The Autism & ADHD Diet

April 1, 2009
The number of children diagnosed with autism is rising, and parents of autistic children often discover that it is difficult to find solutions. Nutrition is frequently neglected because physicians receive little training in the subject, but many parents and nutritional therapists find that using special diets helps children to calm down, focus, and communicate better. These three books written by parents of autistic children provide useful information about nutrition therapy for children on the autism spectrum; Converse and Lord are registered dietitians certified by the American Dietetic Association. Converse's "Special-Needs Kids Eat Right" is the most comprehensive, including information about the diagnosis and treatment of autism, special diet plans, and the use of supplements, as well as explanations of the various special diets being used. Lord and Silberberg concentrate on the gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet. All three books provide sound advice about getting children started on the diet, shopping lists, recipes, and dealing with picky eaters. Silberberg offers an excellent list of web sites, including sites providing information about sticking with special diets while visiting other countries. Converse provides an extensive resource guide with materials on both traditional and alternative therapies. All three books are highly recommended; buy "Special-Needs Kids Eat Right" if you can afford only one.Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L.

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