The Effects of Dietary Approaches and Nutritional Supplements in Autism
Year 2023, Issue: 51, 324 - 333, 31.08.2023
Ayça YILMAZ
Sabiha Zeynep Aydenk KÖSEOĞLU
https://doi.org/10.31590/ejosat.1295896
Abstract
ASDs (Autism Spectrum Disorders); is a neurodevelopmental disorder in which the symptoms and effects are different in each individual and there is an increase in prevalence worldwide. The increase in ASDs prevalence may be due to the increase in diagnostic criteria. The causes of ASDs are thought to be genetic, environmental and neurobiological factors. In recent years, studies have been conducted on the effect of dietary approaches on improving ASDs symptoms. Researchers are studying on dietary approaches based on the interaction between the brain and the gut. This review includes studies on the most popular dietary approach, the gluten-free and casein-free diet, and the effects of Omega 3, vitamin D, vitamin B12, folic acid and probiotic supplements on ASDs core symptoms. The results of the studies are evaluated according to special ASDs symptom criteria scores. The limited number of studies, the low number of participants in some studies and the lack of significant improvements are seen as limiting aspects of the studies.
Keywords: Autism, ASDs, Diet, Supplementation