Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often present with selective eating behaviors and dietary imbalances, which contribute to nutritional deficiencies that can adversely impact growth and development. Despite increasing awareness of the role of nutrition in ASD management, existing nutritional interventions frequently fail to accommodate the unique dietary needs of this population. This study aimed to develop tailored nutritional counseling materials for ASD children by adapting the food exchange list framework originally designed for individuals with diabetes. A comprehensive food database was constructed using data from the Korean Diabetes Association, the Korea Rural Development Administration, and related resources, specifically addressing the dietary habits and nutritional deficiencies observed in ASD children. Representative foods were selected, standardized for exchange units, and visually documented through photographs to enhance usability. These elements were integrated into a practical, visually engaging educational brochure, which includes detailed food exchange unit tables, photographic representations of portion sizes, and portion standards to guide caregivers in meal planning. The materials focus on enhancing dietary diversity, correcting common nutrient deficiencies, and fostering balanced eating habits. However, limitations exist in adapting a diabetes-centric framework, which may not fully capture the unique dietary preferences and challenges of ASD children. Nevertheless, the developed materials provide a valuable resource for nutritional education and intervention, supporting the health and development of ASD children. Further research is required to refine these materials and evaluate their effectiveness across diverse settings and populations.

Obesity is a significant global health concern that not only increases metabolic disorders risks but also impacts mental health, particularly affecting women due to hormonal fluctuations and societal pressures. This study investigated anti-obesity and anti-anxiety effects of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) extracts in female C57BL/6 mouse (n = 16, 17 weeks old) fed a high-fat diet (HFD). We compared 2 extracts method: distilled water (LBD, n = 5) and 80% ethanol (LBE, n = 6), administered via oral gavage (200 mg/kg/day) for 6 weeks alongside HFD. Both extract groups showed lower weight increase ratio compared to the control group in experiment period (n = 5) (LBD: 27.74%, LBE: 29.71% vs. Control: 51.88%, p < 0.05). The extracts significantly decreased mesenteric white adipose tissue (mWAT) among WATs examined (mWAT and parametrial white adipose tissue [pWAT]). While both LBD and LBE reduced fatty acid synthase (FAS) mRNA expression in pWAT, only LBD reduced peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and FAS mRNA expression in mWAT. In elevated plus maze behavioral experiments, the LBD group displayed reduced anxiety-like behavior, spending significantly more time and travelling greater distances in the open arms compared to other groups (p < 0.05), independent of brain inflammatory markers. Our findings demonstrate lemon balm extracts simultaneously address both obesity and anxiety-like behaviors in female mice, with extraction solvent-dependent variations in efficacy and mechanism of action. These results suggest potential therapeutic applications for lemon balm as a functional food ingredient, particularly for women experiencing concurrent obesity and anxiety symptoms.

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