Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) usually appear during their first three years of life due to a complex neurological and developmental condition. Communication skills and social interaction are particularly affected. Typical symptoms include speech delays, lack of interest in playing with other children, and poor eye contact. Genetics and environment both may contribute to ASD, but there is no known cause.
One in every 44 American children has ASD, according to the CDC. Supplements for autism are more likely to be prescribed to boys than to girls. It is common for people with ASD to repeat behaviors. Behaviors such as these can affect eating habits and food choices.
Food dislikes or limited selection
Autism may cause food sensitivity. They may limit or avoid certain foods. Strongly flavored foods, fruits and vegetables, or foods with slippery or soft textures may be disliked.
A lack of nutrition
Autism can make it challenging for kids to focus for long periods. An entire meal may be challenging for a child.
Constipation
Limitations in food choices, inactivity levels, or medications may cause this problem. A gradual increase in dietary fiber, such as bran cereals, fruits, and vegetables, and regular physical activity can usually remedy it.
Drug interactions
Autism stimulant medications can reduce appetite. A child may eat less, affecting growth. Some medications increase appetite or affect vitamin and mineral absorption. Consult your healthcare provider about probable side effects.
Children with autism can benefit greatly from a balanced, nutritious diet for learning, managing emotions, and processing information. Children with ASD may not get enough nutrients because they avoid certain foods or restrict their eating.
Try these nutrition strategies if your child has ASD.
Prepare for pickiness
Taste, color, smell, and texture sensitivity are children’s biggest barriers to balanced eating. New foods, especially soft and slippery ones, may seem impossible to your child. Your child may avoid certain foods or entire food groups. Dealing with sensory issues outside the kitchen is one of the simplest ways. Choose a new food with your child at the supermarket. Find out where it grows on the internet when you get home. Choose a cooking method together. If your child doesn’t eat it, don’t worry. You can help your child become a more flexible eater by simply introducing them to new foods in a low-pressure way.
Routine your meals
The way the furniture is arranged, and a busy kitchen are all potential stressors for a child with ASD. Routine and predictability can help. The simplest way to reduce stress is to serve meals every day. Make concessions for easier mealtimes. Dim the lights or consider using lamps or candlelight instead of overhead lights if your child is sensitive to them. Every meal should include a favorite food and sit them on their favorite table.
Dieticians can help you with special diets.
Gluten- and casein-free diets may be helpful for ASD symptoms. Gluten can be found in many products like barley, wheat, and rye. Milk contains casein. According to the diet, individuals with autism have a “leaky gut,” or intestine, which allows gluten and casein to enter their bloodstream. There is a belief that this could lead to autism.
Controlled scientific studies have not proved the effectiveness of these diets, so they should not be recommended. Ensure you carefully plan your child’s nutrition when following a restrictive diet. Consult a registered dietitian nutritionist before drastically changing your child’s diet. There can be side effects if you self-prescribe gluten- or casein-free diet.
Dietitians and Nutritionists
Autism or not, most children can be picky about their food. Nutritionists can answer your questions about nutrition therapies and supplements and help your child eat well and live healthfully based on how they eat.