Many people have turned to dietary interventions in the treatment of autism in children. These diets operate under the assumption that children cannot digest certain proteins or that certain foods create bacteria or toxins in the body that lead to or exacerbate the symptoms of autism. The Gluten Free Casein Free diet is the most widely known diet used for children with autism and has many products available to purchase. The Specific Carbohydrate Diet was initially created for the treatment of irritable bowel disease, but is beginning to be used in children with autism. Nutritional or vitamin supplements are also reported to be useful in treating autism.
Gluten Free Casein Free Diet
The Gluten Free Casein Free diet operates under the premise that some children with autism cannot digest the proteins gluten and casein, which then leads to the behavioral symptoms of the disorder. Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley and rye, while casein is the protein in dairy products. When these proteins cannot be digested, they can travel through the blood and into the brain, interfering with proper brain functioning. This is thought to lead to the behaviors seen in autism, such as difficulties with social interaction. This diet gradually eliminates these foods from a child's diet and replaces them with alternatives, such as soy products or nutritional supplements. As noted by the Autism Speaks organization, there is no research indicating the efficacy of this diet, but there have been many anecdotal reports from parents that they see improvements in behavior and overall progress.
Specific Carbohydrate Diet
According to its website, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet believes that bacteria in the digestive system are linked to problems in gastrointestinal functioning and neurological issues, which can lead to autism. The premise is that certain food sugars and starches nourish the bacteria, causing them to multiply. By eliminating foods that contain these sugars and starches, the bacteria can be eliminated and digestive functioning normalized. This is thought to lead to reduced symptoms of autism. The diet suggests eliminating the consumption of grains, starchy vegetables like potatoes, canned or processed foods, flour, sugar and milk products. Little research is available on this diet's efficacy in the autism population, however.
Nutritional Supplements
Another dietary means of treating the symptoms of autism is to supplement a child's diet with vitamins and minerals. The National Institute of Mental Health indicates that vitamin B6, taken with magnesium, is helpful in autism. Although research is not conclusive, some children do respond well to this form of supplementation.
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