Unlock Food Basics for the Nutritional Management of Autism

Autism is a disability seen during early childhood. It can impact a person’s social skills, communication, and interpersonal relationships.

People suffering from this disorder find it difficult to communicate and relate to others. They don’t understand how others think and feel and hence they find it difficult to express themselves.

They lack facial expressions and gestures. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) comes under the branch of autism. This disorder is found in people regardless of race, social background, lifestyle, ethnicity or culture. Boys are at a higher risk of developing this disorder as compared to girls. The ratio is 4 to 1 male to female. Studies claim that 1 in 59 children suffer from ASD.

A child usually before the age of three is diagnosed with autism. The symptoms of autism are as follows:

• Difficulty in communicating
• Cannot maintain eye contact
• Don’t like when cuddled or held
• A narrow range of interest or ardent interest in a particular subject
• Repetitive behavior such as repeating the same words or phrases
• A problem in perceiving facial expressions and gestures
• Do not listen to people
• Don’t look when pointed to an object

There is no explanation as to what causes autism. It can either run in a family or result due to genetic mutations. When older parents give birth to a child, the risk of developing autism is higher. Exposure to certain harmful drugs during pregnancy can also increase the chances of autism. Children suffering from autism may lack a healthy diet for their growth. They often get picky and refrain from eating anything they don’t like. It can be very hard for parents to make their children eat a nutritious diet. Today we will tell you about some basic food strategies so that you can effectively deal with a child suffering from ASD:

Omega 3 fats: These are good fats and can reduce inflammation. Studies show that children with autism have a low level of omega 3 fats. Lack of Omega 3 results in aggression and impulsivity. It can help control hyperactivity and have an impact on the thought process and behavior.

Avoid refined sugar: Consumption of sugar has an effect on children. Even though it doesn’t directly induce hyperactivity, it sets the biochemical responses in your body into actions that can cause serious behavioral defects.

Take Care of Food Allergies

• One of the most significant contributing factors in autism appears to be undesirable foods and chemicals that often reach the brain via the bloodstream because of faulty digestion and absorption. Pay attention to symptoms of gluten, dairy or nut allergies.
• 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.
• Try creating a calm and soothing environment It is seen that children do best when all their meals are scheduled at the same place and time
• Pay close attention to the likes and dislikes of your child and accordingly design a diet plan along with the child’s doctor
• Do not force the child to eat as it may worsen the condition
• Start feeding them by introducing small bites and avoid overwhelming them with food
• Focus on the presentation of food and make it look more appealing so that it is easy for the child to accept it

Footnote

Be well aware of the kind of food your child liked to eat. Always consult the doctor before making any change in the diet. Children suffering from autism may throw tantrums and skip their meals but you need to be patient with them.