Managing Comorbidities in Autism Through Diet and Nutrition

While the core characteristics of autism include challenges in social communication and repetitive behaviors, it is important to recognize that many individuals with autism also experience a range of comorbid conditions. These comorbidities can significantly impact quality of life and include obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, sleep disorders, and gastrointestinal (GI) issues such as reflux, constipation, celiac disease, eosinophilic esophagitis (EOE), and inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD).

Nurturing Autism & ADHD: A Mom and Pediatric Autism Nutritionist's Favorite Essentials

As a mom of a wonderful child on the autism spectrum and a pediatric autism nutritionist, it has been a journey filled with learning, love, and discovery. Over the years, I've come across some incredible tools and techniques that have made a significant difference in my child's life, and I want to share a few of my favorite things that were essential in our daily routine.

Improve Your Child's Sleep

Sleep is vital to health. Sleep deprivation has been linked to inability to focus, irritability, increased anxiety, lowered immune function, and even depression and anger. Sleep is a time for restoration, growth and healing.

Unfortunately, many kids are not getting enough adequate sleep. This is especially true for children with autism and ADHD. Kids 5 to 12 years old need 9 to 12 hours each night. Lack of sleep can lead to impaired motor coordination, loss of good judgment, slower reaction time and poor memory.

Below are some tips to optimize the best sleep for your child.