Review finds that dietary interventions can markedly improve ASD symptoms

Researchers in China report that a large “umbrella” review of multiple meta-analyses suggests that dietary interventions can benefit individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD).

Jiaxin Shi and colleagues reviewed data from 15 meta-analyses involving 118 clinical studies and a total of more than 5,000 children and adults with ASD. Dietary interventions analyzed in the studies included gluten-free and casein-free (GFCF) diets, probiotics, Vitamin D, and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAS). The review, the researchers say, “is the largest evidence-based medical research to date regarding the improvement of ASD clinical symptoms through dietary interventions.”

The researchers found that dietary interventions significantly improved overall symptoms, communication, social interaction, and hyperactivity. Vitamin D supplementation had the most significant positive effect on overall symptoms, and probiotics with mixed strains had a more positive effect on overall symptoms than single-strain probiotics. They did not detect any significant effects of dietary interventions on stereotypical behavior, irritability, lethargy, or inappropriate speech.

The researchers conclude that future large-scale multicenter controlled trials should explore the safety and neurobiological mechanisms of dietary approaches, “with a focus on monitoring changes in objective indicators such as gut microbiota and blood biochemical markers.”

Citations

“Effect of diet intervention on symptoms in autism spectrum disorder: An umbrella review,” Jiaxin Shi, Yichao Cheng, Yenan Wei, Yongbo Shi, and Zhimei Jiang, Research in Developmental Disabilities, April 2026 (online). Address: Jiaxin Shi, Rehabilitation Medical College of Jiamusi University, Jiamusi, Heilongjiang, China, [email protected].