The Association Between Autism Spectrum Disorders and Dietary Intake of Carbohydrates in School-Aged Children in Iran: A Case-Control Study

    January 2025 in “ Neuropsychopharmacology Reports ”
    Shirin Tajadod, Zahra Roumi, Saheb Abbas Torki, Seyedeh Hayedeh Mousavi Shalmani, Mahdi Moradi, Zahra Saeedirad, Khadijeh Abbasi Mobarakeh, Saeideh Mohammadi, Soheila Shekari, Pouya Mirzaee, Parsa Bahmani, A Houshyarrad, Saeid Doaei
    TLDR Higher sugar and maltose intake is linked to autism, while total carbohydrates, fructose, and lactose are linked to lower autism rates.
    This case-control study in Iran involved 220 children, half with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and half neurotypical, to explore dietary carbohydrate intake. It found that children with ASD consumed fewer calories, carbohydrates, total fat, insoluble fiber, glucose, galactose, and fructose, but more maltose compared to neurotypical children. No significant differences were observed in total fiber, soluble fiber, crude fiber, sugar, protein, and sucrose intake. The study suggests that the distinct dietary patterns in children with ASD might affect autism-related symptoms, and reducing sugar-rich foods could potentially improve their emotional and social behaviors. However, the study's small sample size and reliance on parental questionnaires limit its conclusions, indicating a need for further research.
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