Autism and Nutrient Deficiencies

The most common problem in children with autism is eating behavior. 90% of children with autism have problems in increased food selectivity, food refusal and disruptive mealtime behaviors. Many children with autism dislike the tastes and textures of certain food which can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Some parents may describe their children as ‘picky eaters’. Picky eating varies and includes the eating limited variety or quantity of food which may be associated with frequent food refusal.

Nutrients are important for biochemical processes. Thus, variety of food can help the children with autism to get enough nutrients for well-functioning of biochemical processes. There are many ways to boost nutrient intake. Increase the amount of vegetables which contain high amount of vitamins and minerals. It is preferable to get organically-grown and fresh-cooked vegetables. Begin to add vegetables in their meals slowly and be creative when choosing the vegetables.

Pureeing organic vegetables and add them to muffins. Indirectly, when the children eat their favorite muffin, they can get nutrient from vegetables. Or if they like to eat pancakes, the pureed vegetables can be added to pancake flour. Or else, add the pureed vegetables to meatballs, meat patties and sauces. If they like to drink, make the vegetables into juice which is easy to be digested.

To make the meals be more creative, add shredded vegetables to children’s food. For example, add shredded carrots to cakes and zucchini to bread. Carrots and zucchini are often made into baked. Shred the vegetables before adding them to recipe. Most children like crispy texture vegetables. Make vegetables into chips like potato chips. Carrots, sweet potatoes and beets are the examples of vegetables that are suitable be made into chips.

It is difficult for the children with autism to reach the recommended levels of nutrients from food. If the children cannot get enough nutrients from food, supplementation can be the final choice. Biochemical analysis test should be done before diagnosing the nutrient deficiencies in children. Then, prescribe specific vitamins or minerals for children. Introduce the enzymes to aid the digestion process. Probiotics also are important to supply beneficial bacteria in gut. If the children do not drink milk or dairy products, calcium supplement can be prescribed for their growth

Children with autism need good nutrition for their health and growth. Be more creative in serving the meals. Make sure the taste is good and nutritious.

References:

Autism Speaks

Help for Picky Eaters, Autism File

Journal of Pediatric Nursing(2013)

NourishingHope.com

The National Autistic Society