It has been suggested that a gluten-free diet can help to minimize the symptoms of autism in children. Autism is a disorder that is characterized by difficulties with communication, social interaction, and unusual or repetitive behavior. It is thought that some children with autism are unable to break down gluten, and that this undigested protein interferes with brain functioning, leading to symptoms such as attention and speech difficulties, unusual behavior and poor social skills. Gluten is mainly found in wheat products, but it is also present in rye, barley, triticale and oats. Companies in 2011 are producing gluten-free versions of traditional foods, while other foods are naturally gluten-free and can be substituted in a child's diet.
Flour
Flour used in baking naturally contains gluten if processed from wheat. Alternative types of flour, including almond, arrowroot, buckwheat, corn, potato, and rice flour, can be used instead. There are particular companies that produce packaged mixes that are acceptable for use. Bob's Red Mill, Gluten Free Pantry and Pamela's Products produce bread, cake and brownie mixes that are available at grocery stores. Bob's Red Mill also manufactures and sells many alternative types of flour, as noted above. Gluten-free forms of pancake and waffle mix are also available.
Cereal
Some cereals are naturally gluten-free, including Rice Chex. Other companies have created gluten-free versions of popular cereals. Arrowhead Mills produces gluten-free Corn Flakes and Buckwheat Flakes; Barbara's Bakery makes Brown Rice Crisps, which are a gluten-free version of Rice Krispies; and Envirokidz produces a gluten-free form of Frosted Flakes. Bob's Red Mill also manufactures hot cereals mixes made from rice, buckwheat and almonds.
Snacks
Frito Lay makes several gluten-free products, including most Lays potato chips, corn and tortilla chips, and popcorn. Quaker rice cakes are also an acceptable gluten-free snack. Some specialty grocery stores also produce acceptable gluten-free products and carry gluten-free alternatives. Trader Joe's produces Savory Thin Mini Crackers, Rice Chips, Veggie Crisps and Veggie Corn Puffs. Crackers or chips made from rice or corn are acceptable. Acceptable candies that are made without gluten include Skittles, Starbursts, Mike & Ike, and Nerds. Enjoy Life produces many types of gluten-free cookies.
Condiments and Additives
Certain condiments and flavorings may have gluten added to them from subtle sources. For example, many include modified food starch as an ingredient, which is produced from wheat. Caramel flavoring and coloring may contain gluten, depending on the manufacturing process. Other items such as vinegar may be made from wheat as well. Annie's Naturals and other companies produce gluten-free condiments, such as barbeque sauce, salad dressing and marinades. McCormick spices are usually gluten-free; if not, they are clearly labeled. It is important to read labels to ensure that gluten is not included.
Bread and Starches
Bread products made from alternative types of flour can be difficult to find unless you know what to look for. Enjoy Life and Glutino provide gluten-free bread products, including pizza crust, sandwich bread and bagels. Regular pasta must be removed from a gluten-free diet, but there are companies that now produce gluten-free pasta made with alternative products, such as rice or corn. The addition of rice and potatoes to a child's diet can serve as an alternative starch for pasta if the gluten-free forms are not tolerated.
