Although autism is primarily a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior, some studies suggest there is an inflammatory component of the condition.
While there is no strong evidence to support any one particular diet for treating or curing autism, diet can have a significant impact on the body’s inflammation.
The Best Foods to Fight Inflammation in Autism
Certain foods are thought to increase systemic inflammation and some foods can help lower inflammation.
The most inflammatory foods are ones that are processed and contain many additives including lots of added sugar and oils. Usually these foods have been changed dramatically from their original form.
That means the healthiest (anti-inflammatory) foods are whole foods, ones that aren’t processed and that contain few added ingredients. These are your fruits and vegetables, fatty fish, many nuts and seeds, herbs, and spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger.
The Best Anti-inflammatory Snacks for Autistic Kids
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Veggie plate (broccoli, peppers, cucumber) with guacamole
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Celery boats with almond butter and raisins
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Cinnamon Roll or Cherry Pie Lara Bar
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Zucchini pizza boats with tomato sauce (no added sugar), buffalo mozzarella, and basil
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Green monster dip with veggie sticks (carrots, asparagus, zucchini)
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Frozen grapes
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Veggie chips and no sugar added salsa
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Berry smoothie *can omit the protein powder
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Olive oil roasted cinnamon chickpeas *okay to omit or reduce the sugar
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Salmon jerky
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Egg muffin with veggies (leafy greens like spinach or kale)
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Trail mix with dark chocolate, dried cherries, raisins, walnuts, and almonds
More Healthy Snacks for Kids with Autism
For even more snacks and sensory categories for kids with autism, SPD, and texture preferences check out my Sensory Snack Guides.
The Sensory Snack Guide for picky eaters have kid-approved snacks for the most common sensory food preferences found in kids with autism and SPD:
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crunchy snacks
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soft snacks
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smooth snacks
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salty snacks
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sweet snacks
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warm snacks
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cold snacks
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high sensory snacks (big texture or flavor for sensory seekers)
Recap
Inflammation may be a component of autism. Certain foods can help less or exacerbate inflammation. Anti-inflammatory foods are the best ones to add to an autism diet.
You can also find more snack ideas here and here.
Homework
Select 1-2 snacks to try this week. Add the ingredients to your grocery list if you don’t have them at home.
And!
My autism nutrition program is perfectly designed for kids with autism who have limited diets and trouble trying new foods. If you worry your child won’t eat anything of those anti-inflammatory foods, sign up for a complimentary call to find out more about getting the support you need to expand his or her diet.
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