It is estimated that one in nine children have some form of autism, according to an article in the Washington Post. Although educational programs are tailored to meet the needs of autistic children, other remedies are being sought. In a 1998 paper by Andrew Wakefield in the British medical journal "Lancet," a connection was made between children with autism and gastrointestinal disorders. This brought on a slew of diets intended to treat autism symptoms
Features
The basis of an autism diet is that you avoid foods that contain gluten or casein. These proteins are eliminated from the diet to not only ease stomach upset, but reduce the severity of autism symptoms. Since the diet is strict, a multivitamin may be needed to ensure the child does not suffer nutritional deficiencies.
Identification
Gluten is found primarily in wheat and grain products. Foods that contain oats, rye, barley, wheat, bulgur and kumut must be avoided. Food flavorings and processed foods may also contain gluten. Some foods to avoid include soy sauce, vinegars, semolina and food starches.
Types
To avoid casein, you must not eat milk or products made with milk. This includes whey, ice cream, yogurt, butter, margarine and cheese. Casein is also used as a food additive and can be found in non-dairy items, such as hot dogs.
Prevention/Solution
Fruits, vegetables and lean proteins are emphasized on a gluten free and casein free diet. You may eat fish, chicken, turkey, rice, potatoes, nuts, buckwheat flour products, beans, soy and eggs. You can also look for lines of food products in supermarkets labeled gluten free. Rice milk, almond milk and potato milk also are allowed for this diet.
Warning
In February of 2010, the paper written by Andrew Wakefield was discredited for not having enough evidence supporting the idea of vaccinations being connected to autism. The link between gastrointestinal disorders and autism documented in the paper was not proved, stated the Washington Post. Before you change your child's diet, speak to your doctor.
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