The Mayo Clinic states that autism is developmental disorder that manifests in early childhood --- usually under the age of 3. Typical symptoms include an inability to communicate and interact with others. There is no cure for autism and no clear, single cause of autism, although genetics and environmental factors have been suspected, according to the Mayo Clinic. There has been some speculation that a gluten-free diet can remedy autism, and many families are pursuing this and other alternative therapies.
Gluten Peptides in Autistic Children
Abnormally high levels of peptides contained in gluten foods have been found in the urine and spinal fluid of autistic children, according to the "Cochrane Database System Review." Thus, following a restricted gluten-free diet is touted as a popular alternative therapy when dealing with autistic spectrum symptoms. However, the Mayo Clinic reports that following such a restrictive diet can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
Conflicting Research
The Mayo Clinic states that there is no evidence that special diets such as a gluten-free diet can effectively treat autism. A study published in the "Cochrane Database System Review" states that although there has been a high rate of use of gluten-free diets for children with autism, evidence to support this diet as an effective tool for treatment is poor. Only two small studies were identified, showing little improvement in the areas of the ability to communicate and interact, social isolation and overall autistic traits. However, a small study reported in 2006 by the "Journal of Autism and Develomental Disorders" states there were parental reports of improvement in autistic children on a gluten-free diet, though results of the study were not statistically significant.
Choosing to Pursue a Gluten-Free Diet
As a parent of an autistic child, you may choose to pursue a gluten-free diet, although research is conflicting and inconclusive at best. This path should only be followed under the direction of your child's doctor. Starches recommended by the Mayo Clinic to be incorporated into a gluten-free diet include amaranth, arrowroot, buckwheat, corn, cornmeal, gluten-free flours, hominy grits, polenta, pure corn tortillas, rice, quinoa and tapioca. A gluten-free diet can also incorporate fresh meats, fish, poultry, fruits, most dairy products, potatoes, rice, vegetables, wines and distilled liquors/ciders/spirits.
Nutritional Concerns on a Gluten-Free Diet
While on a gluten-free diet, vitamin deficiency will be a concern. Therefore, you will need to check with a nutritionist or doctor about getting enough iron, calcium, fiber, riboflavin, niacin and foliate.
References
- The Mayo Clinic: Gluten-free diet
- The Mayo Clinic: Autism treatment: Can special diets help?
- The Mayo Clinic: Autism
- "Cochrane Database System Review:" Gluten- and casein-free diets for autistic spectrum disorder.
- Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders: The gluten-free, casein-free diet in autism
