How Nutrition Transformed Our Journey with Trisomy 21 & Autism
The Power of Nutrition as Medicine
When it comes to navigating the challenges of Trisomy 21 and Autism, nutrition has been our most powerful ally. The moment I learned I was pregnant, I focused on what went into my body—and later, what went into Tommy’s. Our approach is rooted in instinct, culture, science, and faith, and I am excited to share our journey.
Growing up in Panama, I was raised in a home where healthy eating was second nature. When I moved to the USA, I was surprised by the lack of emphasis on nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood. Determined to take matters into my own hands, I developed a prenatal nutrition plan for Tommy that included high-antioxidant foods and even Latin dance—because movement stimulates the vestibular system in utero.
Antioxidants & Down Syndrome: A Controversial Yet Promising Approach
Sixteen years ago, the idea of antioxidants for Down syndrome was met with skepticism. However, after discovering a study showing that pomegranate could improve fetal heart health, I decided to incorporate it into my diet because of its high antioxidant content. Since then, nutrition has been the foundation of Tommy’s health—and the results speak for themselves. Tommy remained unaffected when our entire family caught a virus earlier this year. Even when he contracted COVID, his symptoms were so mild we initially thought it was just a three-day cold—and we didn’t realize it until I got sick with it. And this happened years after the pandemic began.
Our Anti-Inflammatory Diet for Trisomy 21 and Autism
Individuals with Trisomy 21 and Autism experience chronic inflammation, making an anti-inflammatory diet essential. Here’s how we maintain Tommy’s health:
1. 80% Dairy-Free
We opt for rice milk and coconut milk. Occasionally, we use organic, grass-fed whole milk or goat milk, which are less inflammatory due to their higher omega-3 content and minimal processing.
2. Gluten-Free for Gut Health
Although Tommy can now tolerate gluten, we avoid it due to harmful chemicals like glyphosate, commonly found in processed wheat. (Glyphosate disrupts gut bacteria and contributes to inflammation—source in comments!)
3. Organic Fruits & Vegetables
We prioritize organic produce to reduce exposure to toxins like glyphosate. Fruits like blueberries and avocados are staples for their high antioxidant content, supporting brain health and immune function.
4. Minimal Packaged Foods
Even with organic brands, we read labels carefully, choosing foods high in fiber and low in added sugars.
5. Grass-Fed, Wild-Caught, and Organic Proteins
Tommy eats clean protein sources like pasture-raised meats, organic eggs, and wild-caught fish. Processed meats are avoided due to their link to chronic diseases and parasites.
6. Whole Grains, Limited and Organic
We include lentils, beans, rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and pigeon peas, but in moderation. Corn is avoided due to its inflammatory effects. Many grains contain glyphosate, which triggers zonulin, an inflammatory protein that disrupts gut health. To counteract this, we choose organic grains whenever possible.
Tommy has never eaten foods from the Standard American Diet (SAD). No Cheetos, Doritos, Kellogg’s cereals, Dr. Pepper, or Coke. To my convenience, he doesn’t even crave candies or cookies!
Nutrition as a Key to Longevity and Quality of Life
Inflammation triggers oxidative stress, already elevated in individuals with Down syndrome and Autism. By maintaining a high-density nutritional and anti-inflammatory diet, we are not just feeding Tommy—we are supporting his cellular health and cognitive function.
For us, food is medicine—and it’s empowering to see Tommy thrive because of it. Let’s continue to advocate for nutrition as the foundation of wellness for individuals with Trisomy 21 and Autism, and for everyone!
