Diet as supportive therapy for autistic children

Delicious cuisines based on ‘Autism Friendly Foods' were displayed by the parents at the contest conducted as part of the school's nutrition awareness programme. They could understand that diet therapy could serve as a supportive therapy for autistic children, Dr. Geetha said.

Autistic children participating in an art therapy session organised by Pravaag Transitional Centre for Children with Autism in Tiruchi recently. Photo: R. Ashok

For parents of autistic children, taking part in the cookery contest organised recently by Pravaag, transitional centre for autism, was a welcome opportunity to learn about diet as a supportive therapy.

Delicious cuisines based on ‘Autism Friendly Foods' were displayed by the parents at the contest conducted as part of the school's nutrition awareness programme. Alongside serving as a platform for parents to exhibit their culiniary skills, the contest, according to the Centre Director Geetha, enabled parents to learn and practice a variety of recipes suitable for their children. They could understand that diet therapy could serve as a supportive therapy for autistic children, Dr. Geetha said.

The parents also interacted with M. V. Alli, Assistant Professor, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Seethalakshmi Ramaswami College, who highlighted the need to use fresh, natural, and healthy foods for improving the nutritional status of autistic children. A 'Designer Diet' in the form of a cyclic menu was developed exclusively for each child. The composition and nutritive value of the diet were calculated to meet the RDA (recommended daily allowance).

Prof. Alli also explained the higher nutritional utility of home made cereal -pulse based nutrient mixtures compared to commercial products. The parents got their doubts on various aspects of food and nutrition clarified on the occasion.