Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. Casein is a protein found in milk and milk products. Children with celiac disease or a wheat allergy or intolerance need to follow a gluten-free diet. Children with an allergy or intolerance to casein must adhere to a diet free of casein protein. Some parents choose to combine the gluten-free and casein-free diets for a holistic approach to treating autism, states the University of Texas. Gluten and casein are found in many processed foods. Planning a GFCF diet can be tricky; however, many foods are naturally free of these proteins.
Meats
Unprocessed meats are gluten and casein-free. Choose fresh, plain cuts of poultry, beef, pork or fish. Avoid meats that have been seasoned, basted, or injected with flavorings or spices as these may contain gluten or casein additives. Use caution with processed meats like hot dogs, meat slices, bratwurst, sausages or snack meats as these may also contain gluten or casein additives. Prepared hamburger or chicken patties, as well as breaded meats like chicken nuggets, may also contain these proteins. Consider purchasing meats and seasoning them with GFCF seasonings at home to avoid gluten or casein exposure.
Vegetables and Fruits
Fresh produce is naturally gluten and casein free. You may choose to incorporate all kinds of fresh fruits and vegetables into your child's diet. Seasonal fruits, such as strawberries, blueberries and peaches add variety. Choose plain, fresh, frozen or canned vegetables or fruits. Avoid seasoned or spiced produce selections as these may contain gluten or casein additives in the seasoning. Reading product labels will help you ensure the processed produce you choose is gluten and casein free. The University of Virginia Health System suggests working with a nutritionist to ensure your child eats a balanced amount of fruits and vegetables.
Grains
Gluten-containing grains, like wheat, are used to make most commercial breads, pastas and snacks. Avoiding these grains means your child can no longer consume products made from wheat, barley or rye. Instead, substitute gluten-free grains, like rice, flax, buckwheat, tapioca. Flour from these grains can be used for home baking. Gluten-free, casein-free products like bread, pasta, crackers and cookies are commercially available in health food and specialty stores, as well.
Proteins
In addition to meat, other protein sources can be found gluten and casein free. Natural peanut butter and plain nuts like peanuts, pistachios and almonds are safe to eat on this diet. Legumes and beans, like black beans, lentils, split peas and chickpeas, add fiber and protein and are versatile. Consider adding beans to soups, stews or cooked as a side dish with GFCF seasonings of your choice to add variety to this diet.
