May 2, 2012
By Autism Society
In celebration of its partnership with Potandon Produce, the Autism Society will share an autism diet and nutrition blog post each week throughout April. It is the hope of the Autism Society and Potandon that we can work together to empower you to make the best decisions for a child with autism. Please note that these tips are meant to be informational. Before making any dietary changes, you should consult a physician. The Autism Society does not endorse any specific type of treatment (See the Options Policy).
Tips were republished from the Autism Advocate article, Autism Diets and Nutrition: Providing Health Benefits for Many Children with ASD. Read the article here.
Poor Methylation and Sulfation Biochemistry
Medical studies have shown that methylation, transsulfuration and sulfation are one set of biochemical pathways that do not function optimally for many children with autism. These pathways—involved in the processes of detoxification, heavy metal elimination, digestion, immune function, cellular/metabolic function, gut integrity and microbial balance—can be supported, as follows, by avoiding certain substances and supplying needed nutrients.
- Remove phenolic foods. When the biochemical processes of methylation, transsulfuration or sulfation are not functioning well, limiting phenols and salicylates is important. Artificial phenols occur in petroleum-derived additives, such as artificial colors, flavors and preservatives. Even naturally occurring phenols, called salicylates, present in organic and non-organic foods such as grapes, raisins, apples, berries, almonds, honey and more, can create a variety of behavioral, emotional and physical symptoms.
- Improve methylation and sulfation through supplementation. Supplementing with nutrients that can support these biochemical pathways is important. Methyl-donors and methylation/transsulfuration support, such as vitamin B12, folate, B6, DMG/TMG, magnesium and zinc, are important supplements to consider. Determining which supplements are needed and adding them can be helpful to regulating the biochemistry and reducing autism symptoms.
Matthews, Julie. "Autism Diets and Nutrition: Providing Health Benefits for Many Children with ASD." Autism Advocate Second Edition 2010 (2010).
Topics:Environmental Health, Living with Autism
Comments
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Submitted by: ina Date: February 22, 2013
Thank you for the interesting article. In your research, I recommend familiarizing yourself with the WTHFR.net website. There is a very common cause of poor methylation. It is one of two genetic defects. There is a simple blood test to check for it. More folic acid for this condition can make things worse. Part of the solution is to supplement with methylated folic acid and B12. This condition can cause very serious health problems as we get older and is, I believe, well worth checking for.
It's so nice to see this post! I will be sharing it with all my son's doctors and my blog. So far digging for info on enzyme deficiency has been my arena as none of his doctors have heard of it. I am sure this is a major component to my son's diet and overall health.