The treatment of autism with dietary interventions has become increasingly popular. Although little research has been conducted on its efficacy, the Specific Carbohydrate Diet, often referred to as the SCD diet, is one diet that is proposed to minimize the symptoms of autism in children. Classic symptoms of autism include difficulties with communication and social interaction as well as repetitive or stereotyped behaviors. The diet proposes that the elimination of certain foods, particularly complex carbohydrates, will minimize bacteria in the digestive system and thus enhance both intestinal and brain functioning.
Features of Autism
Autism is a developmental disorder typically diagnosed in early childhood. Children with autism demonstrate difficulties in social interaction, communication skills, and unusual behaviors. In social interaction, children with autism tend to avoid eye contact, play alone, do not seek to share enjoyment with others, misunderstand emotion, and miss social cues. Difficulties with communication may manifest as a lack of or delay in language skills, but also an unusual use of language, such as having trouble forming sentences and carrying on a conversation. Unusual behaviors may involve strange motions like hand flapping or lining up toys. Particular interests in activities or toys such as cars or trains may also occur.
Function of the SCD Diet
It is thought that a build-up of bacteria in the intestines can lead to not only gastrointestinal difficulties but also interfere with brain functioning in children with autism. Complex carbohydrates, certain starches and sugars, cannot be broken down in the intestines. When they remain undigested and unabsorbed, the bacteria multiplies and then ferments. This additional bacteria can produce toxins that interfere with the functioning of the digestive system. It is thought that by eliminating foods from the diet that increase the production of bacteria, digestive health will improve, as well as brain functioning. Children with autism have been found to have a greater likelihood of gastrointestinal problems. The use of this diet is thought to lead to a reduction of the behavioral symptoms present in autism.
Acceptable and Unacceptable Foods
Although the SCD diet removes many carbohydrates, it only eliminates those specific complex carbohydrates that are not easily digested and lead to an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. Acceptable foods include honey, unprocessed meats, natural cheeses such as Colby and cheddar, fruits, beans, nuts, and fresh or frozen vegetables. Other sugars that are processed such as refined sugar and fructose are not allowed. Also, any processed meats or cheeses, canned vegetables, bread, pasta, potatoes, and yams are not acceptable. Products made with corn, barley, wheat, soy, rye, or oats cannot be consumed. Any dairy products made with milk, as well as cheese high in lactose such as cream cheese and ricotta are not acceptable on this diet, either.
Effectiveness of the Diet
Varying degrees of effectiveness have been reported for this diet in children with autism. The diet's website provides several testimonials from doctors indicating that the diet has proved efficacious for treating the symptoms of autism; however, no published studies have demonstrated this data. According to the Talk About Curing Autism website, the success rate for this diet is thought to be around 80 percent to 85 percent, with significant improvements seen in behavior. There is currently no definitive research on the subject, but reports from parents and physicians suggest that this diet can be beneficial in minimizing the symptoms of autism in some children.
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