Autism is an illness that is still not well understood by the medical community. While a great deal of research is still being conducted to better understand what causes autism and find effective treatments, many parents find that using complimentary therapies or integrative medicine approaches helps their children. Complimentary treatment approaches are not intended to replace behavioral treatments for the core symptoms of autism or related medical conditions. They are intended to help improve outcomes for patients.
Gluten-Free Diets
A small study conducted in 2010 found insufficient evidence of any clear benefits to eliminating gluten foods from the diet of children with autism. However, more and larger studies are currently underway to examine the effects of eliminating these foods from the diet.
Numerous parents of children with autism spectrum have reported that adopting a gluten-free diet plan helps improve many behavioral problems for their children. This can be especially true if there is a family history of digestive or immune system problems related to gluten food consumption.
If you choose to adopt a gluten-free diet plan for your child, work closely with a dietician or nutritionist to ensure that you approach it in a safe manner. Many foods containing gluten are primary sources of needed protein and essential vitamins and minerals for growing children.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In 2011, a pilot study was funded by Autism Speaks to examine the impact of omega-3 fatty acids for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Omega-3 fatty acids play a key role in brain development and function. Other studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids can improve socialization behaviors, as well as many behaviors observed in children with autism, such as hyperactivity and repetitive motion behaviors.
The study found that children who received omega-3 fatty acid supplements demonstrated substantial improvements in autism-related behaviors, such as hyperactivity and repetitive motions. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal levels of omega-3 fatty acids to recommend for children with autism.
Autism can be a baffling condition for parents to understand and cope with in their children. It is important for parents to continue using proven behavioral interventions for their children. However, many forms of alternative and complimentary therapies may help improve behaviors in their children. A great deal of research is currently being conducted to find answers to help those with autism spectrum disorder.
Do you know a child with autism? What alternative or complimentary therapies do you think work best for them?
– The Alternative Daily
