Autism FAQs

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR NEW AUTISM PATIENTS

1. Can I mix the supplements with food or liquids?

Yes. In most cases, unless your doctor has indicated otherwise, supplements can be added to foods and drinks. Excessive heating or cooking is not recommended. To ensure your child gets the full dose, try adding supplements to a small amount of the food or drink and have your child take it before consuming the rest of the food. Foods such as applesauce, banana, smoothies, and strong juices often work well.

2. Do I start the new supplements all at once?

No. It is best to introduce 1 new supplement every 3-4 days. This makes the new schedule easier on your child and allows you to determine any effects (positive or negative) from the medicines.

3. Can I give a supplement just one time per day instead of the recommended 2-3 times per day?

No. Certain supplements must be given in divided doses in order for the body to absorb and use them properly.

4. My child is a very picky eater, how will I change his diet?

Children very often crave the foods that are not good for them. They may refuse to eat anything other than the foods they love; however, once their habit is broken most will accept the new foods and expand their dietary variety. Like with addiction, there can be a withdrawal period at the start of diet changes, with worsening of digestive and/or behavioral symptoms. This usually resolves within a month. Persistence and patience, introducing new foods gradually, and weaning of restricted foods slowly can help increase acceptance and decrease negative reactions.

5. How do I begin the Gluten-free Casein-free (GFCF) diet?

We suggest decreasing dairy products first over a 1 month period, and then eliminating gluten the following month. Finding replacement foods your child accepts is important to the success of implementing this diet. There are many dairy-free alternatives such as rice, soy (if tolerated), almond and potato products including milks, cheeses, yogurts and ice creams. Gluten-free foods are also available in numerous health food stores and some supermarkets. Children will often accept substitute GF pastas, cereals, crackers, bread, waffles, etc. Some trial and error in testing out new food options is to be expected. It can be much easier for the child if the family supports them by joining in the experimenting as well.

6. My child refuses any food with supplements mixed in, how can I get them in?

If your child can spot his supplement-tainted food a mile away, it is best to give it like medicine. Get a bulb syringe or medicine dropper from the drug store and shoot the supplement cocktail into their mouth. For powders or capsules, you will need to mix them with a little water or juice first. Many children do not like this method, but if you approach it as a matter-of-fact part of their daily schedule, they will learn to tolerate it over time. Encouragement and positive reinforcements can go a long way. The initial stages of introducing supplements can be stressful, but think of it as critical to your child’s health, which is not optional. Please see the attached article on Getting Children to Take Supplements.

7. If my child doesn’t have dairy, will he get enough calcium?

To replace calcium that may be missing from your child’s diet, we will recommend a calcium supplement daily. In addition, alternative milks usually are fortified with the same amount of calcium as dairy milk.

8. Where can I find more information and support for the GFCF diet?