Integrative & Functional Autism Care with Melissa Teel, MS, RD, LDN

Empowered Nutrition

Episode Summary

In this episode, Erin Skinner interviews Melissa Teel, a functional dietician and autism parent, about the impact of diet on autism. They dive into a recent autism reversal study showing the benefits of gluten-free, dairy-free, and low-processed food diets on children's behavior, communication, and cognitive function. Melissa shares her personal journey with these dietary changes and offers practical advice for other families.

Episode Highlights

• Autism Reversal Study: A study found that eliminating gluten, dairy, and processed foods led to significant improvements in autism symptoms. Read the full study here.
• Implementing Dietary Changes: Tips include meal prepping, using gluten-free and dairy-free alternatives, and gradually introducing new foods. Melissa also discusses the GAPS (Gut and Psychology Syndrome) diet, which focuses on gut health.
• Professional Support: Collaborating with dietitians, occupational therapists, and other specialists can enhance the effectiveness of dietary interventions and support the transition.
• Lifestyle Adjustments: Reducing screen time, increasing physical activity, and incorporating sports are beneficial. Recommended supplements include Omega-3s, vitamin D, multivitamins, and probiotics.
• Challenges and Barriers: Financial constraints, lack of support, and the need for gradual dietary adjustments are significant challenges. Melissa stresses the importance of balancing dietary changes with professional guidance.

Resources Mentioned

• Autism Reversal Study: Reversal of Autism Symptoms among Dizygotic Twins through a Personalized Lifestyle and Environmental Modification Approach: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
• Autism Dietitian on Instagram: @autismdietitian, a valuable resource for autism-friendly diets and tips.
• Thrive Clinics: Erin’s clinic offers telehealth services in various U.S. states and in-person services in North Carolina, focusing on nutrition for cognitive health, autism, and much more. Contact Thrive Clinics to empower your health today!

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