What is the best Indian diet for autism? Foods to include

In a world that constantly bombards you with information about nutrition, parenting, and health, one question remains particularly elusive: What is the best diet for kids with autism? 

When you try to understand autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it becomes imperative to explore how dietary choices can significantly impact the well-being and development of children on the spectrum. 

Are certain foods allies in boosting the potential for better communication, improved focus, and overall well-being of the child? 

Let’s go deep and solve this nutritional puzzle and discover the foods that may hold the key to supporting the unique needs of children with autism. Join us as we delve into the realm of evidence-based insights, exploring the intersection of diet and autism to uncover nourishing choices that can make a meaningful difference in the lives of these exceptional children.

Let’s start with foods to avoid before moving on to foods that should be included in the diet of a child with autism.

Foods that an ASD child should avoid

Creating a dietary plan for children with autism involves identifying beneficial foods and recognizing those that may pose challenges. Here’s a concise list of foods to avoid and choices that could impact sensory sensitivities and overall well-being for children on the autism spectrum. 

1. Autism and the Importance of Gluten-free and casein-free diet 

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which the child becomes hypersensitive or hyposensitive to various sensory stimuli. Since the conventional treatment for autism acts slowly and may not always be helpful, many parents look for alternative remedial measures such as diet. 

Gluten-free food includes food that is not derived from wheat or barley. The casein-free (Rice, Soy, or Potato-Based milk Pareve) diet includes food that does not contain milk protein. 

Gluten-rich and casein-rich food may interact with folic acid absorption and increase  neurodevelopmental weakness symptoms in autistic children. 

Moreover, the casein protein may cause gastrointestinal problems in autistic children who are prone to digestive problems and may not be able to digest milk items easily.  

Children like cheese, flavored yogurt, and chocolate milkshakes, but all these items may be avoided as they are a rich source of casein protein. 

2. Avoiding artificial ingredients, mercury, and polyvinyl compounds 

Artificial ingredients in food like additives, preservatives, added colors and flavors are not good for the health of the brain of autistic children and these ingredients also slow down the growth. Some food like red meat and sea fish may also contain mercury which can be toxic for autistic children. 

Unwashed vegetables and milk may also contain pesticides (polyvinyl compounds)  which are not at all good for the health of autistic children. 

3. Avoiding Sugar, artificial sweeteners, and monosodium glutamate 

Sugar and artificial sweeteners can be hazardous for an autistic child. They can worsen the hyperactivity behavior in children by stimulating the pathways in the brain that cause hyperstimulation. 

Monosodium glutamate present in Chinese food can also cause intense hyperactivity in autistic children. 

4. Avoiding Crunchy Junk Food 

Autistic children are sensitive to different smells, tastes, and textures of food. They may not like a ripe banana but may be fascinated by crispy chicken as well as burgers with added flavor and sauce. 

It is important to note that children with autism should refrain from consuming junk food as a means of satisfying their appetite. Failure to do so may result in nutritional deficiencies.

What food autistic children should have? 

Probiotics for autistic children

Probiotics are exceptionally useful for autistic children.

Probiotics are useful bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium that produce essential amino acids, neurotransmitters, and short-chain fatty acids which are all essential for the proper functioning of the brain.

Moreover, probiotics also enhance the circulation of brain-derived neurotrophic factors which are essential for brain and central nervous system function. 

Apart from improving brain health, probiotics also help in digestion and proper stool formation by colonizing the intestine with beneficial bacteria. 

Examples of probiotic food include- Curd, fermented food like idli and dhokla which are good for the neuro and gastric health of the autistic child 

Food rich in magnesium and vitamin B6 

Bananas, fish, and peanuts are rich in vitamin B6 and spinach, cashews and almonds are rich in magnesium. Both vitamin B6 and magnesium are important for speech development and improving communication skills. 

Foods that are rich in zinc and vitamin C 

Zinc and vitamin C is essential for the pregnant mother as well as for autistic children after their birth. When the baby starts eating food the child should be provided with a vitamin-rich diet such as lemon, oranges, papaya, and pineapples and zinc-rich food such as eggs, legumes, and seeds. 

Food rich in omega-3 fatty acids 

Omega-3 fatty acids are very good for the proper functioning of the brain. Walnut and cod liver oil are very rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids and should be provided to the autistic child. 

Foods to prevent constipation 

Vegetables and fruits rich in fiber should be given to autistic children who tend towards constipation. Moreover, proper water intake and physical activities are required to prevent constipation. 

Meal plan for an autistic child 

Early Morning:  Water + almond -+ nuts 

Breakfast: Egg + Whole grain bread + Fruit Salad 

Mid Meal: Orange juice + Papaya + Idli or dhokla 

Lunch: Pea Pulao, + rajma + Vegetable soup 

Evening: Tea without milk and sugar, kala chana chaat 

Dinner: Vegetable kofta, Ragi Chapati, Vegetable soup 

Conclusion :

There are specific foods that should be avoided in the diet of autistic children. While gluten-free and casein-free diets have gained popularity among parents, it’s essential to acknowledge that some medical professionals caution against excluding wheat and dairy, as it may lead to nutritional deficiencies. 

Therefore, it is advisable to consult with an experienced dietician before implementing a dietary plan for an autistic child. It’s crucial to note that diet alone might not substantially impact the life of an autistic child. 

For addressing a wide range of symptoms, stem cell therapy, involving the injection of cultured cells from the bone marrow into the cerebrospinal fluid along with various growth factors, has shown promise. Notably, this therapy has demonstrated effectiveness in reducing symptoms associated with hyperactivity and repetitive behaviors.

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