For many years research attempting to identify the 'cause' of autism and AS have pinpointed genetics, diet, MMR injections or accidents at birth. Although there is no "cure" for the condition, it is thought that its worst effects can be contained. One area where people have had success in both containing and managing these effects (anxiety, stress, nervousness) is with a diet intervention. It should be noted though, that some parents have experimented in various areas with little success.
Fatty acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play key roles in
brain development and function (Richardson, 2001;
Richardson, 2003a; Richardson, 2003b; Richardson and
Ross, 2003). Research suggests that imbalances or
deficiencies in highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFA)
of the omega-3 and omega-6 series may contribute to a
range of behavioural and learning difficulties
including autism spectrum disorders (Bell et al,
2000; Richardson and Ross, 2000; Richardson, 2001;
Vancassel et al, 2001; Richardson, 2003a; Richardson
and Ross, 2003; Richardson, 2004).
In a small ninety-day trial Patrick and Salik (2005)
reported that 18 of 22 children with autism or
Asperger syndrome taking a supplement of essential
fatty acids displayed significant increases in their
language and learning skills.
HUFA is present in fish and seafood, nuts and seeds, and green leafy vegetables. However these nutrients can be lacking in modern diets. It is possible to increase dietary supply of HUFA via supplementation. Supplements generally contain fish oils, however alternatives are available such as flax or hemp seed oil. Products may be single oils or blends and will offer varying levels of omega 3 and 6. Please check the label. Both fish and non-fish oil based supplements can be found in health shops, pharmacies, supermarkets and on the Internet.
It is important to note that fatty acids should not be expected to help all individuals with a particular diagnostic label, and nutritional approaches are to be viewed as complimentary to other methods of management (Richardson, 2003b). Specific advice concerning HUFA supplementation should be sought from a doctor or dietitian.
Gluten and casein-free diet
Who could
benefit?
Further research is needed in order to establish
which individuals with autism are likely to
benefit.
How successful has this diet
proved? Have any studies been carried
out?
Knivsberg et al (2003) provide a report of findings
to date, stating that dietary interventions yielding
positive results have been reported in surveys, case
studies, and studies of groups of children with
autism. Researchers have also noted positive feedback
from parents who have tried the gluten and
casein-free diet on their children.
Further research is required to ascertain whether dietary intervention is more beneficial to some children than others, whether varying results relate to implementation, or if some require a longer implementation period before effect is registered (Knivsberg et al, 2002). Furthermore it is important to note that individuals with autism are as different from each other as are individuals who do not have a developmental disorder. Therefore dietary intervention is not a cure that can remove all autistic traits in all individuals with autism (Knivsberg et al, 2001).
Is it
safe?
It is essential that any decision on whether to take
up such a diet should be made in consultation with a
doctor and preferably with a dietitian or
nutritionist. Lewis (1994) reports that initially
individuals may experience side effects including
stomach upset, anxiety, and slight ill
temper.
Taken from the National Autistic Society (UK) website concerning Diet intervention (www.nas.org.uk)
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Bowel Complaints
Dr. John McKenna is a microbiologist, an
alternaitve practioner and author of books on bowel
probelsm. These books are written for the lay person
to understand. One such book is called 'Hard to
Stomach'. Contact information: Ph: 045 897-012
(Office in NAAS Town) // www.nrinstitute.net
Dr. McGovern, GP, deals with stomach and
bowel complaints. Contact information: Ph: 01
296-5993 (Office in Goatstown, Dublin 14) //
www.interactivemedonline.com
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Recommended reading and
useful links
Reading
- A User Guide to the Gluten Free/Casein
Free Diet for Autism, Asperger Syndrome and ADHD, by
Luke Jackson
- Diet Intervention and Autism; Implementing
the Gluten and Casein Free Diet for Autistic and AS
Children and Adults - A Practical Guide for Parents,
by Marilyn Le Breton
- The Allergy Induced Autism Gluten and
Dairy Free Cookbook by Marilyn Le Breton
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For more information about this area, you are welcome
to contact aspire at the following details:
Phone: 087 933 6160 //
Email: [email protected]
