A Review of the Nutritional Approach and the Role of Dietary Components in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Light of the Latest Scientific Research

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects several areas of mental development. The onset of ASD occurs in the first few years of life, usually before the age of 3 years. Proper nutrition is important to ensure that an individual’s nutrient and energy requirements are met, and it can also have a moderating effect on the progression of the disorder. A systematic database search was conducted as a narrative review to determine whether nutrition and specific diets can potentially alter gastrointestinal symptoms and neurobehavioral disorders. Databases such as Science Direct, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WoS), and Google Scholar were searched to find studies published between 2000 and September 2023 on the relationship between ASD, dietary approaches, and the role of dietary components. The review may indicate that despite extensive research into dietary interventions, there is a general lack of conclusive scientific data about the effect of therapeutic diets on ASD; therefore, no definitive recommendation can be made for any specific nutritional therapy as a standard treatment for ASD. An individualized dietary approach and the dietician’s role in the therapeutic team are very important elements of every therapy. Parents and caregivers should work with nutrition specialists, such as registered dietitians or healthcare providers, to design meal plans for autistic individuals, especially those who would like to implement an elimination diet.

Metabolomic changes in children with autism

“…These diets aim to remove any possible dietary triggers that could worsen gastrointestinal symptoms or affect the behavior of individuals with ASD. Some studies have reported that a subset of individuals with ASD who follow these dietary restrictions have experienced improvements in their behavior and gastrointestinal symptoms[ 216 ]. However, the evidence is limited, and further research is necessary to understand the mechanisms better and identify which individuals may benefit from these dietary interventions.…”

Micronutrient deficiency and supplements in schoolchildren and teenagers

“…The autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects several areas of mental development: uncertainty persists as to the efficacy of therapeutic diets [42]. Nevertheless, a retrospective survey of consumers who purchased Autism Nutrition Research Center products (ANRC-EP), a multi-micronutrient product for children or adults with ASD, enrolled 211 people including 85 children aged 5--15 years.…”

An Objective Comparison of the Quality and Reliability of Information Regarding Autism Spectrum Disorder on YouTube

“…Thus, understanding the quality of information available on YouTube about ASD is crucial, given the platform's extensive reach and influence. Although the precise causes of ASD remain unknown, it is considered a multifactorial disorder influenced by environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors [3].…”

“…Thus, understanding the quality of information available on YouTube about ASD is crucial, given the platform's extensive reach and influence. Although the precise causes of ASD remain unknown, it is considered a multifactorial disorder influenced by environmental, genetic, and epigenetic factors [ 3 ]. Diagnosis relies on expert behavioral observations, and while ASD cannot be cured, it can be managed with early intervention programs focusing on social and communication skills; any medications are typically prescribed for co-occurring conditions such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and anxiety, rather than ASD itself [ 4 ].…”