Dietary intervention for individuals with autism may be an effective way to control symptoms of the disorder. The most commonly used diet eliminates not only gluten but also casein. Gluten and casein are proteins that naturally occur in wheat and dairy products. Scientists think that individuals with autism are unable to digest these proteins properly. Some researchers think that the gluten-free casein-free diet, known as the GFCF diet, can minimize the behavioral symptoms of autism by eliminating these elements from their diet.
Theory Behind the GFCF Diet
According to the Autism Speaks organization, the theory behind the GFCF diet is that removing gluten and casein from a child's diet can lead to improvement in the symptoms of autism. These two proteins are absorbed differently in these children. As noted by the GFCF diet website, some children with autism do not make the enzyme needed to break down gluten and casein. When these proteins are not broken down, they can travel through the body, including to the brain where they interfere with its communication. Unlike an allergic reaction that leads to physical symptoms, a child's reaction to these undigested proteins can lead to behavioral issues including difficulties with attention, poor social skills, language problems and unusual behavior.
Gluten-Free Foods
Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley, oats and rye. Typical foods that contain gluten are cereal, pasta, bread, flour, crackers, pretzels, cookies and some alcohol. It can also be found in some medications, lotions, and vitamins. In more recent years, there has been an expansion in the market for gluten-free products. Companies such as Arrowhead Mills produce gluten-free products that use substitute ingredients. In cooking or baking in the home, rice flour and almond flour can be substituted. Caution should be used in purchasing pre-packaged items, as many contain gluten in the sauce or mix. An additional concern for gluten products is the possibility of cross contamination. It is suggested that separate toasters, baking pans and mixers be used for gluten-free and gluten-containing products.
Casein-Free Foods
Casein is the protein found in dairy products. It is found in all milk extracted from mammals, and all foods that contain dairy have casein in them. Typical foods that contain casein are milk, yogurt, ice cream, cheese, butter, sour cream and some lunchmeats. Additionally, some types of flavoring such as caramel or chocolate flavoring contain casein. As with gluten products, it is important to carefully read labels to ensure they are casein-free. One concern with the removal of casein from the diet is the reduction in the amount of calcium consumed. This can be easily corrected with calcium supplements or multivitamins that contain calcium. For children, it is especially critical to ensure that they receive the needed amounts of calcium for their growth.
Structure of the GFCF Diet
This diet should be gradually introduced to a child over several weeks. It is important for parents to be patient, as many children will resist the replacement of their favorite or preferred foods. It may also be helpful to keep a journal of the child's food intake and behavioral reactions. For this reason, it is important to gradually introduce foods to determine if specific items are more difficult for the child to ingest or lead to any dramatic behavioral changes. The GFCF diet website suggests first removing casein and then gluten, but to do so one meal at a time, gradually phasing it out.
Efficacy of the GFCF Diet
The Talk About Curing Autism website claims that 91 percent of children show improvements in their learning and behavior as a result of this dietary intervention. Behavior changes include improved speech and sleep patterns and fewer repetitive behaviors, (e.g., hand flapping), and better digestive functioning occurs as well. Anecdotal evidence suggests that many parents believe the diet to be helpful. As reported by the Autism Speaks organization, little research has been done on the effectiveness of this diet in eliminating or altering the symptoms of autism; however, many families report that the dietary change do lead to behavioral improvements, including improved sleeping and behavior. More research needs to be done to determine whether this diet brings any lasting change.
