There have always been attempts to connect abnormal behavior directly to a person's diet. Such behavior includes hyperactivity, autism, sleep disorders and mood swing disturbances in children and adults alike. Here we will focus on the benefits of improving the eating habits in children with autism. Many studies out show that there may be a correlation of a child's diet that triggers certain behaviors of those associated with autism. For example, food additives and sugars seem to have an underlining effect on children who suffer with autism. Thus, knowing what these additives are and limiting them seem to improve the behavior of a child who has autism.
Instructions
1. Look for trigger foods. When looking at the diet you need to be aware of the foods that your child is consuming on a daily bases. If you find that by eliminating certain foods for a few days seems to decrease the symptoms or actions of your child, then by all means eliminate these foods and make note that these are trigger foods that should be avoided whenever possible. It may take a period of trial and error before you know exactly which foods might be trigger foods, but don't give up in your pursuit of finding out what these trigger foods are.
2. Limit trigger foods in the diet. Once you have discovered what these trigger foods are, do not continue to purchase these foods and make them readily available to your children. At first, you may have to limit these foods to every other day, then every few days, until you are able to eliminate them out of the diet completely. Some trigger foods to eliminate would be caffeine, sodas, refined and processed foods, all junk foods and fast foods, artificial colors and preservatives--to name a few.
3. Introduce healthier food choices. Foods to begin introducing into your child's diet would include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts and low-fat yogurt. Along with healthier food choices, try to make eating fun and adventurous as opposed to a struggle and a constant tug-a-war. If time allows, cut sandwiches into their favorite animal shapes, cut carrot sticks up and arrange them on the plate in the form of a teepee, or take cut up fruit and put it on a wooden securer which is easier for him to handle.
4. Lead by example when changing eating habits. Your child looks up and trust you, so why not take charge of improving healthier eating habits that will improve both yours and your child' health.
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