This New Year many people are setting wellness goals centered around weight loss, fitness or other health realted goals. If you have a child who has been impacted by autism, you may want to resolve to learn more about  supporting children with autism through nutrition!

Autism is complicated… to say the least. And while nutrition won’t solve everything, evidence-based practices have shown that proper nutrition can play a significant role in managing symptoms and improving the overall well-being of children with autism. 

Understand the Link between Nutrition and Autism

Researchers continue to explore how certain dietary factors can impact behavior, cognition, and overall health in children with autism. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach, some studies suggest that certain dietary interventions may help manage symptoms and improve quality of life for individuals with autism.

A few areas of focus that are most researched include: 

Gut health – Individuals with autism often have imbalances in their gut microbiome, which can affect digestion, immune function, and even behavior. Some studies have found that eliminating certain foods may lead to improvements in behavior and social interaction in some children with autism. This article does a great job diving deeper into the connection between gut health and autism:  Gut Health and Autism

Omega-3 fatty acids – Omega-3s are found in salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts, and have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that support brain health. Some studies suggest that supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce hyperactivity and improve attention in children with autism: Omega 3

Well-balanced diet – The simplest place to start is by focusing on basic nutrition for your child. Try to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats in your family’s daily diet. We know! This is often much harder for children with autism. Remember that even small changes in diet can make a big difference and the team at Malama Pono is available to help work on creating more flexibility in your child’s eating habits.

It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes to a child's diet. Chat with your team at Malama Pono for more support it focusing your child's nutrition is a goal for you this year!