Advocates of a gluten-free diet to treat the symptoms of autism contend that some individuals demonstrate a positive response to the restricted diet. Research that appeared in the December 2009 publication of "Annals of Clinical Psychiatry" reported evidence of a gut-brain connection in autism. However, the results from other studies have been contradictory. Ongoing research continues in order to scientifically assess the effects of a gluten-free diet on autism.
Theory Behind the Gluten-Free Diet
Gluten is a protein found in food items containing wheat, rye and barley. Individuals who suffer from celiac disease and other food sensitivities benefit from a gluten-free diet. Supporters of a gluten-free diet believe that autistic children have a "leaky gut" that permits small pieces of protein called peptides, to enter the bloodstream. The peptides damage the central nervous system and cause or worsen the symptoms of autism. According to the American Dietetic Association, controlled research studies fail to confirm the diet's rationale.
Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism is designated as a spectrum disorder because of the significant variability in how autism affects people. The autism spectrum disorders are pervasive developmental disorders that share similar symptoms. Although all individuals on the autistic spectrum demonstrate problems with social skills, communication, empathy and flexible behavior, the intensity and frequency of problematic behavior vary from person to person. Mild autism refers to Asperger's Syndrome and Pervasive Developmental Disorder -- Not Otherwise Specified.
The Gluten-Free Diet
Initiating a gluten-free diet requires a commitment from the family. Planning ahead, reading food labels and careful shopping are eventually interwoven into the fabric of the family's daily life. Foods to avoid include bread, pasta, cereal, cookies, crackers, seasonings and candy. Replace these foods with gluten-free choices such as beef, pork, poultry, seafood, eggs, apples, oranges, bananas, tomatoes, potatoes, onions, lettuce and cabbage. Most fresh fruits and vegetables are part of gluten-free diet plan. Grocery and health food stores feature gluten-free food items.
Considerations
Reports from MayoClinic.com and University of Maryland Medical Center do not validate the effectiveness of a gluten-free diet to treat autism. Limited positive effects were reported in a study published in the April 2010 issue of "Nutritional Neuroscience." Additional research continues to address unanswered questions.Some parents report that a gluten-free diet diminishes the symptoms of autism. If you are considering a gluten-free diet for your child, consult your doctor and a registered dietitian to ensure adequate nutrition for your child and family.
References
- Helpguide.org: Autism Spectrum Disorders
- "Annals of Clinical Psychiatry"; The Possibility and Probability of a Gut-to-Brain Connection in Autism; K.L. Reichelt, et al.; December 2009
- American Dietetic Association: Autism and Diet
- Abbott Nutrition Health Institute.org;Special Diets; Melanie Connolly, MSc, RD, LDN, CNSD; 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Autism
- GFCF.com: The Gluten-Free and Casein-Free (GFCF) Diet
