The GFCF Diet for Kids

The gluten-free and casein-free diet, or GFCF diet is used for children who suffer from autism, celiac disease and food allergies. Gluten is a protein found primarily in wheat, barley and rye. Casein is a protein found in milk products, such as cheese, yogurt and sour cream. If you are considering a GFCF diet for your child, examine some of the challenges, benefits and foods associated with a restricted diet.

Benefits for Children

If your child suffers from celiac disease, the immune system damages the small intestine when gluten is consumed. Treatment with a lifelong gluten-free diet permits the small intestine to heal and absorb nutrients. A GFCF diet may also help to relieve symptoms for children who experience food allergies, such as an allergy to milk protein. Anecdotal reports from parents indicate that some autistic children may benefit from a GFCF diet. MayoClinic.com reports that evidence does not confirm that restrictive diets treat the symptoms of autism.

GFCF Food Options

The GFCF.com site recommends that parents initiate a GFCF diet by eliminating sources of gluten first. Fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, eggs, beef and poultry are nutritious, GFCF food choices. Your grocery and health food stores offer a variety of gluten-free foods. Melanie V. Connolly, a registered dietitian, recommends designating a separate toaster and colander for preparing gluten-free breads and pasta.

Casein-Free Food Options

Eliminate sources of casein from your child's diet by avoiding foods such as margarine, butter, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, sour cream, cow's milk and goat's milk. Replace these foods with alternative dairy products. Examples of alternative dairy products are almond milk, soy milk, rice milk and non-dairy cheeses. GFCF.com recommends eliminating casein after gluten-free foods have been added to the diet.

Challenges for Families

Several variables contribute to the success of a restricted regimen such as the GFCF diet, according to Connolly. The variables include periodic reevaluation of the diet, regularly scheduled follow-ups with nutritional experts and up-to-date education for parents and other adults responsible for implementing the diet. Grocery shopping requires reading labels carefully as well as an increased expenditure of time and money. Although the challenges appear intimidating, planning ahead for shopping, cooking and eating out eventually become routines that simplify the GFCF lifestyle for your family.