lengthy but extremely thorough explanation of excitotoxicity and Autism. This is heavily referenced and should be read by all! A good discussion on how immune stimulation in the developing brain contributes to ASD...hint: vaccines.
Only abstract available here, but sugar in the form of sucrose found to lower cortisol. Increased activity in the hippocampus was evident in the sucrose arm of this study. Both of these activities will lead to stress induced food addictions--particularly of sugar. Sugar is highly addictive and should be especially avoided in children. Of note, this study followed the cortisol levels through saliva.