AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDER AND HOW FOOD CAN INFLUENCE IN QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the influence of nutrition on the lives of people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Method: This is a quantitative and cross-sectional research, exploratory and descriptive, carried out with 134 participants, including people with ASD or responsible for someone with ASD, from different areas of the country, using a questionnaire mixed, using data analysis, identifying the sociodemographic profile, the degree of dependence and/or need for support (mild, moderate or severe autism) and the eating habits of each individual. Results: The data collected indicate that some changes in diet can bring benefits to these people, such as solving gastrointestinal problems, improving sleep, improving concentration, reducing motor and verbal stereotypies, reducing self-aggressive behavior, improving verbal and non-verbal language. verbal, positive boost in affectivity and improvement in eye contact. Conclusion: The majority of interviewees have never tried making dietary changes, which reflects a lack of knowledge among the population about the benefits that an adequate diet for each situation can bring, as well as the harm that the consumption of certain foods can cause in people's lives with ASD, considering that food sensitivity is very common, which can include food allergies, intolerances and sensitivities to gluten or lactose, for example.