Nutritional medical therapy in autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

Objectives. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of commonly used nutritional medical therapies in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method. The study explores the intricate relationship between ASD and nutritional medical therapy. Individuals with ASD often exhibit compromised gastrointestinal (GI) health, including issues with intestinal motility, adverse reactions to certain foods, and nutrient absorption deficiencies. These problems may be caused or exacerbated by restrictive eating behaviors, food preferences, and nutritional deficiencies. Those with GI conditions often display heightened behavioral deficits and imbalances in the overall composition of the intestinal microbiome. Results. The research underscores the importance of an individually tailored approach, considering the diverse nutritional needs and unique preferences of individuals with ASD. Analysis of current studies highlights the potential impact of personalized diets on the quality of life within the complex context of GI conditions associated with ASD. The benefits of current nutritional therapies are summarized, and the mixed results in addressing ASD are analyzed. Gluten-free and casein-free diets, the ketogenic diet, supplementation with fatty acids, and the use of pre-/probiotics demonstrate improvements in managing GI and behavioral symptoms associated with ASD. Customizing the diet is recommended as a multidisciplinary approach, given the complexity of GI-related conditions within the ASD diagnosis and their association with behavioral and neurological deficits. The significance of the results lies in supporting a personalized approach in managing specific ASD symptoms, with a focus on individual nutritional needs. Conclusions. Managing ASD symptoms requires a personalized approach, considering individual nutritional needs, food preferences, and different clinical manifestations.