Nutrition for Autistic Spectrum Disorders

The latest scientific research shows that autistic spectrum disorders (ASD), including ADD and ADHD have at least some biological causes. The DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) Protocol has compiled this research into a treatment approach, now being used by hundreds of practitioners across the globe.

Biochemical Burden

Recent studies have shown that many people with ASD have abnormalities in their sulfation and methylation pathways, which are involved in the body's detoxification process. This, along with the burden of environmental and toxicity and digestive dysfunction, can contribute to many of the symptoms we know as "autistic". Correcting these biochemical and digestive imbalances can often help children with ASD and developmental delays.

The Role of Gluten and Casein

Three major food components shown to play a part in autism are gluten (from certain grains) casein (from dairy products) and soy. Increasing evidence suggests that these foods can cause changes in the mood, behavior and digestion of ASD children who cannot properly digest these proteins.

Heavy Metals

In addition, analyses of the hair, urine and feces of ASD children often reveal significantly higher levels of toxic heavy metals like lead, arsenic and particularly mercury. Dysfunction of the detoxification pathways in ASD children may lead to the accumulation of heavy metals, which can damage the cells of organs such as the brain and nervous system, liver, kidneys and hormone glands.

Digestive Disorders

ASD children also tend to have more problems with digestion, including food sensitivities and in addition, many have excess yeast (Candida) or pathogenic bacterial overgrowth in their intestines. These digestion problems can lead to increased allergies as well as sleep and behavioral problems. The lack of adequate digestive enzymes to break down food proteins, allows undigested foods to travel through the intestinal barrier, where they are absorbed through a "leaky gut" (permeable intestinal lining). Both can play major role in food allergies and sensitivities and in gluten and casein sensitivity.

Biomedical Interventions for ASD

The biomedical approach involves tests and treatment for yeast & bacterial overgrowth, and includes the removal of food allergens and sources of food sensitivity. Gut health can be restored with nutritional supplements and special diets. In addition, as a result of the excess burden of toxins on the body of ASD children, vitamin and mineral deficiencies are often present, and dietary changes and nutritional supplementation can help correct these metabolic abnormalities and provide the nutrients needed to support sulfation and methlyation.