Autism is a condition that has a variety of symptoms, and no two people with autism have exactly the same experience with their autism, symptoms, or care. This, among other factors, makes it more difficult to treat autism with medication. Autism does not have a cure, and most medications that are used to treat other mental and medical conditions can make autistic symptoms worse rather than better. Usually, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) that aid with other mental health issues like depression and anxiety can make autism symptoms worse. This leads many to research and try alternative methods of symptom management.
Because of this lack of medication, there are many alternative practices when it comes to treating the symptoms of autism. These treatments can look like food as medicine programs, certain herbs and mushrooms, specific diets and/or supplements. It will take some time to figure out what, if any, diets, or supplements work to manage some symptoms of autism. However, if certain diets work, it can be life changing.
Diets and Food as Medicine Programs
There are many people with autism who choose to eat certain diets because it helps them manage symptoms like attention difficulties, severe anxiety, or aggression management. Recent studies and surveys have shown that certain diets have been proven to reduce and help manage particular autistic symptoms. The most popular overall diets include the Feingold Diet, a low-sugar diet, and a gluten-free casein-free diet (GFCF). But these diets aren’t necessarily the only diets that will work. There are other practices, including an overall healthy diet, a corn-free diet, a keto diet, and a paleo diet. This study and survey also recorded which diets were most effective at treating specific symptoms.
| Top 3 Symptoms | Top 3 diets |
| Anxiety | 1. Keto diet
2. Feingold 3. Specific carb diet |
| Attention | 1. Keto Diet
2. Feingold 3. GFCF |
| Aggression | 1. Feingold
2. Low Sugar 3. Elimination Diet/Food Observation |
Herbs and Mushrooms
Mushrooms have been used in traditional Asian medicine for hundreds of years, and recent studies have discovered that some of these medicinal mushrooms can help manage autism symptoms. These soothing, anti-inflammatory mushrooms include the Lions Mane Mushroom and Reishi. The Lion’s Mane mushroom is a common treatment for autism as well as ADHD, as it reduces brain fog, increases cognitive functioning, and helps treat anxiety. The Reshi mushroom is known as the queen healer and the fungus of immortality because it improves memory, alleviates anxiety, and aids concentration. Chinese medicine describes the mushroom as a relaxing herb that boosts energy without making you sleepy. You can find these mushrooms most commonly in powder form online or at a local food cooperative.
Keep in mind that when trying diets and supplements, they may take a long time to have an effect, and it is all about trial and error. Some may work better than others, and some may not work at all. It all depends on you and your biome.
These diets and tips are meant for people diagnosed with any severity of autism at all ages. Diets can work for a 3-year-old or a 60-year-old. Whatever your age or severity of autism, being flexible and patient is essential, as these diets take time, and it can be so hard to adjust to. No one operates similarly, so learning what works and what doesn’t for you or your child is most important. Take a moment and remind yourself and your loved ones that you will figure it out and things will work.
Autism is a condition that is constantly changing, and doctors, psychiatrists, and therapists are always learning new things about autism. Staying up-to-date and informed about the latest discoveries will be most beneficial for you or your autistic loved one. Many blogs and support groups for those with autism aim to create a community of compassion and love. They share many techniques that work to better and improve the lives of those with autism. They will most likely be tuned in to the latest research and are a fantastic, highly recommended resource. That said, before trying any new or drastic medications, diets, or new techniques, make sure to check with a psychiatrist and/or therapist to ensure there should not be any dire consequences of a new diet or supplement.
References:
The Feingold Diet: Food List, Effectiveness, and Safety (healthline.com)
ANRC Autism Treatment Rater on the App Store (apple.com)
Webinar Therapeutic Diets for Autism – Nourishing Hope
Nutrition and Therapeutic Diets for Children with Autism and ADHD – Nourishing Hope
Medicinal Mushrooms For Autism: See Our Detailed Analysis – Natures Rise
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