Dietary Interventions in Autism Spectrum Disorders

Book excerpt: Given the increased interest in the relationship between diet and autism spectrum conditions, this is a timely publication which is both thorough and balanced in content. Parents and professionals alike will find this book of use by virtue of Ken's meticulous reviews of current scientific evidence for a variety of diets combined with practical advice on the application of such interventions.' - Dr. Paul Whiteley, Autism Research Unit 'Dr. Aitken provides a timely synthesis of diet interventions in autistic spectrum disorders set within a framework of historical and political references. This informative work offers invaluable assistance to the wider clinical team, further enabling effective support and guidance to the ASD community in its quest for a healthy future.' - Rosemary Kessick, former CEO of AiA (Allergy Induced Autism) Research in autism increasingly indicates the existence of different forms of the condition, and the possibility of dietary interventions having a positive effect on symptoms and behaviours associated with autism. The author explores the main dietary approaches that have been advocated in ASD. For each approach, the author explores the potential benefits; evidence for and against the diet and its relation to different genetic conditions; and information, where available, on relevant publications, web resources and support groups. The author proposes an approach, the Simple Restriction Diet (SRD), which he describes in detail, explaining how to implement this approach and how to use it to work out whether a dietary approach is of benefit. This book will be a valuable resource for families, individuals and professionals wishing to understand and explore the possibilities of dietary interventions and the benefits they can have for those on the autism spectrum.