Episode Summary

In this episode, Erin Skinner interviews Melissa Teel, a functional dietitian 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.

This conversation closely reflects the philosophy at Thrive Clinics, where providers focus on root-cause healthcare and personalized nutrition to support cognitive health, gut health, autism spectrum disorders, and overall wellness. Thrive Clinics takes an individualized approach to care, helping families identify nutrition, lifestyle, and environmental factors that may influence neurological and behavioral health.

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!

Connect with Us

Learn more about Thrive Care and schedule an appointment for root-cause care covered by insurance. Thrive's team focuses on personalized nutrition, gut health, hormone balance, and sustainable wellness strategies designed to help patients address the underlying causes of health concerns — not just the symptoms.

Follow Thrive for nutrition, gut health, and wellness education:

• Instagram: @thrive_clinics

• Facebook: Thrive Clinics Facebook

Subscribe to the Empowered Nutrition Podcast and leave a review to help more people discover root-cause healthcare and nutrition.

Ready to dive in? Listen here.