Expert Selection and Clinical Map
What to look for when seeking expert support for neurodivergent individuals, and dietitian/clinical profiles focused on Turkey.
Choosing the Right Expert
The goal of experts practicing neuro-affirming approaches is not to "eliminate ADHD through diet," but to adapt nutrition to the way the brain works.
A good dietitian is not someone who hands out a list of prohibitions, but someone who identifies safe foods, supports executive functions, reduces the family's kitchen stress, and when necessary, collaborates with disciplines like ergotherapy and psychiatry.
Red flags: Making miraculous promises, marketing IgG 'intolerance' tests, selling a single type of strict elimination protocol to every patient, and applying broad lifelong prohibitions.
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Clinical Approaches in Turkey
In Turkey, the designation of 'ADHD/AuDHD specialist' is rare among dietitians in official profiles. Services are usually offered under headings like 'Nutrition in Autism and Neurological Diseases,' 'Functional Medicine Dietetics,' or 'Ergotherapy and Nutrition.'
Especially in large cities, centers where functional medicine dietitians and occupational therapists (sensory integration) work coordinately are increasing. At these centers, the individual's sensory profile is established, and selective eating behaviors are managed through gradual exposure (sensory introduction).
An example of an expert who directly produces content in this field and adopts a specially AuDHD/ADHD-focused approach is Dyt. Seda Doyan (@audhddiyetisyeni).
When seeking support, resources from the Ministry of Family and Social Services (otizm.gov.tr) or guidance services from NGOs (such as Tohum Autism Foundation) can also be utilized.