Reduce Gut Inflammation in Children With Autism

Friday 17 January 2014

Autism is a developmental disorder affecting the functions of brain with the presence of difficulties in three areas including social deficits, communication problems and restricted behaviors. The exact causes of autism are still unknown. Most autism children have trouble engaging the social interactions such as less eye contact and little sharing their enjoyment of activities.

LifeNews.com
The common physicals problems include diarrhea, constipation, bloating, gastrointestinal pain, frequent infections and sleeping challenges. Certain children with autism, when something goes wrong in the gut, negative behavioral changes and cognitive problems occur. Some researchers believe that the symptoms could be due to ‘leaky gut’ or ‘gut inflammation’.

Remove food that can inflame the gut may improve digestion process and reducing the inflammation. Gluten, casein, corn, eggs and soy are the common substances that induce the inflammation. Gluten-Free Casein-Free (GFCF) diet is the most popular diet nowadays. Sugar and refined oils also enhance the inflammation. Ginger and turmeric help to reduce the inflammation.

Omega 3 fatty acids can act as anti-inflammatory which can be found in cold-water fish and shellfish, algae oil, flax seeds, walnuts and fortified food. Halibut, herring, mackerel, salmon, oyster, sardines and tuna are the good examples of seafood that rich with omega 3. There are two types of omega 3 fatty acids, long and short chain omega 3 fatty acids, where both can give benefits in reducing inflammation in gut.  

The intestines need good bacteria to maintain immunity and helps in synthesizing certain vitamins. Providing food that contains beneficial bacteria such as non-dairy yogurts and cultured vegetables can make intestinal flora to be healthier. Prebiotics support the growth of good bacteria. These foods include asparagus, bananas, legumes, garlic, honey, leeks, onions and peas.

Improving digestion, reducing inflammation and healing the gut in children with autism are the steps taken to improve ‘leaky gut’ and ‘gut inflammation’. And dietary modification is important to get the nutrient benefits and reduce the symptoms of autism.

References:
Autism Speaks
National Institute of Mental Health
NourishingHope.com
The National Autistic Society
WebMD

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