Nurturing Neurological Sensitivities: Exploring Sensory Dysregulation in Autism and Beyond

Sensory processing plays a pivotal role in a child's development, influencing their responses to various stimuli. For some children, particularly those with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other neurological conditions, sensory dysregulation can pose significant challenges. In this article, we will delve into the definition of sensory dysregulation, its manifestations, potential causes, and explore the intricate relationship between sensory dysregulation and pain, sound sensitivity, tactile issues, taste preferences, and picky eating.

Autism ComorbidiitesWellness SpeaksDecember 4, 2023sensory processing disorder

Unveiling the Link Between Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Autism: A Comprehensive Guide to Treatment, Diet, and Supplements

While the exact causes of autism remain elusive, emerging research suggests a potential connection between mitochondrial dysfunction and the development of autism. Mitochondria, often referred to as the powerhouses of the cell, play a crucial role in energy production and cellular function.

Nourishing Journeys: Traveling Tips and Healthy Snacks for Your Sensory Sensitive Picky Eater

Embarking on a journey with a sensory-sensitive child who is also a picky eater can present unique challenges for parents. Trying to stick to a clean eating, gluten-free, dairy-free, and soy-free dietary requirements while keeping sensory considerations in mind while traveling can be quite challenging!

Sensory ProcessingWellness SpeaksNovember 17, 2023traveling with autism, picky eating

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.

Recipes, Autism DietWellness SpeaksNovember 13, 2023Thanksgiving, allergies in kids, gluten free recipes, casein free

The Role of Neurotransmitters in Autism and ADHD Treatment

The significance of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, GABA, glycine, taurine, glutamate, histamine, 5-HTP, and oxytocin in autism and ADHD is a key factor in understanding these conditions. Diet and specific nutrients, such as B vitamins, act as precursors in producing these neurotransmitters in the gut. Urine neurotransmitter panel testing can be very useful in determining the specific nutritional needs of these children.

Amino Acid Treatments for Aggression and Anxiety in Children with Autism: Unlocking the Potential

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a wide range of symptoms and challenges. Among these challenges, aggression and anxiety are common issues that parents and caregivers of children with autism face. Essential amino acids, in particular, have shown promise in improving behaviors in children with autism, especially in terms of aggression and anxiety.

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!

RecipesWellness SpeaksOctober 23, 2023dairy free recipes, gluten free recipes, recipes, Autism diet

Understanding Sensory Issues in Children, with a Focus on Autism: Causes and Solutions

Sensory issues can significantly impact a child's daily life, causing discomfort, anxiety, and even hindering their development. This is particularly true for children with autism, who often struggle with sensory processing. It is important to identify the causes of sensory issues in order to properly treat the root problems. Exploring sensory processing disorder, brain involvement, and the role of specific nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, vitamin D and specific B vitamins can be crucial in the therapy process. Additionally, the connection between the gut and the brain, and how the gut microbiome can influence sensory processing disorders is an important piece of the puzzle of sensory processing. There is also a strong link between sensory processing disorder and selective eating. Emphasizing the importance of an appropriate diet and supplements as part of the autism therapy process is crucial.

Harnessing the Power of Probiotics: A Promising Approach to Enhance Brain Health, Cognition, and Behavior in Children with Autism and ADHD

Scientific breakthroughs have shed light on the intricate relationship between our gut microbiome and brain health. Probiotics can play a major role in improving digestive health and the gut microbiome. This in turn has great benefit on brain health, cognition and behaviors in children with autism and ADHD.

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.

Unraveling the Connection Between Gluten Sensitivity and Autism in Children

As a pediatric nutritionist, my passion lies in helping children achieve their optimal health and well-being. There has been growing research and interest in the relationship between gluten sensitivity, including celiac disease and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS), and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

The Gut Microbiome's Connection to Autism and ADHD: Understanding the Impact of Frequent Antibiotics

In recent years, research has shed light on the intricate relationship between the gut microbiome, neurodevelopmental disorders like autism and ADHD, and the use of antibiotics. Frequent antibiotics can have a major impact on the gut microbiome of children with autism and ADHD, and a holistic approach to nutrition and healthcare can make a significant difference.

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.

Vitality of Micronutrient Testing in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder and ADHD

Children with ASD and ADHD often exhibit patterns of nutrient intake that fall below recommended levels for various crucial components. These include calories, protein, carbohydrates, fat, fiber, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, calcium, and iron. These deficiencies can detrimentally impact growth, cognitive function, immune health, and overall well-being. Integrating comprehensive micronutrient testing into the assessment process allows for personalized dietary recommendations to rectify these shortcomings.

Functional TestingWellness SpeaksAugust 28, 2023autism, adhd, micronutrients, testing

Exploring the Link Between Iron Deficiency, Behavior, and Sleep in Children with Autism and ADHD

Iron is a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in transporting oxygen throughout the body, supporting brain development, and maintaining a healthy immune system. In children with autism and ADHD, iron deficiency can exacerbate existing challenges by contributing to behavioral issues and sleep disturbances.

Back-to-School Gluten-Free and Casein-Free Lunchbox Ideas

As the back-to-school season approaches, if your child has dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free and casein-free needs, you may be seeking nutritious and delicious lunchbox ideas to keep your little ones fueled throughout the school day. It's important to provide balanced meals that contain protein, fiber, and healthy fats to support their growing bodies and active minds. In addition to focusing on the contents of the lunchbox, we'll also explore eco-friendly lunchbox packing options, specifically stainless steel items from trusted brands like LunchBots, PlanetBox, and Bentgo.

Understanding Nutrient Absorption Challenges in Children with Autism and ADHD

Autism and ADHD can present challenges in nutrient absorption, leading to potential deficiencies. There can be many reasons behind this issue and it is essential to get to the root cause and explore factors such as digestive enzyme insufficiency, gut dysbiosis, constipation, gut inflammation, and nutrient-depleted foods.

Multivitamins: Why they are not enough to meet the needs of most children with autism or nutrient insufficiency

While multivitamins are commonly used to supplement essential nutrients, they may not be sufficient for children with nutrient deficiencies or those with autism who require extra Methylated B vitamins, Vitamin D and minerals such as magnesium and zinc.

The Importance of Functional Medicine Testing for Autism and ADHD

While conventional medicine offers valuable insights into these conditions, the rapidly evolving field of functional medicine testing has provided us with a deeper understanding of the intricate connections between gut health, nutrient deficiencies, heavy metal toxicity, and food sensitivities in these children.

Signs and Symptoms of Food Sensitivities in Children: Understanding the Link with Behavioral Issues, Digestive Problems, Rashes, and ADHD and Autism

As a pediatric clinical nutritionist, I often encounter concerned parents seeking guidance on their child's food sensitivities. It's crucial to understand the signs and symptoms associated with food sensitivities, as they can manifest in various ways, including behavioral issues, digestive problems, rashes/eczema, and even attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Moreover, children with conditions like autism and ADHD are more prone to developing food sensitivities.

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