
Among those with autism, common triggers include disturbing breaks in routine, lack of sleep, jarring “sensory stimuli” (noises, lights, or smells) or even undiagnosed mental health problems. Clearly, it's important to look beyond the behavior itself to identify the underlying cause.