As discussed in my previous post, in order to improve brain function, one must have
a healthy gut. We concluded that the top 5 foods to eliminate in order to improve
gut bacteria are: gluten, dairy, corn, sugar, and artificial ingredients. We unpacked
the inflammatory effects of gluten, and today we will consider the other 4 foods and
why they should be eliminated.
Casein, a protein found in dairy and difficult to digest, can trigger a similar reaction
as gluten. In people with leaky gut, these proteins can pass through the intestinal
wall and cause problems such as: brain fog, inability to concentrate, and a numbness to pain. According to Dr. Amen, when people with ASD removed dairy from their diet, they began talking more, their hyperactivity was reduced, and bowel problems were resolved.
According to the USDA, corn is the top pesticide-using crop in the nation. There is
more and more research showing a potential link between the exposure to the
herbicide glyphosate and the risk of autism. Additionally, in comparison with other
grains, corn has the most unhealthy fatty acid profile, being high in inflammatory
Omega-6 fatty acids. According to a 2015 study, corn is also a breeding ground for
fungi.
Sugar is pro-inflammatory, and in excess impairs both our cognitive skills and self-
control. Sugar increases erratic brain cell firing as well. In addition to it being
extremely addictive, research shows that children with autism often have poor
metabolism of sugars, caused by a lack of enzymes and transporters needed for their
digestion. According to Dr. Amen, “Avoiding sugar and refined carbohydrates and
increasing lean protein consumption can dramatically improve concentration and
judgment, and decrease impulsiveness.”
Now let’s touch on the impact of artificial ingredients that are added to so many
foods. These include additives, preservatives, dyes and artificial colors, as well as
artificial sweeteners. According to Dr. Josh Axe, “Children with autism, especially
those with ADHD, can be sensitive to a variety of food dyes and colorings.” A 2007
study in the U.K. showed that artificial colors and/or the common preservative
Sodium Benzoate increased hyperactivity in children. A 2019 study suggests that
the preservatives found in processed foods may be linked to the spike in autism. In
addition, the artificial ingredients on our food supply may possibly be linked to
autism symptoms, according to research.
In the next part, we will continue the discussion by talking about the importance of
healing the gut and other steps that can be taken to achieve this.
-Shannon Ebbers
Nutrition and Cognitive Therapist