Accumulating evidence establishes a clear link between exposure to pollutants and chemicals with cognitive, motor, and sensory impairments. Scientists believe this is due to epigenetics, where environmental triggers switch specific genes on or off without affecting DNA sequences. In other words, you can reverse the effects of some epigenetic changes by avoiding toxins from chemicals and pollutants. […]
Tag: GFCFSF diet
Complex Gastrointestinal Issues in Autism
Complex gastrointestinal issues in autism require more complex action. When your child is still suffering despite dietary intervention, supplementation, and remedies mentioned in the Constipation and Diarrhea article, it is time to find a qualified gastroenterologist. When Should I Consider a GI Specialist for My Child? Behavior is communication. If your child with autism is […]
Phenols, Salicylates, & Additives
High levels of phenols and salicylates in certain foods seem to negatively affect some children with autism and individuals with sensitive digestive and immune systems.
Tips for Including Dietary Restrictions in Your Child’s IEP
If your child is on a special diet due to food allergies, sensitivities, or aversions, it is essential to include these dietary restrictions in their IEP. This is the only way to guarantee the school has a legal obligation to respect your child’s dietary needs.
Must Schools Provide Meal Modifications for Students on Special Diets?
Federal laws and regulations require public schools to provide meal modifications through the cafeteria service, at no additional cost, to children whose disability restricts their diet. This includes children with autism who are on special diets due to food allergies, sensitivities, or sensory issues. In this article, we will discuss: How students with dietary restrictions […]
Dietary Infractions: How to Prevent Them & What To Do When They Occur
Full adherence to the gluten, casein, and soy-free (GFCFSF) diet is essential to its success. But, the reality is, your child is likely to experience a dietary infraction at some point. While some kids may be fine when this happens, many kids react with even the tiniest of infractions. In fact, one bite of bread […]
Glutamate
Symptoms we often associate with autism—such as anxiety, tics, and inattention—can be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically glutamate and GABA. However, reducing the amount of free glutamate in the brain can help alleviate these symptoms. In this article, we will outline why it is important to balance glutamate and GABA, symptoms to look for, and interventions that are helpful.
Balancing the Gut: Why Do You Want To Be More Alkaline?
The first step towards great health begins with helping the body become more alkaline. One way to achieve this is to add more alkaline foods to your diet. In this article, we will cover the basics of an alkaline diet, including: alkalinity vs. acidity, the health benefits of implementing an alkaline diet, and alkaline foods to include in your child’s diet.
Lyme and Autism
Common Symptomatology Between Lyme and Autism When speaking with children who are chronically ill, it can be difficult to understand what is causing their symptoms. Children, naturally, might not know how to accurately describe their pains or illness. When there are multiple symptoms, it can be even more challenging as they grow and change so […]
An Introduction to Medical Interventions for Autism
Medical interventions for autism can greatly improve your child’s outcome and quality of life. In this article, we will discuss: Why it’s important to consider a medical approach to autism intervention. Give a brief overview of underlying medical issues that can cause autism-like behaviors. Provide links to resources that will help you successfully begin your […]
Fourth of July
Celebrations and holidays gatherings can be very difficult for families with autism. Below are some tried-and-true tips to help make this Fourth of July safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Anxiety in Autism
Anxiety is very common in autism. A meta-analysis showed that almost 40% of kids with autism have at least one comorbid anxiety disorder. This article will discuss symptoms, calming strategies, medical and non-medical reasons for anxiety, and supplements and medications that can help alleviate it. We hope you find it helpful. Symptoms of Anxiety Anxiety […]
Cerebral Folate Deficiency in Autism
Folate (vitamin B9) is very important to brain development. Current research is revealing that many kids with autism have low folate in their brains. This condition, called Cerebral Folate Deficiency, is treatable. Why is Folate Important? Folate supports the metabolism of purines and pyrimidines, which are the building blocks of RNA and DNA, and they […]
GFCFSF Diet on a Budget
Feeding your family a GFCFSF diet on a budget involves using the same basic strategies you would typically use to reduce food costs to your family. Here are some tried-and-true tips for implementing a healthy, gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free diet that is budget friendly.
Picky Eating and Autism
Kids with autism can be extremely selective when it comes to eating. An estimated 46–89% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have feeding problems. ASD children struggle with sensory defensiveness, a need for routine and sameness, and visual overstimulation, which makes expanding the palate difficult. However, there is often more to this equation that […]
What To Do During Summer Months
Many parents worry about their child regressing during the summer break from school. There are multiple ways to keep your child progressing, even in the less structured summer months. Decrease Therapy Time Some families choose to reduce appointments during summer break. There are still plenty of activities to keep your child engaged! Teach your child […]
Going Gluten-Free, Casein-Free, Soy-Free (GFCFSF) in 10 Weeks
Planning on implementing a gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free (GFCFSF) diet for your child? Then you’ve come to the right place! Download this FREE guide for a simple, easy-to-follow plan to help you successfully transition to the GFCFSF diet in 10 weeks. Our guide, Going GFCFSF in 10 Weeks, provides information about: How to remove gluten, casein, […]
Top Reasons to Implement a Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet
There are several reasons why parents should consider a gluten-free, casein-free diet for their child with autism. In this article, we will discuss why this diet is important.
Introduction to the Gluten-Free, Casein-Free, Soy-Free Diet
The gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free (GFCFSF) diet removes all sources of gluten, casein, and soy from the diet. The word “diet” is really a misnomer because this is a lifestyle change. It is a way of seeing food as nourishment for the body and brain. Once you see what gluten, casein, and soy can do to some people’s bodies, you will begin to understand why this diet is important.
Constipation and Diarrhea in Autism (AKA The “Poop” Page)
Autism and gastrointestinal problems go hand-in-hand for many kids. This meta-analysis of several studies published in the Journal of Pediatrics estimates that “the odds of GI symptoms in children with ASD are four times more prevalent than for children without ASD.” The analysis indicated higher levels of GI symptoms in all four areas including general GI concerns, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.