Diet, ADHD & Autism.
I Can Help You Help Your Child.
Can Changing A Child's Diet Reduce Their Autism and ADHD Symptoms?
There is no "ADHD diet", there is no "autism diet". But there are many things parents can do with diet and lifestyle that can help turn around ADHD behaviour in children and lessen the symptoms of autism.
Why does paying attention to diet help? Because the body and the brain are connected.
In my book and programs, I take parents though a two pronged approach to building a healthier body so we can build a healthier brain.
PRONG ONE is to reduce irritation. PRONG TWO is to improve nourishment.
Your Child Is More Than Their Diagnosis
Some nutrition/lifestyle factors that have been shown to exacerbate symptoms of ADHD & autism:
Nutrient deficiencies.
Research has revealed some common nutritional deficiencies shared by many people who have ADHD and autism. Particularly important are nutrients that feed neurotransmitter and hormone pathways, support mitochondrial and immune health, and contribute to the methylation cycle. These deficiencies can be the result of poor intake or they can also result from poor absorption or metabolic imbalances that render the nutrients unusable for cells.
Irritation & Stress.
For a variety of reasons that differ from person to person, children with behavioural, learning or mental health challenges tend to have a higher toxic burden than most. This includes the accumulation of metals and environmental contaminants, but also internally generated chemicals coming from pathogenic organisms in the gut and the process of metabolism. These waste products can interfere with nutrient absorption, can contribute to inflammation, and can generally interfere with function.
Imbalances in the gut microbiome (“dysbiosis”).
There is now a vast body of research connecting the health of the digestive tract with the function of the brain. When the probiotic gut flora are not healthy pathogenic bacteria and fungi are allowed to proliferate. This causes damage to the gut lining and creates neurotoxins that can affect brain function, behaviour, mood and learning. Imbalances in the gut flora also interfere with the function of neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin & GABA.
Food Intolerances/Food Reactions.
When food is not digested properly the nervous and immune systems can become activated. A number of inflammatory chemicals are released which can lead to extremely diverse symptoms including depression, skin problems, respiratory issues, poor focus & hyperactivity. Over 200 symptoms have been associated with adverse food reactions, some which overlap with symptoms of ADHD & autism.
Blood Sugar Instability.
A diet high in carbohydrates (especially refined carbohydrates like flour and sugar), along with impaired glucose metabolism (common in kids with Autism & ADHD), can cause blood sugar swings and hormonal shifts which can contribute to ADHD behaviour and exacerbate autistic symptoms. Some children (and adults) are more sensitive to blood sugar fluctuations.
Better Nutrition Builds A Healthier Body Which Builds A Healthier Brain. That's What I Can Help You With.
Get Excited About What's Possible For Your Child
Are ADHD and Autism Genetic Conditions?
Well, yes and no. There are certain genes that, when present and “turned on”, make a body more prone to developing neurological symptoms. There does seem to be a genetic factor for ADHD and there likely is one for autism as well.
We know however, from Epigenetic research that, to quote Dr Kenneth Bock, “genes might load the gun, but environment pulls the trigger”. That is, even if someone inherits a gene that predisposes them to a particular condition such as ADHD, environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle determine if that gene will be switched on. In utero and early childhood are critical times for genetic expression and nutrition plays a key role.
There are also nutrition and lifestyle-related issues that can exacerbate or even mimic symptoms of ADHD and autism. These factors are independent of, but might be related to, autism or ADHD genes.
Applying evidence-based dietary principles according to individual needs reduces irritation & inflammation in your child while maximizing supportive nutrients.
When we do that, symptoms reduce, medical treatments and other therapies often become more effective, and your child can function their very best.
That's What Raising Resilience Is All About
Join me and the thousands of parents who are improving the health, behaviour & happiness of their kids... regardless of diagnosis.
We'll send you the 4 Pillars Of Resilient Health™ quick start guide to get you started and you'll hear from us periodically via email.
