Study Suggests Dairy-Free Diets for Autism Should Be Carefully Designed
...dairy-free diets and unconventional food preferences could put boys with autism and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) at higher than normal risk for thinner, less dense bones when compared to a group of boys the same age who do not have autism. ...This very useful study offers a simple, easy-to-implement take-home message. Parents with children who either won't eat dairy or are on dairy-free diets should be vigilant about their children's nutritional intake. Of course, that's not new information - but for parents who are considering a GFCF (gluten and casein-free) diet for their children with autism, it's critically important.The researchers believe that boys with autism and ASD are at risk for poor bone development for a number of reasons. These factors are lack of exercise, a reluctance to eat a varied diet, lack of vitamin D, digestive problems, and diets that exclude casein, a protein found in milk and milk products. Dairy products provide a significant source of calcium and vitamin D. Casein-free diets are a controversial treatment thought by some to lessen the symptoms of autism....
"Our results suggest that children with autism and autism spectrum disorder may be at risk for calcium and vitamin D deficiencies," Dr. Hediger said. "Parents of these children may wish to include a dietitian in their children's health care team, to ensure that they receive a balanced diet." ...
Dr. Hediger stressed that the current study results need to be confirmed by larger studies. Until definitive information is available, however, it would be prudent for parents of children with autism and ASD to include a dietitian in their care, particularly if the children's diets do not include dairy products or they are not otherwise eating a balanced diet, she said
Comments
Dairy is completely unnecessary for bone development. In fact, it can do more damage than good.
It might be expensive at first but I think a dietitian is key when starting any of these diets. These diets would be more expensive in the long run without the professional.
There are some vegans who have healthy bones and others who don’t because it’s more than just removing food groups.
My son is allergic to milk and does not consume any dairy products. We had his calcium levels tested and they are normal. We give him bottled water with a high calcium concentration (Contrex), and a calcium and vitamin supplement. His doctor said it is better to get calcium from eating greens and that milk is for baby cows not children.
Dairy products are not the only way to supplement calcium and vitamin D. I understand the value of the study, however, most parents who have kids on a GFCF diet will supplement calcium and vitamin D in other ways. This would apply more for people that do not take the time to carefully plan for their children’s nutritional needs.
While disturbing, the results of this study are not surprising. At least 2/3 of children who are on the autistic spectrum have digestive issues. Many are picky eaters due to sensory overload issues but also due to the fact that even though they cannot express it, because they feel poorly when they eat certain foods. Dairy products and gluten-containing grains are the two main foods that ASD children react to.
I have found in my practice that it is often useful to jump-start these kids’ nutrition intake by using nutrition boosters. These are hypoallergenic drinks that contain free fatty acids, free amino acids, and vitamins and minerals. Once we can get a child adequately nourished, many of their issues either resolve or become easier to deal with. It’s important to build nourishment in children and adults with ASD to see what can be done to optimize their potential. While nutrition is not the only factor in ASD, it is one that is important to address.
While dieticians are great nutritionists, they are not the only qualified nutrition professionals. Also look for certified clinical nutritionists (CCN), certified nutrition specialists (CNS) and certified holistic nutrition professionals (CHN).
Dr. Lipinski, Where does one get these Hypoalegenic drinks? My grand daughter is lactose and wheat intolerant and really needs the extra nutrition. She is only eight , has migranes and is losing weight. Thank you.
Jay - Look for DariFree it’s a Dairy & Gluten free drink made from potatoes it’s calcium fortified.