The effectiveness of nutritional interventions to improve expressive language in children with autism

textThis research synthesis evaluates the effectiveness of nutritional interventions on the improvement of expressive language abilities in children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Three nutritional interventions are the focus of this synthesis: 1) Gluten-casein free diet, 2) Magnesium-vitamin B6 supplementation, and 3) Digestive enzyme supplementation. Although three of the six studies included in this synthesis reported positive results, the methodology used to obtain the results was flawed. The positive results cannot be attributed solely to the intervention. While the results achieved in the studies provide enough evidence to justify further research, currently there is not enough evidence to support the use of nutritional interventions to treat expressive language deficits in children with ASD. Additional research with fewer threats to validity is needed to determine the effectiveness of nutritional interventions.Communication Sciences and Disorder