Autism is a developmental disorder that initially occurs in early childhood. It generally affects a child’s language, behavior, and social skills in development.
The exact cause is unknown, but some reasons may include medications taken during pregnancy, exposure to toxins, infections, immunizations, inflammation, leaky gut, nutrient deficiencies, food allergies, and inborn errors of metabolism.
Top Foods For Autism
Additive-free, unprocessed foods – Food additives may be problematic for ADHD, it is best to eat unprocessed whole foods prepared at home.
Bone broth – Bone broth (made from scratch) provides important amino acids and minerals that can help heal leaky gut and improve mineral deficiencies.
Poultry – Tryptophan, an amino acid, helps produce serotonin a calming neurotransmitter.
Foods high in probiotics – Try to add fermented foods such as kefir, amasai, sauerkraut or kimchi. These fermented foods contain probiotics essential in helping
repair a leaky gut.
Fish – A diet high in omega-3s is critical for brain health, try to eat wild-caught fish at least 2x per week.
Autism Foods to Avoid
Gluten – Some report worsening symptoms after eating gluten which may indicate sensitivity. Avoid all foods made with wheat such as bread, pasta, and wheat cereal.
Cows Dairy – The protein in cows dairy, called A1 casein, can trigger a similar reaction as gluten and therefore should be avoided. For calcium, increase green leafy vegetables or try goat’s milk kefir.
Sugar – Sugar can cause fluctuation in blood sugar leading to behavioral problems. Avoid any forms of concentrated sugar including candy, desserts, soda, or fruit juices.
Food coloring and dyes – Children with autism can be sensitive to a variety of food dyes and colorings, therefore all processed foods should be avoided.
Soy – Soy is a common food allergy and contains phytic acid which can irritate the intestines causing leaky gut.
Top 5 Autism Natural Remedies
#1 Fish Oil (1,000mg daily)
The EPA/DHA in fish oil is critical for brain function and is anti-inflammatory. Supplementation has been shown to reduce symptoms of autism and improve learning.
#2 Digestive enzymes (1-2 capsules with each meal)
Since children with autism tend to have digestive problems and may also have leaky gut, digestive enzymes can help with absorption of vitamins and minerals.
#3 Vitamin D3 (2000-5000 IU)
Vitamin D deficiency is common with autism and is required for healthy brain function.
#4 Probiotic (50 billion units daily)
Autism may be connected to digestive issues, therefore taking a good quality probiotic daily will help maintain intestinal health.
#5 L-carnitine (250-500 mg daily)
This amino acid has been shown to improve the symptoms of autism.
Autism Natural Treatment
Other natural treatments that help with autism include chelation detox, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and supplementation with zinc, liposomal glutathione and l-glutamine.
Essential Oils For Autism
Vetiver essential oil has proven to balance brain waves, lavender oil can calm the body and frankincense oil supports neurological development all of which may support natural autism treatments.
By Dr. Josh Axe
(Source: draxe.com; November 23, 2016)
