Autism Awareness: Benefits of Juice Therapy for ASD
Did you know that autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is now the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States? According to the National Library of Medicine, ASD affects 1 in 68 children and is four times more common in boys than girls.
April is National Autism Awareness Month when we focus on increasing awareness and understanding of autism. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate and interact with others. Gastrointestinal issues and nutritional deficiencies are common in autism, making many children with ASD picky eaters.
Autism and Juice Therapy
As a certified juice therapist, I often get asked about the benefits of juice therapy for picky eaters. And while there are many benefits of juice therapy, I believe that one of the most important benefits is that it can help those with ASD. Juice therapy can be an effective treatment for ASD because it can help to ease gastrointestinal issues, which are common in ASD.
Digestive issues can translate into difficulties eating and drinking, leading to malnutrition, dehydration, and other health problems. In honor of National Autism Awareness Month, I want to highlight juices that are especially beneficial for children with ASD.
What foods to avoid with autism?
There are many theories about what causes autism, but one idea gaining traction is that environmental factors, including exposure to heavy metals and pesticides, may play a role. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, it's important to be mindful of the foods you feed your child with ASD.
Common food sensitivities in children with autism include gluten, dairy, eggs, soy, and sugar. It's important to avoid these foods if your child has a sensitivity. In addition, it's essential to avoid foods that are high in artificial colors and flavors, as well as MSG.
Now that we've covered the basics let's look at some of the best juices for picky eaters with ASD.
Best fruits and vegetables for autism
While there is no silver bullet for treating autism, these juices can help offset some of the harmful effects of environmental toxins and promote better health overall.
One of the most important things you can do for someone with ASD is to help them detoxify their body. And the best way to do this is by drinking green juices with cilantro. Cilantro is a powerful detoxifier that can help remove heavy metals from the body. It is also a great source of vitamins and minerals, which can help improve the overall health of someone with ASD.
Another great way to detoxify the body is by drinking green juices made from spinach, kale, and broccoli. These cruciferous vegetables are high in antioxidants and nutrients, which can help to improve the health of those with ASD. They are also high in fiber, which can help to ease gastrointestinal issues.
Fruit juices like mango juice and cantaloupe juice are also great for cleansing the body. They are high in antioxidants and nutrients, and they can help improve the health of those with ASD. They are also high in fiber, which can help ease gastrointestinal issues, and are a great source of vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system.
Autism and nutrition
I recommend using organic fruits and vegetables whenever possible, as they will retain their nutritional value and drink fresh juice on an empty stomach for best results. With juice therapy, pickier eaters can still get nourishment while enjoying delicious and healthy drinks.
The benefits of detoxification and improved nutrition can be life-changing for those with ASD and those who want to help them. So, drink up and celebrate National Autism Awareness Month with these delicious and healthful juices found on Evie's Enlivening Juice List.