AUTISM NUTRITION & DIET GUIDE
Autism Nutrition & Diet Overview
Food can play an important role in a child’s overall health, comfort and development. Autistic children may experience food allergies, digestive discomfort, constipation, diarrhea, selective eating, sensory-based food aversions, nutrient deficiencies or co-occurring medical conditions such as epilepsy.
No single diet works for every child, and no diet has been proven to cure autism. However, an individualized nutrition plan may help address a diagnosed allergy, intolerance, nutritional deficiency, gastrointestinal condition or other medical need. When a child feels physically better, families may also notice improvements in sleep, participation, attention, mood or mealtime comfort.
Before eliminating an entire food group, speak with your child’s pediatrician and, whenever possible, a registered dietitian experienced in pediatric feeding and autism. Children with very limited diets require especially careful monitoring to make sure they receive enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals.
*Important Nutrition Disclaimer*
The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent autism or any other medical condition. No single diet has been proven to cure autism or consistently improve its core characteristics.
Some autistic children may also experience gut dysbiosis, food allergies, gastrointestinal discomfort, nutritional deficiencies, epilepsy, sensory-based food aversions or selective eating. When an underlying medical or nutritional concern is properly identified and addressed, a child may experience improved comfort, sleep, digestion, energy or participation.
Dietary changes affect every child differently. Before removing an entire food group, beginning a restrictive diet or introducing a supplement or herbal product, families should consult their child’s pediatrician and, whenever possible, a registered dietitian experienced in pediatric nutrition, autism and feeding differences. Children with limited food preferences should be monitored carefully to ensure they receive enough calories, protein, vitamins and minerals for healthy growth.
- Dairy Free
- Feingold Diet
- Gut and Psychology Syndrome- GAPS Diet
- Gluten Free Diet
- Gluten Free, Casein Free, Soy Free Diet – GFCF/SF
- Keto Diet
- Paleo Diet
- Pescatarian Diet
- Sugar Free Wheat Free – SFWF Diet
- Vegan Diet
- Vegetarian Diet
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