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their patients try supplementation
with omega 3s, vitamins D and B6
and magnesium.”
She says a good rule of thumb is
to try these one at a time for several
weeks to see if there is noticeable
improvement. “If there is not, the
supplement should be discontinued.
At that point, a new supplement
could be started,” Levy says.
Cohen points out that children
with ASD often have “dysfunctional
gastrointestinal systems, immune
disregulation and impaired detoxification.” Levy notes, “The regular use
of probiotics in these kids has been
seen to provide some relief of
gastrointestinal conditions.”
There is anecdotal evidence about
vast improvements in ASD symptoms
after dietary intervention. Parents may
want to investigate dietary therapy for
an ASD child, in conjunction with a
RD and a pediatrician. Regardless of
whether or not dietary intervention
takes place, extra care should be
taken to ensure that an ASD child is
receiving adequate nutrition. ❖
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other constituents in foods. This is
important to achieve optimal health
and developmental performance.”
Levy tells parents that although
a gluten- or casein-free (casein is a
protein found in cow’s milk) diet may
help certain kids, the research is
inconclusive. “If you do decide to try
that kind of dietary approach, it is
imperative to make sure that the
nutritional needs of the child are being
met,” she says. “It’s important to work
with the pediatrician and a RD if you
are considering this for your child.”
Both experts recommend vitamins
and/or supplements. Cohen notes,
“Given the amount of toxins in general
in our environment and the stress
we’re enduring, there is almost no
way that any diet could meet the
nutritional demands of any human
being, in particular an ASD child.”
Levy advises, “A good quality
multivitamin without any artificial
colors or flavors is extremely important for these kids. It can help to offset
some of the nutrients lacking in the
diet. Some professionals like to have