The gluten-free and casein-free, GFCF, diet is used for children intolerant of, or allergic to, gluten and casein proteins. Gluten is found in certain grains and casein in milk and dairy products. Children with celiac disease must avoid gluten to prevent intestinal damage. The GFCF diet is also used as a holistic treatment for autism, states Education.com. THE GFCF diet is very restrictive. However, certain foods can safely be incorporated into this diet for easier dietary planning.
Fruits and Vegetables
All fresh fruits and vegetables are naturally gluten- and casein-free. These foods can be a very versatile and nutritious part of your child's diet. Choose unflavored, fresh, frozen or canned fruits and vegetables. Seasoned or prepared produce may contain additives, like spices or seasonings, that contain casein or gluten; reading product labels will help you determine if these additives are present.
Dried fruits may contain additives as well. Some dried fruits, like raisins and dried cranberries are dusted with wheat flour to prevent sticking, states Talk About Curing Autism. Contact product manufacturer to inquire whether wheat or casein ingredients are used on prepared or dried fruits as product labels may not indicate flour as an ingredient.
Grains
Gluten is found in wheat, barley and rye and variations of these grains, such as Durham wheat. Alternate grains can be substituted for gluten-containing grains. Approved grains for the GFCF diet include quinoa, buckwheat, rice, including enriched white rice, brown and wild rice, corn, millet, sorghum and amaranth. Gluten-free grains may be prepared and eaten as a side dish, or flours from these grains used in your own GFCF recipes.
Some grains have the possibility of cross-contamination if processed in a facility that also handles gluten-containing grains, states the University of Virginia Health System. Product labels often state if grains are handled in a facility shared with wheat. However, if in doubt, contact the product manufacturer.
Meat and Eggs
Only fresh, minimally processed meats are safe to consume with the GFCF diet, states Talk About Curing Autism. Choose fresh cuts of meat from your deli department and avoid processed meats and meat products. Smoked, flavored or seasoned meats and meat products, like lunch meat and hot dogs, may contain gluten or casein additives. Avoid breaded meat products, like chicken patties or nuggets as these often contain wheat. Whole, fresh eggs are approved for the GFCF diet as eggs are naturally free of both gluten and casein.
Milk Substitutes
Casein is found in milk from mammals and milk products. All dairy products must be avoided as part of this diet. Milk substitutes may be used that are gluten- and casein-free. Consider almond milk, hemp, potato or coconut or hazelnut milks as a replacement. Choose, plain versus flavored milk alternatives, and ensure the label states the product is gluten- and casein-free.
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