World Autism Awareness Day 2024: Autism spectrum disorder is a developmental disorder in children that can affect communication and social skills, cognitive function, and learning abilities. Considering that children with autism can exhibit repetitive behaviors and show an interest in certain things, this can also affect the way they eat, leading to nutritional deficiencies, eating disorders, and digestive problems. This may lead to system problems. It is important to ensure that your child is eating a balanced diet that supports development and cognitive function. There are also foods that can help children with autism have better control over their mood and behavior. (Also read | World Autism Awareness Day 2024: 8 effective teaching strategies for children with autism)
Autism refers to a wide range of conditions that affect the nervous system and can affect a person’s cognitive, emotional, social, and physical health. Symptoms vary in range and severity, and not all children with autism face the same challenges. Common symptoms of autism include difficulties with communication, social interaction, obsessive interests, and repetitive behaviors.
The role of nutrition in autism
“Proper nutrition plays an important role in the overall health and well-being of children, including those with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), food allergies and intolerances, metabolic disorders, nutritional deficiencies, Eating disorders, tantrums, picky eating, refusal to eat, etc. Eating, food obsessions, hyperactivity, constipation, diarrhea, difficulty adjusting to medications and nutritional status, and other problems affecting the gastrointestinal system (GIS). significantly impedes nutrition in children with ASD,” says Shruti Keluskar of Cloudnine Hospital Group, Pune, SB. Lord & Pimple Saudagar.
A balanced diet is essential for overall health and can also help improve behavior, language, and cognitive function. As dietary therapy has been proposed as a treatment for ASD symptoms, one-third of children receiving treatment at the time of ASD diagnosis receive some form of dietary intervention.
best foods for autism
Recent studies have shown that curcumin, probiotics, gluten-free/casein-free, ketogenic diets, and fermented foods reduce the intake of sugars, chemicals, pesticides, genetically modified organisms, inorganic processed foods, and difficult substances. Helps relieve excitement in people with. -Digested starches can worsen symptoms.
Other dietary interventions, such as FODMAP (fermentable oligodisaccharides and polyols) diets, elimination diets, or specific carbohydrate diets, have shown some improvement, but there is limited evidence to support these diets as therapeutic tools. I am.
Nutrition tips for children with autism
Here are some tips from Shruti Keluskar on how to manage nutrition in autism.
1. Focus on nutritious whole foods. Choose whole foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods are rich in essential nutrients that are important for overall health and can help support brain function and mood regulation in children with ASD.
2. Gluten-free, casein-free diet: There are claims that ASD is caused by the effects of gluten and casein on immune pathways. These peptides have been established to cause aberrant cytokine production, immune pathway abnormalities, and harm to the central nervous system. The GFCF diet helps by reducing allergic reactions that can affect neurological function and support brain development and recovery.
3. Contains omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are essential for brain development and function. They have been shown to improve concentration, attention, and behavior in children with autism. Omega-3s are also found in flaxseeds and chia seeds. Consuming healthy fats can improve symptoms such as hyperactivity, concentration, irritability, and aggression.
4. Vitamin D: It plays an important role in immune function, mood regulation, and overall health. Children with autism are at increased risk of vitamin D deficiency due to low sun exposure and dietary restrictions. Incorporate foods fortified with vitamin D and involve children in outdoor activities.
5. Magnesium: A mineral that supports relaxation, it can help improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and calm hyperactivity in children with autism. Foods rich in magnesium include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and green leafy vegetables.
6. Vitamin B group: Vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are essential for brain function, energy production, and mood regulation. Some studies have shown that vitamin B supplementation can help reduce autism symptoms. Foods such as chicken, eggs, dairy products, and fortified cereals are good sources of B vitamins.
7. Zinc: A mineral that plays a role in immune function, sensory processing, and behavioral control. Some studies suggest that children with autism may have low zinc levels. Foods rich in zinc include red meat, poultry, beans, and nuts.
8. Probiotics: Gut health is closely linked to brain health, and many children with autism experience gastrointestinal problems. Probiotics maintain a healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, and support immune function. To improve your probiotic intake, you can include yogurt, curd, and kanji as part of your diet.
9. Limit processed foods and additives: Processed foods, artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives can worsen ASD symptoms in some children. Try to minimize these types of foods and choose more natural, whole food options instead.
Nutritional management of children with autism requires patience, consistency, and attention to individual needs. Focusing on whole foods, addressing food sensitivities, and providing a regular lifestyle can help support your child’s overall health and well-being.
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