Protein Supplements

May 7

What are Protein Supplements?

Protein supplements can be used when someone does not consume enough protein or when a person’s protein needs are high due to injury or illness. Protein supplements can come in the form of powders and shakes, protein bars, and amino acid supplements. When amino acids are combined together they make proteins. Amino acid supplements often contain amino acids that are free, not bound to one another. This makes them more easily absorbed.

Children with autism who have Sensory Processing Disorder, low muscle tone, or oral dysphagia may avoid meat due to the texture or the effort needed to fully chew it. Dairy is a good source of protein but it may not be an option for those with sensitivity to it. Children with autism often have digestive dysfunction as well which may impair their ability to break down protein and absorb it properly. In this way, protein supplements may be a useful option to boost protein intake and provide the necessary nutrients without digestive upset.

Food Sources of protein

For food sources, see the protein note.

Are Protein Supplements Beneficial for Autism?

Yes, protein supplements can be beneficial for those with autism that may not be consuming enough protein, along with those that are underweight or undernourished.

There is research to suggest that children with autism consume less protein compared to children who do not have autism. [1 & 2]

Recent research on amino acids (broken down proteins) and autism has led to some interesting findings. In one study, elevated glutamate and decreased essential amino acids were the most distinct characteristics of plasma amino acids of autistic children. This study also suggested that increased tryptophan might be associated with severity of autism. Tryptophan is a precursor of serotonin and quinolinic acid, which are important for brain development and function. Quinolinic acid is also a precursor of NAD+, which is crucial for mitochondrial function. In this way, low plasma tryptophan in autistic children could cause mitochondrial dysfunction. [3]

Certain studies show imbalanced levels of amino acids including high serine [4], low branched chain amino acids [5], and high fecal amino acids. [6] The exact effects of these findings is not known but it has been suggested that elevated serine can impair methylation. It’s possible that higher levels of amino acids in feces may be due to intestinal malabsorption or dysbiosis. This falls in line with other research suggesting that children with autism may have a decreased protein digestive capacity, in which they have less activity of digestive enzymes.

In terms of the benefits of supplementation, one study found that supplementation with N-acetylcysteine, relieved symptoms of irritability in children with autism. [7] Other studies have shown that glutathione levels may be low in children with autism and that 10-45g/day of whey protein for two weeks to six months increases glutathione levels. [8]

For research on autism & protein, see the protein note.

Supplementation*

Note: One thing to keep in mind when searching for a good protein supplement is the presence of pesticides and heavy metals. Prioritize companies that take part in third party, independent testing to verify the quality and safety of their products. The Clean Label Project recently released a report on collagen which you can find here.

Our Favorite Protein Supplements:

Whey

Whey protein comes from the proteins in milk that is obtained during cheese and casein production. [2]
Whey protein is not appropriate for those following a dairy-free diet.
Whey protein contains all 9 essential amino acids.
Examples:

Puori Whey Protein
Just Ingredients Protein Powder (use code AUTISMRD for 10% off!)
Naked Nutrition

Pea

Pea protein is a relatively new plant protein that has gained popularity in recent years for its amino acid profile and high levels of the essential amino acid lysine. [6]

Pea protein has a high essential amino acid content and is easily digestible. [7]
Pea milk is a nutritionally balanced milk alternative. It provides 8 grams of complete protein and up to 50% more calcium per serving than cow’s milk, making it a great alternative for individuals who are intolerant to dairy or soy. Read more in the Pea Milk note.
Examples:

Collagen

Collagen is a fibrous protein that holds together connective tissues in the body, specifically skin, joints, and bones.

Collagen supplements are commonly marketed for improving skin complexion and evidence shows that they help with skin aging. Click here to read more on collagen.

Examples:

Amino Acids

Supplementing with an elemental formula (amino acids) can be helpful for children with multiple food allergies or for those that have GI damage and need a formulation that is easily absorbed.

Amino acid supplements typically include individual amino acids, like tryptophan or lysine. They are usually advertised as targeted remedies for a specific health issue.

Other options

Zego plant based protein powder is gluten and dairy free and made from sacha inchi seeds. It is also third party tested for glyphosate, heavy metals and other toxins.

Mary Ruth Organic protein powder is made from pumpkin seeds.
Perfect Supplements has a plant based protein powder made from pumpkin, hemp and sacha inchi seeds.

Soy

Soy protein comes from soybeans and may offer many different health benefits.

While soy is a plant-based protein that offers a variety of nutrients, its use may be contraindicated in autism due to high levels of glyphosate, genetic modification, and a similar molecular structure to gluten and casein. Some studies show soy-based infant formula may be associated with deficits in language, communication, hypersensitivity, and even seizures. For more information on soy, see the Soy note.

DISCLAIMER: Before starting any supplement or medication, always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure it is a good fit for your child. Dosage can vary based on age, weight, gender, and current diet.

*Some supplements are linked to Amazon for convenience, however, buying supplements on Amazon does not guarantee quality, as there are many “unverified resellers” selling nutrition supplements. To buy supplements that are verified to be sent directly to the consumer, you can create an account on the Autism Dietitian FullScript and search for the supplement under “Catalog”.