Food for Autism - Essays & Recipes

Since I started out knowing little about autism, I did some research. Please remember that this chapter is not written by a medical doctor and is offered for your information only. Besides, if you are the parent of a child with autism you already know a lot more than I do about the condition afflicting your child.

According to the Diagnostic and Statistic Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD, is a developmental behavioral disorder characterized by socialization and communication impairment. It is also described as stereotypical and restricted patterns in behaviors, interests and activities. Typically, children suffering from ASD present hypersensitivity or hyposensitivity to sensory stimulus. They might display intense reactions to loud sounds, bright lights, unwelcome touch, unknown tastes and smells. They have a hard time integrating with other kids in social situations, changes in their daily routine and adjusting to new things or environments. They also tend to repeat the same behavior and thought processes over and over. They may develop fixations on certain objects or people.