Supplements have become an important part of the
health industry. There are literally thousands of products on the
market that can give your body the added nutrients it needs. People
with autism are especially prone to nutritional difficulties and it
is important that they take supplements to achieve a balanced
nutritional state.
The first step toward addressing autism and supplementation is to
adopt a gluten and casein free diet. These proteins have been found
to potentially worsen the symptoms of autism. In fact, gluten and
casein, in many autistic children, have been found to help the brain
produce natural opiates, making foods that contain them practically
addictive!
Another important step is the implementation of a
balanced and healthy diet. Remember, autistic children are
influenced by routines, so if a healthy diet is instituted early and
followed, autistic children will likely adhere to it.
It is also important to have the input of a doctor to determine if
your autistic child is absorbing the proper amount of nutrients.
Simple blood tests can determine nutrient levels and from this data
a diet can be successfully adjusted to address any shortfalls.
Defeat Autism Now! (DAN!) medical professionals are a good place to
start because they have been especially trained to understand the
challenges facing autistic children.
There is a list of common supplements that autistic children are
often lacking or simply do not have at optimum levels. Selenium,
calcium, magnesium, zinc, folinic acids, vitamins C and E, essential
fatty acid, cod liver oil, taurine, and various amino acids.
When beginning a regiment of supplements, it is important to work
them in slowly. It is equally important to document changes in
behavior. Pay close attention to the effects of supplements on your
child. Note any differences and prepare to discuss them with your
doctor or nutritionist.
In terms of positive and negative effects that can result from the
use of supplements, and a change in diet – they will not be easy to
miss. Positive changes can include a reduction in the severity of
behaviors. Many autistic children can show improvement in managing
behaviors and social interaction. It is equally important to note
regressions in behavior. If negative behaviors are observed, the
supplement added should be reduced or eliminated. For the most part,
negotiating the diet and supplementation of an autistic child is a
trial and error undertaking. It is recommended that when first
purchasing supplements you start with small packages. Buying in bulk
can save you money in the long run, but if you buy a ton of a
supplement that produces undesired results, you are stuck with
useless product.
Should you chose to add supplements to your child’s diet, you will
need to d so in a controlled manner. Don’t just dole out supplements
on an experimental basis. Work with a doctor or a nutritionist to
come up with a specific plan that is geared toward your child’s
success. This regiment should include frequent tests for metal
toxicity, stool analysis, and tests for various amino acids and
peptides.
There is a lot to consider when choosing supplements for your child.
This process is very important and can improve the overall quality
of their life. Do not rush into the process and make sure you cover
all the bases before proceeding. Give supplements time to work.
Oftentimes, it takes time for the body to accurately process
nutrients and for you to see any changes in behavior.
There are many more resources and information about diagnosing,
controlling and treating Autism in, The Essential Guide To Autism.
Recent studies have shown that there is
currently a worldwide autism epidemic. In fact, more than 1.5
million people are affected in the United States alone, with one in
every 250 children diagnosed.
It's true that early detection and early treatment are the two key
factors in improving prognosis -- but too often parents get bogged
down in denial or confusion about this still mysterious disorder,
and are unable or unwilling to take the necessary steps.
The Essential Guide to Autism contains advice and information that
will help you make the right treatment decisions for your child.
Today, many youngsters can be helped to attend school alongside
their peers. Some programs are demonstrating that with appropriate
support, many people with autism can be trained to do meaningful
work and participate fully in community life.
All of the materials on this site have been included for the purpose of
providing general information, and they should not be relied on as a
substitution for professional advice.
