Autism and Diet

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Autism is a complex developmental and neurological condition that typically appears during the first three years of life. It affects brain function, particularly in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Classic symptoms include delayed talking, lack of interest in playing with other children, not wanting to be held or cuddled, and poor eye contact. There is no known cause for autism, but both genetics and environment are believed to play a role.


Approximately one in every 150 American children has autism or a similar disorder. The number of children being diagnosed with autism is growing at a rate of 10 percent to 17 percent per year. It is four times more common in boys than in girls.
People with autism often repeat behaviors and have narrow, obsessive interests. These types of behavior can affect eating habits and food choices. This can lead to health concerns like:

•                Limited Food Selection/ Strong Food Dislikes. Someone with autism may be sensitive to the taste, smell color and/or texture foods. They may limit or totally avoid some foods and even whole groups of foods. Common dislikes include fruits, vegetables and slippery, soft foods.
•                Not Eating Enough Food. Kids with autism may have difficulty focusing on one task for an extended period of time. It may be hard for a child to sit down and eat a meal from start to finish.
•                Constipation. This problem is usually caused by a child’s limited food choices. It can be remedied through a high-fiber diet, plenty of fluids and regular physical activity.
•                Medication Interactions. Some stimulant medications used with autism, such as Ritalin, lower appetite. This can reduce the amount of food a child eats, which can affect growth. Other medications may increase appetite or affect the absorption of certain vitamins and minerals. If your child takes medication, ask your health-care provider about possible side effects.

What About a Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet?

Some people feel a gluten-free, casein-free diet improves the symptoms of autism. Gluten is a type of protein found in wheat, rye and barley. Casein is a protein found in milk. Proponents of the diet believe people with autism have a “leaky gut,” or intestine, which allows parts of gluten and casein to seep into the bloodstream and affect the brain and central nervous system. The belief is, this may lead to autism or magnify its symptoms.


To date, controlled scientific studies have not proven this true. However, some people report relief in symptoms after following a GFCF diet. If you are considering a GFCF diet, talk with your health-care team, including a registered dietitian. There can be side effects and potential nutrient shortfalls when a GFCG diet is self-prescribed.

Working With a Registered Dietitian

Just about every child, with or without autism, can be choosy and particular about the foods he or she eats. A registered dietitian can identify any nutritional risks based on how your child eats; answer your questions about diet therapies and supplements advertised as helpful for autism; and help guide your child on how to eat well and live healthfully.
Find a Registered Dietitian.


Reprinted with permission from Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics