Many parents of autistic children find that a gluten and casein free diet helps alleviate many of the symptoms associated with the disorder. Other children may be allergic to or intolerant of these substances, requiring them to be eliminated from the diet. According to gfmeals.com, gluten is found in wheat, rye and barley and casein is present in milk and cheese. Avoiding foods that contain these proteins is very important when implementing a gluten and casein free diet. Talk to your child's doctor before starting any new diet with her to be sure that you are doing so in a healthy way.
Step 1
Eliminate foods that contain gluten. Since gluten is present in items that are made from wheat, rye and barley, you won't be able to give your child most kinds of bread, cereal, flour tortillas, crackers and baked goods.
Step 2
Avoid milk and cheese. These two foods contain casein, which needs to be cut out of your child's diet when you are trying to go gluten and casein free. You will also have to eliminate butter, yogurt and ice cream.
Step 3
Cook with substitutes. You can find gluten and casein free foods at health food stores or at some traditional supermarkets. Not all foods that are gluten free will necessarily be casein free and vice versa, so read labels carefully to ensure that you are preparing foods that are safe for your child. Almond milk and rice milk are good alternatives to cow's milk and many gluten free bread products are available -- just be sure they don't contain milk.
Step 4
Incorporate protein. Many sources of protein are naturally gluten and casein free so cooking them for your child is safe. Eggs and plain meats, such as chicken, fish and beef are good choices. Avoid sauces and breading since many of them contain unsafe ingredients. In addition, avoid cold cuts, hot dogs and smoked meats.
Step 5
Give your child lots of fruits and vegetables. Produce is free of gluten and casein and is an important part of a healthy and balanced diet. Choose fresh fruits and vegetables as often as possible and when purchasing frozen or canned ones check the labels carefully. Some prepared fruits, pie fillings and breaded vegetables will contain gluten and/or casein and should not be given to your child.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are trying this diet for your autistic child, be sure to work closely with his doctors and therapists so that you can monitor his progress and make adjustments as necessary.
Things You'll Need
- Gluten free foods
- Casein free foods
