The role of diet in treating autism is an area of ongoing research. Anecdotal evidence supports the use of a gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet to treat autism but scientific research has not confirmed its ability to treat the condition. In any case, autistic children may still benefit from nutrition therapy because they often exhibit behaviors that interfere with nutritious dietary practices.
Autism
According to the American Dietetic Association (ADA), autism is a developmental and neurological disorder that affects brain function. Autism can cause abnormal social interaction and communication skills like delayed talking, lack of interaction with other children and poor eye contact. The causes of autism are unknown and there is no cure. Treatments for autism include behavioral and communication therapies, education and prescription medications. Some people believe that a gluten-free, casein-free diet can improve autism symptoms but as of 2010, this has not been scientifically substantiated.
GFCF Diet
A gluten-free, casein-free diet eliminates the proteins gluten and casein. According to Autism Speaks, the theory behind a GFCF diet is that gluten and casein are absorbed differently in autistics than other people and act like false-opiates in the brain and central nervous system. Opiates are drugs that resemble natural brain chemicals and affect emotions, behavior, metabolic processes and physical sensations.
According to the ADA, gluten is in wheat, barley and rye. A gluten-free diet eliminates wheat, oats, rye, barley, millet, kamut and spelt. Products that may contain gluten are also restricted like breads, pastas, cereals, cookies and crackers, desserts and baked goods, vinegars, sauces, soups, artificial colorings and flavorings, spices, food starches and certain candies. Casein is in dairy products. A casein-free diet eliminates milk, butter, cheese, sour cream, yogurt, ice cream and some margarines.
Research
In a recent, unpublished study by the University of Rochester, the largest autism research center in the U.S., researchers found that a GFCF diet had no effect on autism. The study included 22 autistic children and found no significant changes in social language or interaction associated with a GFCF diet. Researchers noted that the number of participants in the study was small so results may be due to chance. Dr. Susan Hyman, a pediatric professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center and the study's primary researcher, says that more research is needed about the role of diet in treating autism.
Vitamins
The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) says that vitamin C and B6 supplements may help autistic children but more research is needed. Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin found in citrus fruits, berries, melon, tomatoes, peppers and leafy green vegetables. Vitamin B6 is primarily found in fortified cereals, beans, meat, poultry and fish. The UMMC recommends consulting a physician before giving supplements to children. A healthy diet that includes a variety of foods can generally meet the requirements for vitamins without the need for supplements.
Dietary Considerations
According to the ADA, behavior problems associated with autism can affect overall diet and nutrition. Autistic children may be constipated or have strong food dislikes and be extremely sensitive to the taste, smell, color and texture of certain foods. They may also have difficulty focusing and eating an entire meal, which can prevent them from eating enough. Prescription medications can also change appetite.
Constipation can be alleviated by encouraging high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains and making sure that children drink enough water during the day. The ADA also recommends working with a registered dietitian to identify nutritional risks that may affect an autistic child and create a nutritious diet plan to support overall health and optimal growth and development.
