Can Diet Affect Autism?

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Autism which was once a lesser known type of cognitive impairment, only being present in 1 out of 1000 children is now seen in 1 out of 110 children. The cause for autism is still unknown, and is highly debated among individuals within the medical field. Now autism is a cognitive impairment that can never be cured, but the life and functioning of an individual living with autism can be changed for the better.

Now an article written by the "Discovery Health and Fit" website states that by altering the environment, and diet of an individual living with autism can actually cause ability within that individual to improve. They state that along with occupational therapy, and other types of treatment a proper diet and regulated environment can actually have a synergistic effect, building on one another to compound their effectiveness. They state that actual food, and not processed items are best, due to the susceptibility individuals living with autism have to gastrointestinal problems. They also state that a healthy environment is key, trying to take away as many chemicals that one may become in contact with as possible. Another, more invasive type of health procedure that they state may be beneficial to individuals living with autism would be "chelation therapy." This therapy helps to remove heavy metals from the body, in turn detoxifying the individual. 

I can speak from experience how a healthy diet, and clean environment can have a profound effect on cognitive functioning. When I was sick for the months after my concussion I found that a healthy diet was key in order to function regularly throughout the day. People cannot truly understand this effect until it becomes a direct presence in your life. This is why I thought it was necessary to share this article, because many people should be aware of how environmental and dietary factors can play a role in health and wellness.