Tuesday, January 27, 2015

Workout and weight loss on wheels- with autism

Typically, it is hard for a person with autism to have the willpower to eat and exercise unless someone completely controls the activities. In terms of eating, this means locking kitchen drawers, only buying healthy foods, packing lunches, preparing what is eaten for meals at home, and alerting other professionals (teacher) that unhealthy foods can't be used as rewards. It is also suggested that the person workout on a daily basis for at least 2 hours. It may be useful to work with a nutritionist who can create a weeks worth of healthy meals rather than counting calories for each food eaten. The food goal is to keep choices simple and have smaller portions. Routine is important so after awhile the person would get accustomed to eating only healthy foods even if offered other types. Be careful not to leave junk food around the house. Autistic children do not have many areas where they find pleasure (such as interacting with people, watching TV, etc.), so food associated with comfort. Exercise is important but more meaningful is to spend the time exercising together. Find something that is enjoyable besides food like doing puzzles.

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