The Impact of Nutrition on Autism and ADHD

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are neurodevelopmental conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. While ADHD and autism spectrum disorders are not the same thing, they do share some characteristics and overlapping symptoms. What they have in common are changes in typical brain function, and in certain mechanisms responsible

There is no known cure for these disorders, research suggests that nutrition may play a role in managing the symptoms and enhancing overall well-being for individuals with autism and ADHD. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between nutrition and these conditions, highlighting the potential benefits and offering practical tips for implementing a nutritious diet to support those affected.

Understanding Autism and ADHD

Autism is a complex disorder characterized by challenges in social interactions, communication difficulties, and repetitive behaviors. It’s believed that both genetic and environmental factors play a role in causing autism. Malnutrition is common in autism due to gastrointestinal issues, abnormal sensory processing, unusual food choices, and consumption of food allergies.

ADHD, on the other hand, is marked by symptoms like inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Early identification and treatment is important, otherwise it can lead to more serious consequences, including school failure, family stress and disruption, depression, problems with relationships and more. Both conditions have a broad spectrum of severity, and the symptoms can significantly impact daily life.

The Role of Nutrition

While nutrition cannot cure ASD or ADHD, it can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and optimizing overall health. Here are several ways in which nutrition can make a positive impact:

Nutrient Deficiencies

Certain nutrients are found to be deficient in individuals with ASD and ADHD (1,2). Common deficiencies include omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, magnesium, vitamin C, folate and vitamin D. And studies are being done showing supplementation of these nutrients and others as having positive effects on the behavior of children with autism. The ones that seem the most promising are vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium (3,4,5,6,7,8,9, 11). There is also evidence that supplementation, in general with a multivitamin can help with ADHD (10). Alternatively, feeding your child foods rich in the nutrients, such as fatty fish, nuts, seeds, legumes, and leafy greens, may help alleviate symptoms.

Gut-Brain Connection

It has become clear that the brain is not the only organ involved in autism and ADHD. The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is equally important in the etiology and treatment of autism. Many children with autism and ADHD experience gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, diarrhea and abdominal pain. And these GI symptoms often coincide with changes in mood and behavior.

Studies have found that the GI problems common in ASD and ADHD are often the result of imbalances in gut bacteria, food sensitivities, or insufficient digestive enzymes. Diet modifications and supplements may help address both GI issues and mood/behavior issues (11, 16).

One such supplement related to the gut is probiotics. Recent research has shown that probiotics may help to improve bowel habits, behavior, and social functioning in people with autism, but more well designed studies are needed.

What you can do for sure, if you have a child with autism or ADHD is provide a wholesome diet that focuses on gut-friendly foods like probiotics, fiber-rich fruits and vegetables, and fermented foods may improve gut health, potentially leading to positive outcomes in behavior and cognition.

Elimination Diets

Research has shown that children with ASD and ADHD have higher rates of food allergies (19) and sensitivities. And there may be a connection to food sensitivities and symptoms, as mentioned above. So in addition to supplementation to address nutrient deficiencies or gut bacteria imbalances there is also the strategy of eliminating any foods that may be an issue (9,12,13,14,18,20). Some individuals with ASD or ADHD may benefit from elimination diets that remove certain foods known to trigger symptoms. Common culprits include gluten, casein (found in dairy), food additives, and artificial colors. However, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian before implementing such diets to ensure proper nutritional balance.

A gluten free casein free is one type of elimination diet that is popular for children with ASD. There is some evidence to support it can be beneficial and more so with children who have GI symptoms.

There is some evidence to support the removal of artificial colors (14,15). It seems, as with foods, when there is a sensitivity to the artificial colors, then removing it will help behavior, but not in children who don’t have a sensitivity. The evidence is stronger for removal of artificial colors with ADHD, but has also been studied in ASD.

Practical Tips for Implementing a Nutritious Diet

Here are some practical tips to incorporate a nutritious diet for individuals with autism and ADHD:

  1. Emphasize whole foods: Encourage a diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats. Minimize processed and sugary foods. Balancing blood sugar levels may help prevent energy crashes, which may improve focus and attention.
  2. Offer a variety of colorful foods: Different colored fruits and vegetables provide a wide range of nutrients. Experiment with various flavors and textures to increase dietary diversity.
  3. Consider supplementation: If necessary, consult a healthcare professional about appropriate supplements that may fill any nutritional gaps.
  4. Establish a routine: Individuals with autism and ADHD often thrive on structure. Create a mealtime routine to provide consistency and reduce anxiety.

While nutrition alone cannot cure autism or ADHD, it may significantly impact symptom management and overall well-being. Active dietary treatments including the use of dietary supplements and elimination of certain products such as gluten, casein, processed foods, and artificial food colors might help to reduce the severe outcomes. 

References

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  3. Nakisa Mohammadpour, Shima Jazayeri, Mehdi Tehrani-Doost, Mahmoud Djalali, Mostafa Hosseini, Mohammad Effatpanah, Rozita Davari-Ashtiani & Elham Karami (2018) Effect of vitamin D supplementation as adjunctive therapy to methylphenidate on ADHD symptoms: A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled trial, Nutritional Neuroscience, 21:3, 202-209,
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