How Does Diet Affect Autism Symptoms and What Can Be Done to Change it to a Healthy Diet

Theories abound when it comes to the treatment of autism. Many practitioners believe that correct diet is at the root of the problem. While good nutrition is essential, it appears it may be necessary to undergo extensive dietary change, as most children with autism appear to respond abnormally to a wide range of foods. Gastrointestinal illnesses, inflammation and other intestinal disorders appear to be quite common in those who suffer from the disease. A regimented diet, often combined with alternative treatment methods, is recommended in the treatment of the problem. Random changes of food should be avoided.
Genetically modified foods pose a health risk throughout society and it is thought that this is particularly important when it comes to those who are vulnerable through autism to allergies, immune system issues and digestive challenges.
Gluten and casein free diets are often recommended. However, this step should not be taken lightly. There is evidence on both sides of the argument, so those involved should make sure that they consult appropriately and weigh all the consequences before moving forward.
Gluten, a protein within wheat, oats and rye is found in almost all processed foods. Casein is a protein found in milk and its derivatives and most dairy products. As such, it can be extremely difficult to develop a sustaining diet while excluding these proteins altogether. Often times, a diet would have to be composed of whole grains, fresh fruits, dairy free products and unprocessed meat and the preparation of such a diet can also be very time-consuming and costly.
Academics believe that abnormally high levels of opioid peptides are not broken down in the digestive system and that they may leak into the bloodstream. Indeed, it was discovered only recently by researchers in Maryland that a certain receptor makes the intestinal barrier more permeable, making this "leaky gut syndrome" possible. In plain English, this means that a product similar to opium permeates into the bloodstream every time the autistic child eats.
If gluten and casein are removed from the autistic diet, supporters of this theory point to a reduction in gastrointestinal and neurological damage. They also maintain that this method is less harmful than adding drugs to a patient's bloodstream which can just add another level of chemicals to a potentially damaged system.
It is important to note however, that the so-called gluten/casein diet method should be introduced selectively, slowly and should be well documented. Elimination of the toxins can produce a "withdrawal" effect which may take some time to wear off.
Other dietary plans exist, such as the yeast free diet, which involves cutting out sugars, caffeine and bread. It is suggested that the yeast overgrows in the intestines and the toxins can be released into the bloodstream with potentially adverse effects on brain functioning.
At the very least, a child or an adult suffering from autism should make sure that they schedule eating time appropriately and establish good nutrition. Snacks in between meals should be avoided and good practices such as a restriction on the intake of sugars, plenty of liquids, use of dairy free product and the introduction of natural supplements should all be encouraged.

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Diet - An Autism Treatment You Might Not Have Thought Of

When you think about autism treatments for your child, teenager or adult, do not overlook diet. It may not occur to you at first, but what your loved one with autism is eating is just as important, if not more, than the medications or therapies he is getting in terms of affecting behavior and well-being. Many children with autism need to avoid certain ingredients in common foods, as they are very sensitive to them.
Autism Treatment Using Diet
Using diet as an autism treatment is often called a biomedical intervention. You will want to avoid artificial ingredients, food dyes, and as much sugar as possible. These can all bring havoc onto the system.
A lot of people with autism are sensitive to gluten and casein.

• Gluten is an ingredient found in many foods, especially bread, cereal and grains. Nearly all pastries and other bakery items have gluten in them. Pasta also has it.


• Casein is found in most dairy products, such as milk, ice cream and yogurt.

People who are intolerant to these items will have digestive complaints; bloating and gas are common. Often, there are cognitive and emotional effects, like irritation, inability to focus, and spaciness. Taking gluten and casein out of your autistic kid's diet can result in big improvements to their health and behavior. You can find a large selection of gluten and casein free items at your local health food store.
Why is avoiding sugar often a good autism treatment?
A lot of people with autism have yeast and candida problems. Candida is a natural yeast that is present in the body. However, if it gets too big, it can take over the body and cause all sorts of problems.
It can be responsible for things like abdominal gas, fatigue, anxiety, inability to think straight or concentrate, mood swings, hyperactivity, constipation, acne, depression, learning difficulties, and indigestion, among others. Candida is fed by sugar, so keeping a low sugar diet free of processed or artificial foods is the healthiest thing you can do.
Other Factors
There are many different claims and thoughts about diet and its effect on autism. Some parents report that autistic symptoms greatly improve when wheat or eggs are removed from their child's diet. Some see an improvement in behavioral problems simply be removing one group, or be eliminating caffeine, chocolate or even peanut butter.
Supplements such as B6 and magnesium have benefited some kids.
Parents simply have to decide for themselves what works and what does not for their loved ones with autism. Try it. Experiment. For some, nothing seems to work...but for many, dietary treatments for autism have been remarkably successful.

As parents learn as much as you can about dietary issues as well as other therapies for autism. Tips from other parents and professionals can be extremely helpful. A great site that has tips and suggestions for additional treatments is the AmericanAutismSociety.org. There you can sign up for their FREE newsletter with tips and info on autism.

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