Nutrition in Physiopathology: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Nutrition in physiopathology
AUTISM SPECTRUM
DISORDER
Xana Alejandra Martínez Toledo
Autism Spectrum Disorder (asd)
Developmental disorder that affects communication,
behavior, and social interaction. It is characterized by a
wide range of symptoms and severity levels, hence the
term "spectrum."
People with ASD may have difficulty with social
interactions and communication, repetitive behaviors, and
may show intense interests in certain topics.
spectrum
Reflects the wide variety of symptoms and severity
levels found in individuals with autism.
Neurodevelopmental Disorder
Affects brain development, influencing
communication and behavior.
Lifelong Condition
Although symptoms can change over time,
Characteristics of asd
Communication Difficulties:
Verbal: Delays in speech development, limited vocabulary,
or complete lack of speech.
Nonverbal: Difficulty with eye contact, facial expressions,
and gestures.
Social Interaction Challenges:
Trouble understanding social cues and engaging in
reciprocal social interactions.
Limited interest in sharing experiences or emotions with
others.
Repetitive Behaviors and Restricted Interests:
Engaging in repetitive movements or speech (e.g., hand-
flapping, echolalia).
Strong attachment to routines or specific topics of interest.
Characteristics of asd
Sensory Sensitivities:
Over- or under-reactivity to sensory inputs such as light, sound,
texture, or taste.
Cognitive Variability:
Some individuals may have intellectual disabilities, while others
may possess average or above-average intelligence, often with
unique strengths in areas like memory or attention to detail.
Risk factors
Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing ASD:
Genetic Factors:
Family history of ASD or other neurodevelopmental disorders.
Certain genetic conditions such as Fragile X syndrome and Rett syndrome.
Parental Factors:
Advanced parental age (both maternal and paternal) at the time of
conception.
Complications during pregnancy and childbirth.
Environmental Factors:
Prenatal exposure to certain drugs, chemicals, and infections.
Low birth weight and preterm birth.
Gender Differences:
ASD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than in girls, though girls may
exhibit different symptoms that can lead to underdiagnosis.
clasification
Rett Syndrome austism
asperger syndrome heller syndrome

epidemiology
It is estimated that, worldwide, one in 100 children has
autism (ASD). This estimate represents an average
figure, since the observed prevalence varies
considerably between the different studies. However,
notably higher numbers have been reported in some
well-controlled studies.
Pathophysiology
Neurobiological
Genetic Factors: Differences:
Heritability: Brain Structure and Connectivity:
High genetic influence, with multiple Altered brain development, leading to
genes involved. differences in connectivity and brain
Gene Mutations: region function.
Variants in genes related to synaptic Neurotransmitter Imbalances:
function and neural communication. Potential differences in serotonin and
other neurotransmitters that affect
mood and behavior.
Pathophysiology
Environmental Immune System
Factors: Involvement:
Prenatal factors like maternal Evidence suggests that immune
infections, exposure to toxins, system dysfunction might play a
and birth complications. role in the development of ASD.
Interaction between genes and
environmental influences.
diagnose
Diagnosis of ASD is typically made based on behavioral observations and developmental history.
Developmental Comprehensive
Screening Diagnostic Evaluation:
Early identification through Conducted by specialists such as
screening tools like the Modified psychologists, developmental
Checklist for Autism in Toddlers pediatricians, and neurologists.
(M-CHAT). Use of standardized assessments like
the Autism Diagnostic Observation
Schedule (ADOS) and Autism Diagnostic
Interview-Revised (ADI-R).
diagnose
Developmental Screening Comprehensive Diagnostic Evaluation
diagnose
Multidisciplinary Differential
Approach Diagnosis
Involvement of a team of
Rule out other conditions with similar
professionals including speech and
symptoms, such as ADHD, sensory
language therapists, occupational
processing disorders, or language
therapists, and educational
impairments.
psychologists.
age in which is more
frequently diagnose autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically diagnosed in early childhood. The age
range during which autism is most frequently diagnosed varies somewhat
depending on factors such as the severity of the symptoms and the awareness
and access to diagnostic services.
Early diagnosis is crucial because it allows for earlier intervention,

which can significantly improve outcomes in terms of language
development, social skills, and overall functioning. Interventions
during the early years, such as speech therapy, occupational
therapy, and behavioral interventions, are most effective when
started as soon as possible.
Early Signs and Concerns:
18 Months to 3 Years
Initial Signs:
Symptoms of autism can often be detected in
children as young as 18 months to 2 years. Parents
or caregivers might notice delays in
developmental milestones such as speech, social
interaction, and play.
Common Indicators:
Lack of eye contact, limited use of gestures,
repetitive behaviors, and challenges in social
interactions are common signs noticed during this
period.
Typical Age for Diagnosis:
3 to 5 Years
Peak Diagnosis Age:
The most common age for an autism diagnosis is
between 3 and 5 years old. This is often when
children are entering preschool or early education
settings, where social and communication
challenges become more apparent.
Diagnostic Process:
During this time, children undergo formal
evaluations that may include behavioral
observations, developmental screenings, and
standardized assessments to confirm the diagnosis.
School Age:
6 to 12 Years
Later Diagnoses:
Some children, particularly those with milder
symptoms or higher-functioning autism, may not
be diagnosed until they are older. This can occur
because their symptoms may be less obvious or
may be mistaken for other developmental issues
or behavioral concerns.
School Observations:
Teachers and school psychologists may identify
issues related to social skills, academic challenges,
or behavioral problems that prompt further
evaluation and diagnosis.
Adolescence and Adulthood:
13 Years and Older
Delayed Diagnoses:
In some cases, individuals are not diagnosed until
adolescence or adulthood. This is often due to a
lack of early access to diagnostic services,
masking of symptoms, or misdiagnosis as other
conditions such as ADHD or anxiety.
Impact of Diagnosis:
Receiving a diagnosis later in life can help individuals
better understand their experiences and
challenges, and can lead to access to appropriate
support and services.
medical
treatment
The only medications approved by the FDA for

children with autism are Abilify and Risperdal. Both
are antipsychotic medications that can help with
irritability and aggression. Medications may also be
helpful for children who also have another diagnosis.
NUTRICIONAL
treatment
Gluten free diet Casein free diet
cereal protein milk protein

nutritional treatment
Gluten and caizen free diet
The theory behind GFCF diets for ASD is that some individuals might have sensitivities to gluten (found in wheat,
barley, rye) and casein (found in milk and dairy). This sensitivity could potentially trigger gut issues or release
compounds that affect the brain.
research important points

Studies on the effectiveness of GFCF diets for ASD are There's no strong evidence to recommend GFCF diets
inconclusive. Some report positive behavioral changes, for all autistic people.
while others show no significant difference. GFCF diets can be restrictive and challenging to
maintain.
Consultation with a doctor or registered dietitian is
crucial before starting this diet
PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT
Physiotherapy can be beneficial for addressing motor

and sensory integration issues in individuals with ASD.
Motor Skills Development
Sensory Integration Therapy
Physical Activity/ Excersice (run, swim. play)
Postural Control
REFERENCES
American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th
ed.).
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2023). Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). (2023). Autism Spectrum Disorder.
World Health Organization (WHO). (2023). Autism Spectrum Disorders.
Autism Speaks: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26418822/
National Autistic Society: https://nourishinghope.com/gluten-free-and-dairy-free-diet-for-autism/

Nutrition in Physiopathology: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Nutrition in Physiopathology: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Nutrition in Physiopathology: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Nutrition in physiopathology

asperger syndrome heller syndrome

Early diagnosis is crucial because it allows for earlier intervention,

The only medications approved by the FDA for

cereal protein milk protein

research important points

Physiotherapy can be beneficial for addressing motor

You might also like