10 September 2005 - Reading - Food For Thought: Nutrition and Emotions

PEACH (Parents for Early Intervention for Autism in Children) - Annual Conference
Reading Town Hall

This year's conference will focus on two major issues. Dr Alex Richardson will talk about the relationship between behaviour and nutrition. Dr Alan Watkins will address the issue of emotions as they relate to managing a child with autism and an ANA team.

Dietary Issues in Autistic Spectrum Disorders - Can Nutrition Help?
Alex Richardson

Nutritional and biochemical approaches are not yet standard practice in the identification or management of autistic spectrum disorders, but increasing evidence shows that dietary factors can affect behaviour, learning and mood as well as physical health, and that many of these may be of particular relevance to individuals with autistic spectrum disorders.
In this talk, Alex Richardson will explain the latest scientific research into dietary factors in autism and its practical implications for parents and professionals. Key points will include:

• Why a nutritional approach to autism and related developmental conditions makes sense
• Omega 3 fatty acids and the brain - getting the fats right
• Other key nutrients - vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and essential amino acids
• Digestion and intestinal health - enzymes, gut flora and membrane permeability
• Food allergies and intolerances - immune reactions and behaviour patterns
• Dietary interventions for autism - theory and evidence
• Practical approaches - your questions answered