By Judy Converse, MPH, RD, LDGet the conversation started. Here are conversation tools that may help keep a good but reluctant provider in your corner, if you would like to discuss using a special diet or nutrition measure.
- “I wouldlike your help and support, because we value you as our primary provider. I know these tools are unfamiliar and you want to do the right thing. Could we agree to trial this for six months?”
- “What would be your concerns with using special diets and nutrition measures? I want to be sure we approach it correctly.”
- “Would you take a look at this lab test I have heard about, so we can consider its benefits together? I would like to try it, and I hope I can have your input.”
- “I’m wondering what your opinion would be on this peer-reviewed literature about using special diets. I found it helpful but it is written for health professionals, and I would value your guidance on how I can use this.”
- “I’m interested in gluten-free to start. Can you refer me to a local celiac support group or organization, or a provider familiar with going gluten-free?”
- “My child is still not potty trained and we have tried everything else. Humor me and let us try antifungal therapy. I have heard that it helps children with bowel incontinence in some cases.”
- “I’m wondering if my child would benefit from a special diet. Would you be willing to work with us on this?” If not: “Can you refer me to someone who can help? I want to be sure we do this safely and effectively. Would you be willing to communicate with that provider?”
What nutrition problems are common in children with autism, ADHD, and other special needs?
Many children with autism, Asperger’s, ADHD, sensory processing disorders, or learning disabilities have nutrition problems stemming from malabsorption, bowel issues, and inadequate diet. These issues can impair learning, growth, and behavior. Clinical experience with hundreds of special needs children shows that addressing nutrition can meaningfully lessen the symptoms of a child’s disorder — and in some cases, improvements can be dramatic when a systematic nutrition-care approach is followed consistently for at least six months.
How do I talk to my doctor about nutrition support for my special needs child?
Start by framing the conversation collaboratively rather than as a confrontation. Bring peer-reviewed articles or professional learning resources to give your doctor something concrete to consider. Ask questions like “Could we agree to trial this for six months?” or “Would you be willing to refer me to a provider familiar with special diets?” Think of yourself as the team leader with your pediatrician as one valued member — not an adversary. If your doctor won’t engage at all, ask for a referral to someone who can.
What specialists should be on my special needs child’s care team?
Beyond your pediatrician, consider adding a licensed registered dietitian specializing in pediatric nutrition, a gastroenterologist, neurologist, licensed naturopathic doctor, and speech, language, or occupational therapist. A Defeat Autism Now (DAN) provider or integrative practitioner who is open to nutrition-based approaches can also be valuable if your primary doctor is reluctant to address diet and nutrition as part of your child’s care.
Can a special diet help a child with autism or sensory processing disorder?
Clinical work with hundreds of special needs children suggests that when underlying nutrition problems like malabsorption and bowel issues are addressed — sometimes through special diets such as gluten-free — children often show real improvement in learning, behavior, and functioning. Results typically require a committed, step-by-step approach sustained for at least six months. Always work with a qualified nutrition professional to ensure any dietary changes are done safely and effectively for your child.
Biography
Judy Converse, MPH, RD, LD, is a licensed, registered dietitian specializing in pediatric nutrition for learning and developmentally disabled children.
Her new book is Special-Needs Kids Eat Right: Strategies to Help Kids on the Autism Spectrum Focus, Learn, and Thrive (Perigee, 2009). More information for parents of special needs kids is at her website, www.NutritionCare.net.
