Children with autism are prone to having selective eating patterns, a limited food repertoire, sensory issues that are linked to restricted food intake, and neophobia, which refers to the fear of trying anything new including unknown or unfamiliar foods [1-3]. In some cases, dietary restrictions (e.g. casein- or gluten-free diets) that caretakers/parents use as a therapeutic approach to targeting behavioral and/or gastrointestinal issues may also contribute to the nutritional vulnerability of children with autism [4].
Accordingly, vitamin B-12, D, E, folate, biotin, and pantothenic acid deficiencies have been observed in individuals with autism as well as elevated vitamin B6 levels in some children with this condition [1]. Children with autism also tend to have lower levels of calcium, magnesium, selenium, chromium, iodine, and lithium as well as amino acid and fatty acid imbalances [1]. Over the years, research has demonstrated that these types of nutritional imbalances are associated with functional issues including behavioral impairments and communication problems [5].
Based on these findings, more emphasis is being placed on actively addressing nutritional status instead of just accepting picky eating as a typical characteristic of autism. Furthermore, research consistently shows that nutritional supplementation is beneficial for children with autism [5], thereby indicating that this is an integral part of the therapeutic management of autism.
This is why I developed My Spectrum Heroes™ Multivitamin Mineral Plus. the dietary supplement designed to support the developing brain and nervous system with extra support for kids on the spectrum. You can learn more about this high potency, superior quality supplement by clicking HERE
My Nutrition Intervention for Autism and ADHD Program addresses these common deficiencies and helps guide parents to better ways of ensuring their kids are getting adequate nutrition that supports their developing brain and nervous system and can help improve behaviors and symptoms. Visit www.denisevoight.com/enrollment for more information about the program
References
- Ranjan S, Nasser JA. Nutritional status of individuals with autism spectrum disorders: do we know enough? Adv Nutr. 2015;6(4):397-407.
- Emond A, Emmett P, Steer C, Golding J. Feeding symptoms, dietary patterns, and growth in young children with autism spectrum disorders. Pediatrics. 2010; 126(2):e337-342.
- Ledford JR, Gast DL. Feeding Problems in Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders A Review. Focus Autism Other Dev Disabl 2006;21:153-166.
- Srinivasan P. A review of dietary interventions in autism. Ann Clin Psychiatry. 2009;21(4):237-247.
- James SJ, Melnyk S, Fuchs G, Reid T, Jernigan S, Pavliv O, Hubanks A, Gaylor DW. Efficacy of methylcobalamin and folinic acid treatment on glutathione redox status in children with autism. Am J Clin Nutr. 2009;89(1):425-430.