5 Steps to Take Today to Help Your Picky Eater with Autism Add More Nutrients to Their Diet

Feeding a child with autism can present unique challenges, especially when they have food aversions, sensory sensitivities, or a limited diet. Ensuring they get the nutrients they need is crucial for their overall well-being and cognitive development. Picky eating in children with autism can often result in nutrient deficiencies, leading to a range of issues such as low energy, poor concentration, or even gastrointestinal problems. However, with the right approach, you can gradually encourage your child to explore new foods and increase their nutrient intake. Here are five actionable steps to take today to help your picky eater with autism add more nutrients to their diet, plus a delicious recipe to get started.

The GAPS Diet: A Nutritional Approach to Autism and Neurological Conditions

The GAPS diet, or Gut and Psychology Syndrome diet, is a nutritional protocol designed by Dr. Natasha Campbell-McBride. This diet aims to heal the gut lining and restore healthy gut flora, which is believed to influence neurological conditions such as autism, ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, and depression. Dr. Campbell-McBride developed the GAPS diet based on the understanding that a compromised gut can lead to toxins entering the bloodstream and affecting brain function, a concept often referred to as "leaky gut syndrome."

Autism Diet, Recipes, Sensory ProcessingWellness SpeaksJune 3, 2024autism therapy, autism diet

Strawberries 4 Ways: Delicious Autism-Friendly Recipes for Picky Eaters

For children with autism, food aversions and sensory sensitivities can make meal planning a challenge. However, incorporating a variety of textures and flavors can make a significant difference. Strawberries are a versatile and nutrient-rich fruit that can be enjoyed in several ways. Here, I present four delightful strawberry recipes: fresh cut in cute shapes, frozen, baked, and dried. Each method offers a unique sensory experience that may appeal to even the pickiest of eaters.

Autism Diet, RecipesWellness SpeaksMay 24, 2024autism picky eating

Homemade Fruit Popsicles with Added Coconut Milk

This delicious snack is filled with great nutrients and does not contain gluten, dairy, soy or any artificial food dyes or additives.

Navigating Picky Eating with Autism: 5 Gluten-Free, Casein-Free, Soy-Free Recipes

Picky eating is a common challenge for many families, but it can be particularly complex when navigating the dietary preferences and sensitivities of a child with autism. For children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory sensitivities, texture aversions, and rigid eating habits often accompany their condition, making mealtime a potential source of stress for both children and parents alike. Check out these kid favorite recipes turned gluten-free, casein-free and nutrient dense.

Nutritional Variety: A Guide to Food Chaining for Autism and Picky Eaters

For parents of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or those dealing with picky eaters, mealtime can be a daily struggle. Nutritional concerns coupled with limited food preferences can make it challenging to ensure a balanced diet. Enter food chaining – an innovative and systematic approach to expanding a child's palate.

Inclusive and Nourishing Valentine's Day Treats for Children with Autism, ADHD, and Food Allergies

When planning Valentine's Day celebrations at school, it's crucial to consider the dietary restrictions and sensitivities of all children. Creating an inclusive environment not only ensures that every child can participate in the festivities but also promotes understanding and empathy among classmates.

RecipesWellness SpeaksFebruary 9, 2024Valentines Day Treats, autism diet, dye-free

Avocado: A Superfood for Brain and Gut Health in Children with Autism Spectrum and ADHD

Avocado, often hailed as a superfood, is not only a delicious addition to meals but also a powerhouse of nutrients with numerous health benefits. Research has uncovered its potential positive impact on brain health, gut health, and its role in supporting children on the autism spectrum and those with ADHD.

Nourishing Thanksgiving: Clean, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, and Soy-Free Feast for the Family

Thanksgiving is the perfect time for family, gratitude, and loads of delicious food! As a nutritionist for kids, I'm all about making sure everyone gets to join the feast. So, here's a guide to creating a spread that’s tasty, allergen-friendly, and totally kid-approved. These recipes are gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free for those kiddos with special diets like autism or who are just a bit selective about what they eat.

RecipesWellness SpeaksNovember 13, 2023Thanksgiving, allergies in kids, Autism diet

Clean Eating, Gluten-Free, and Dairy-Free Halloween Treats for Children for Autism

Halloween is a time of joy and excitement for children, filled with costumes, candy, and spooky decorations. However, for children with autism, it can also be a challenging time due to the abundance of sugary, artificial treats that can have a negative impact on their behavior. Steering clear of high-sugar and artificial food dyes is crucial for children with autism and can lessen sensory overload reactions. See below for some fun and healthy Halloween treats!

Recipes, Autism DietWellness SpeaksOctober 23, 2023dairy free recipes, gluten free recipes, recipes, Autism diet

Nourishing Children with Autism and ADHD: Nutrient-Dense, Kid-Friendly, Gluten-Free, and Casein-Free Foods

As a pediatric clinical nutritionist specializing in autism who also has a child on the autism spectrum and a former picky eater, I understand how challenging it can be to add new foods or change the current eating habits of a child. One approach that has shown promise in improving symptoms and overall well-being is the adoption of a nutrient-dense, gluten-free, and casein-free diet. One approach that many parents have success with is taking the child’s favorite foods and making them a little healthier.

A Nutritional Superhero for Children on the Autism Spectrum

Sweet potatoes, with their vibrant orange hue and sweet flavor, are more than just a delicious addition to family meals. They are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a plethora of vitamins and minerals that are particularly beneficial for children on the autism spectrum. In this article, we will explore the fantastic benefits of sweet potatoes for these children, highlighting the specific vitamins they contain and various creative ways to incorporate this superfood into their diets.