When Food Causes Harm

When Food Causes Harm
Special diets often run the news when it comes to autism food & health, but where should you start? Furthermore, where does it all end? This is a main topic of concern for nearly all of our clients, and there is never a short answer. On one hand, each child is treated individually, on the other hand, many children on the spectrum share commonalities when it comes to the need for special diets. Here is what you should know…
Special diets (such as the Gluten Free Casein Free, Feingold, and Specific Carbohydrate Diet to name a few) :
  • Can be useful in the treatment of symptoms for children on the spectrum.
  • Can be harmful if not approached correctly.
  • May sometimes be a fad, like most diets you see on television.
  • Might be too restricting for children with narrow diets.
  • Should not be used as the first line of diet treatment.
  • Are often the most tolerated when the entire household follows the same diet.
  • May alleviate major symptoms of ASDs.
  • Are just one piece of the food & nutrition ASD puzzle!
Eliminating foods from a child's diet is easy. Doing so safely, takes the help of a nutrition professional. If you, or anyone you know is looking to use a special diet for a child on the spectrum, please advise them to do so with the help of a professional Registered Dietitian Nutritionist! Diets can
be confusing, especially when used with other treatment plans, supplements, and therapies. Don't go at it alone!

A Perfect Citrus Salad

This recipe is perfect for parties and picnics. The salad will hold up for a few days in the refrigerator, and is sure to put a smile on everybody's face!

  • 2 Oranges, peeled and sliced cross-wise
  • 1 Grapefruit segmented
  • 1/2 pint (8 oz) fresh Blackberries
  • 1 Tbsp chopped fresh mint
Mix, serve, & enjoy!
Marina works with the families of children with Autism, Asperger's, PDD-NOS, ADD, and ADHD to create a unique roadmap towards improved health. Parents are valued as equal partners and are ultimately responsible for the case management of their child's treatment. Together, a realistic nutrition care plan will be developed to both fit the child's lifestyle, yet meet his or her health needs in a safe manner.
Marina Bedrossian is a Northport, NY dietitian nutritionist who helps people with holistic nutrition solutions and food sensitivities. Visit this page to schedule an appointment and don’t forget to join the private Facebook group “Ingredients For Healthy Families”  more information here.