Think back to the last time you had a conversation about autism. What comes to mind? Perhaps you talked about the challenges faced by individuals with autism in social situations, the sensory sensitivities that can make everyday experiences overwhelming, or the importance of early intervention and therapy or even of the Autism best treatment in India. But how often do we discuss the role that diet plays in the lives of people with autism?
While it’s not a topic that’s often top of mind, emerging research suggests that dietary changes, including a ketogenic diet, could significantly impact the symptoms and behaviors associated with autism. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest scientific evidence on the connection between autism and the ketogenic diet, share stories from families who have tried this approach, and offer practical tips for incorporating a ketogenic diet into your loved one’s life.
A ketogenic diet, commonly referred to as the keto diet, is a dietary approach that includes consuming meals that are low in carbohydrates, medium in protein, and heightened in fats. The primary goal of this diet is to shift the body’s metabolism from relying on glucose (derived from carbohydrates) to using ketones (produced from stored body fat) as the primary source of energy. By limiting the intake of carbohydrates, the body’s glycogen supplies become exhausted, leading to the breakdown of fats into ketones. These ketones are then utilized as fuel for the body and brain.
Extensive research has positioned the ketogenic diet (KD) as a potential therapeutic approach for neurological disorders, including autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This dietary intervention shows promising results in improving the core symptoms of ASD and addressing associated issues, such as seizures. Noteworthy studies have highlighted the positive impact of implementing a KD, leading to improved scores on evaluation tests like the Autism Treatment Evaluation Test (ATEC) and the Childhood Autism Rating Scale (CARS). Besides, the incorporation of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) in a modified ketogenic gluten-free diet has been found to have favorable effects on social communication and overall autism diagnostic scores.
A pilot study was conducted to derive the connection between autism and the ketogenic diet, with 30 participants who followed a ketogenic diet for six months. Although the diet was not highly strict, those who adhered to it were able to achieve ketosis. Of the 18 children who remained on the diet, improvements in social behavior, speech, cooperation, hyperactivity, and their learning habits, in general, were observed. Notably, some children progressed to the point of transition
from special education to mainstream education. Surprisingly, these improvements were maintained even after returning to their regular diets, although not in all cases.
The gluten-free casein-free modified ketogenic diet holds promise for children with autism, operating through multiple intricate mechanisms. By removing gluten and casein from the diet, known instigators of autism-like symptoms are effectively eliminated. Moreover, the ketogenic diet yields superior outcomes in comparison to alternative dietary approaches, owing to two primary factors. Firstly, brain cells exhibit enhanced efficiency when they derive energy from ketones rather than sugar. Secondly, ketones exert an inhibitory influence on nerve cells, tempering hyperactivity within the nervous system and mitigating autism-related behaviors and symptoms.
Employing ketones as a source of fuel allows children with autism to circumvent mitochondrial and neuronal challenges that underlie brain dysfunction. Additionally, ketones assume the role of neuroprotective antioxidants, fostering heightened cognitive function, particularly in individuals affected by autism. Furthermore, the ketogenic diet, incorporating gluten-free casein-free modification, positively impacts the delicate balance of the gut microbiome and gut health. This aspect assumes significance, as mounting evidence indicates the involvement of gut health in the manifestations of autism. By embracing whole,
low-carbohydrate foods as part of the dietary regimen, a microbiome conducive to optimal gut and brain health is nurtured.
ASD is a neurodevelopmental disease, and timely and effective treatment help improve the prognosis. There is no effective treatment for ASD children. Many treatments are used for ASD, but there are no curative treatments for all of the core features of ASD. A KD may improve social behavior in ASD via normalizing GABA, improving mitochondrial function, ameliorating inflammatory activity and oxidative stress in the brain, inhibiting the mTOR signaling pathway, and modulating the gut microbiota. However, the effects of KD vary widely between ASD patients, and the underlying mechanisms are not known. ASD children may also reject KD food because of their selective eating habits, which complicates the introduction of a KD to ASD patients. Some studies showed that ASD children have nutrient deficiencies, including vitamin D and folic acid (75). Long-term treatment of a KD likely aggravates the nutritional deficiency. The benefits of long-term KD treatment in ASD children are not known.
It is crucial to emphasize that the implementation of the ketogenic diet for an autistic child should be undertaken in collaboration with healthcare professionals who can assess the child’s individual requirements and circumstances. Seeking guidance from a Pediatric Psychologist in Nashik or a Pediatric Neurologist in Nashik like Dr Nikhil Pawar of Vidya Vikas Hospital, one of the best institutions for Autism treatment in Nashik is essential, as their expertise can provide invaluable insights and ensure the safe and appropriate application of the ketogenic diet specifically tailored for children with autism.