Does Dairy Harm or Help? What Autism Parents Need to Know?

When it comes to feeding your child, you want to make the best choices for their health and wellbeing. For some families, that means considering whether certain foods might trigger behavioral issues. One of the most commonly debated food groups is dairy products.

Some parents and health experts argue that dairy products can cause issues for children with autism spectrum disorder. While the research is mixed, some studies have suggested that cutting out dairy from a child’s diet could potentially:

• Reduce gastrointestinal (GI) issues like bloating, gas, and constipation that are common in kids with autism. Dairy contains sugars that are hard to digest and break down for those with GI sensitivities.

• Lessen behavioral problems – Some children with autism have a sensitivity to the proteins in dairy that can impact brain function and cause irritability, hyperactivity, or focus issues. Removing dairy may improve these behaviors.

• Positively impact sleep – GI discomfort and behavioral changes from dairy can worsen sleep problems that already affect many children with autism.

However, other research has found no clear link between dairy and autism symptoms. Dairy is also an important source of nutrients like calcium, protein, and vitamin D for growing kids. So cutting it out of your child’s diet should be a careful decision.

If you do choose to try a dairy-free diet for your autistic child, look for calcium and vitamin D supplements to avoid deficiencies. Monitor your child closely for any changes in behavior, sleep, or GI issues that could indicate a dairy sensitivity. But remember that other factors like illness, stress, and developmental changes may also be at play. Work closely with your child’s doctor to determine what diet is best suited to their individual needs.