The American Dietetic Association reports that evidence does not support the benefits of a gluten-free, casein-free diet for autistic children. However, some parents opt for a GFCF diet to treat the symptoms of autism. If you are a parent considering a GFCF diet, seek recommendations from a nutrition specialist and your doctor.
GFCF Benefits
According to GFCF.com, some autistic children experience problems breaking down the peptides in gluten and casein. The peptides enter the bloodstream by crossing a "leaky" intestinal membrane The peptides cause or increase some of the symptoms observed in autistic children by functioning as an opiate-like substance in the brain. Advocates of the GFCF diet report that some of the negative symptoms associated with autism diminish in response to the dietary restrictions.
Foods to Avoid
Foods that contain gluten include bread, pasta, cereals, cookies, crackers, seasonings and candy. Many grains, such as wheat, oats, rye, barley, millet and durum contain gluten. Non-food items that contain gluten include stickers, toothpaste, lip balms and personal hygiene products. Some of the foods that contain casein are soy cheese, margarine, breast milk, cow's milk and goat's milk. A key to avoiding gluten and casein is learning how to read labels carefully and consistently. Even if a food item is regularly on your grocery shopping list, food manufacturers can change one or more ingredients in a product without notice.
Considerations
Autistic children prefer routines and consistency that are woven into every part of their daily lives. The children look for consistency in the types and textures of foods served at meals. According to Geraldine Dawson, Ph.D., chief science officer for Autism Speaks, in an interview for HealingWell.com, the introduction or elimination of a food causes distress for some children. For example, some autistic children accept only soft foods, or only crunchy foods. Incorporate new foods into your child's meals before starting a GFCF diet.
Precautions for Parents
To ensure a balanced diet for your child, consult with a registered dietitian who has experience helping children with autism and a gastroenterologist. Gastroenterologists specialize in treating the digestive system. A gastroenterologist and a dietitian work together to address some of nutritional concerns related to a GFCF diet. Nutritional concerns include adequate intake of protein, calcium and vitamin D.
References
- American Dietetic Association: Autism and Diet
- "Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Clinics of North America"; Complementary and Alternative Medicine Treatments for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders; Susan E. Levy, et al.; October 2008
- GFCF.com: The Gluten-Free and Casein-Free (GFCF) Diet
- GFCF.com: GFCF Diet and Autism
- "Nutrition in Pediatrics"; C. Duggan, et al.; 2008
- HealingWell.com; Mealtime a Challenge for Some With Autism; Jennifer Thomas
