Nutrition Diet

The exact cause of autism is currently unknown, but there are a lot of theories about this alarming ailment. Genetics is most accepted cause of autism, although a number of studies have already indicated that genetics alone cannot be blamed for this disease; since, in order for the genetics to take place, certain factors are needed. Recent studies claim that certain chemicals are the cause of autism. Substances such as heavy metal as well as other oxidants are to be blamed, according to these more radical studies. Children are exposed to these harmful substances, even though they do not have the proper capacity to protect themselves for their effects. While autism as a result of external factors rather than genetics is still a debatable issue, the number of researches and studies pointing to other possible causes for autism is too overwhelming to ignore.

The debate may still be ongoing, but all these unresolved issues have at least one thing in common: what children take in may have caused autism. Therefore, what autism patients take in can also affect their development. This holds true for several reasons.

For one, the bodily functions of autistic children are different. Besides certain physical and mental inabilities, autistic children cannot digest properly, for instance. Because of this, the bowel movements of children with autism become irregular. This inability to properly digest also causes a more severe problem other than a leaky gut. Since they cannot break down the food they eat properly, certain chemicals and substances remain in the body. These substances can be harmful, causing further damage to their body—specifically their brain.

Two substances specifically linked to this problem are gluten and casein. Gluten is a type of protein, found in wheat and rye. On the other hand, casein is found in milk products such as cheese. In essence, these proteins are too complex to digest for autistic children, and the undigested chemicals become harmful toxins that seep into different parts of the body, such as the brain, that could cause severe damages.

In short, many suggest a gluten and casein free diet for autistic children in order to prevent these damages. Many parents would find this diet hard to follow, since wheat and milk can be found in most of the food products children commonly eat. However, the advantage of such diet is could be surprising as well. Besides preventing further damages, a gluten and casein free diet can help improve an autistic child’s reaction to medication and therapy. A gluten-free diet can be restricting, especially when done long-term, especially since food with gluten is important

This makes supplements important for autistic children. With additional supplements, autistic children can recover from whatever nutrients they lack from a gluten and casein-free diet. According to studies conducted by the University of Arkansas and the University of Texas, a child with autism does not have regular antioxidant levels and immune functions. Antioxidants can help detoxify harmful elements in the body, while proper immune functions are necessary in order to ward off diseases.

By Donna Mason

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