AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AND ALTERNATIVE DIETS

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Complementary and alternative therapies are a frequent topic of discussion in the treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In particular, several diets have been proposed to target ASD symptoms. Prior evidence has suggested limited benefit from such therapies, although they are commonly used in the ASD paediatric population. OBJECTIVE(S): To determine the proportion of children and adolescents with ASD using alternative diets in our area. Other objectives were to explore reasons, information sources, symptom changes, and barriers to use of diets. DESIGN/METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional, anonymous, validated questionnaire with parents of children with a diagnosis of ASD. Participants were recruited to a collection of organizations and support groups dedicated to the provision of care for individuals with ASD. The 15-minute survey utilized a combination of closed-ended and short answer questions. Parents not able to understand written English were excluded. RESULT(S): Overall, 67 parents (response rate of 34%) participated. The male/female ratio of children was 3.6/1. Use of alternative diets (for >3 months) was reported by 74% of respondents. Parents learned about these diets from the Internet (44%) and ASD support group (40%). The diets most commonly used were: gluten-free (77%), low carbohydrate (58%), casein-free (56%), foods free of additives and preservatives (54%) and lactose free (49%). The most successful diet (according to parent report) resulting in improvement of ASD behavioral symptoms was gluten free (19%). Twenty percent reported no improvements with any diets. The reasons most commonly cited for change in diets were to: reduce ASD symptoms (65%), improve general health (63%), and mental/well-being health (61%). Most noticeable improvements were: reduced anxiety (36%), improvement of mood (31%), sleep (28%) and social communication (28%). Fixations and restriction interests were rarely reported as improved (<3%). Cost and following daily diet plan were the major challenges encountered. Parents not using modified diet cited lack of scientific evidence and not believing in diet therapy. Physicians were informed by parents about diet changes 61% of the time. CONCLUSION(S): Alternative diets are frequently used by children with ASD. Parents are not reporting any specific diet as a "miracle" although they have noticed some benefits in general health. Paediatricians need to be aware of the common alternative diets used in patients with ASD. More research is necessary to understand benefits, challenges and risks from alternative diet use in ASD.