Special food for special needs like Autism
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Loading... - Elena Ahmed
- 22 Jul 2022
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Many individuals with autism have food aversions and sensitivities. Many also have behavioural issues that make mealtime particularly challenging. Researchers have found that children with ASD are five times more likely to have mealtime challenges such as tantrums, extreme food selectivity and ritualistic eating behaviours. Inadequate nutrition is also found to be more common among children with autism. In particular, an overall low intake of calcium and protein. Calcium is crucial for building strong bones. Adequate protein is important for growth, mental development and health. Some common dietary considerations associated with autism are:
1. Sensitivity to smells, sights and sound at mealtimes can impact eating
2. Gut upset, including constipation, diarrhoea and a bloated stomach
3. Food hypersensitivity (when the body reacts badly to certain foods)
4. Eating a limited diet - a small number of foods similar in colour and taste
5. Having a strong preference for certain textures (such as crunchy or soft foods), food cut in a certain way (e.g. toast cut into squares but not triangles)
6. Not wanting different foods to touch on a plate as they tend to prefer things that are predictable, as this can help to reduce anxiety
There is growing evidence that nutrition and lifestyle interventions can be very supportive to individuals with autism. Tips that could be followed to improve the food habit.
1. As hyperactivity and autism are highly linked; improving blood sugar balance is an important consideration by cutting out sugar and all sources of refined sugar. Only unrefined carbohydrates, such as fresh vegetables and fruit combined with protein, and monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are preferable to further slow the sugar release. Exposure to heavy metals (such as Aluminium and Mercury) needs to be limited. Excluding food additive, preservatives and artificial colours are also vital.
2. One of the most significant contributing factors in autism is wheat and dairy proteins – namely, gluten and casein. Gluten is found in wheat, rye and barley and foods made from them (bread, pasta, biscuits and breakfast cereals.) Casein is found in cow, goat and sheep milks (cream, yoghurt and cheese).
3. Fragments of these proteins, called peptides, can have a major impact on the brain. But consider pursuing a wheat and dairy free diet has proven helpful for some, but not all, autistic individuals.
4. Ensure a consistent routine around activities and mealtimes. This can be reassuring and help to reduce anxiety around mealtimes. Small changes in food habit, one at a time, are usually best. Read More...
