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.
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| 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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