Autism is a developmental disorder that affects social interaction and communication skills. Symptoms include repetitive patterns of behavior, a lack of interest in playing with peers, and poor eye contact. The American Dietetic Association reports that the number of children diagnosed with autism is increasing at the rate of 10 to 17 percent each year. Although some children appear to respond to modified diets, research does not validate special diets as effective treatment interventions.
Gluten-Free Diet
Gluten is a protein found in foods that contain wheat, barley and rye. Advocates of a gluten-free diet believe that autistic children suffer from a leaky intestine that causes peptides to enter the bloodstream. Peptides are small protein parts. The peptides cause or increase symptoms of autism by affecting the central nervous system. Gluten-free food items are available at grocery stores, Asian food markets and health food stores. Examples of foods to avoid include flour and cereal products, hydrolyzed animal protein, emulsifiers, malt, vegetable gum and vinegar. When eating in restaurants, select foods without breading, gravies or sauces. Order foods such as broiled or roasted meats and plain vegetables.
Casein-Free Diet
Casein is a milk protein found in foods such as milk, cheese and other dairy products. Casein facilitates the production of mucus in some individuals and can worsen conditions such as asthma, bronchitis and sinusitis. Casein also contains small protein parts called peptides. An autistic child may benefit from a casein-free diet if he is sensitive to peptides and does not process the protein. Consult your doctor and registered dietitian to ensure that your child receives adequate calcium and vitamin D. Read food labels to avoid dairy products.
Evidence
Although some parents report a positive behavioral response from a gluten-free or casein-free diet, research does not validate the effectiveness of special diets. The University of Maryland School of Medicine indicates that a review of studies in 2008 did not reveal evidence that the diets helped autistic children. Additional research studies are being conducted that can help parents to make informed decisions about the effectiveness of special diets.
Precautions
A concern inherent to restrictive diets is the danger of nutritional deficiencies in growing children. Make an appointment with your doctor and a registered dietitian to design a meal plan that ensures your child receives adequate calories and nutrients. Additional considerations are the financial costs and the inconvenience associated with restrictive diets. Following a gluten-free or casein-free diet imposes numerous limitations on the autistic child and other family members.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Autism
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Autism; Treatment
- American Dietetic Association: Autism and Diet
- NCBI; Complementary and Alternative Medicine Treatments for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders; Susan E. Levy, M.D., et al; October 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Autism
- University of Michigan Health System: Healing Foods Pyramid
