The causes of autism are broadly defined as both genetic and environmental, but so many individual differences and genetic mutations exist that a narrower definition is elusive. With such diverse possibilities, different theories and alternative treatments abound. As of July 2011, the potential relationship of peptides to autism is a working theory currently being studied, one that's supported by family and professional observations. Consult your physician before using any alternative treatments for autism, or if you have questions about peptides and autism.
Definition of Peptide
The proteins you eat are made from long chains of molecules called amino acids. Peptides are simply shorter chains of amino acids. If the chain has 50 or fewer amino acids, it's a peptide. If it contains 50 to 100 it's a polypeptide and when there are more than 100 amino acids linked together, it is a protein.
Peptide Sensitivity
Celiac disease is not related to autism, but the condition describes the same peptide sensitivity that you, or your child, might have if you've been diagnosed with autism. Celiac disease is a genetics-based condition in which the small intestine is damaged from proteins found in gluten. Under normal conditions, as protein is digested, only single amino acids are absorbed. In celiac disease, peptides from gluten are able to enter the system, where they are toxic and create intestinal inflammation.
Peptides and Autism
Some children diagnosed with autism have gastrointestinal problems such as chronic constipation, abdominal pain or bloating, reflux and diarrhea. This led to a theory that they may not have the enzymes needed to properly digest the proteins found in gluten and casein. Without the proper enzymes, peptides are not broken down and they are absorbed into the bloodstream. When these peptides reach the brain, they bind to opioid receptors, blocking the natural peptides and interfering with normal functioning. This interruption may cause some of the behaviors associated with autism.
Reducing Dietary Peptides
While celiac disease is a well-documented genetic problem, scientific evidence does not yet exist to prove the connection between peptides and autism. However, a diet that removes all gluten and casein, called the GFCF diet, is one of the most commonly implemented alternative treatments for children on the autism spectrum. A survey conducted by the Interactive Autism Network reports that 19 percent of the parents using the diet observed a "very high" level of improvement and 27 percent saw "high" improvement. However, the report did not provide information about the specific types of improvements.
Expert Recommendation
In January 2010, a multidisciplinary group of physicians reviewed the medical literature about gastrointestinal problems in children with autism. They concluded that evidence for prevalence and treatment did not yet exist, but there was enough information to issue an expert statement. Their recommendation, published in "Pediatrics," states that gastrointestinal conditions are commonly reported in people with autism spectrum disorders and may result in behavioral changes or problem behaviors. Health care providers were encouraged to fully evaluate related symptoms.
References
- Peptide Guide: The Peptide Bond
- University of Florida: How Does Gluten and Casein Relate to the Problem of Autism?
- Interactive Autism Network: IAN Research Findings: Special Diets; Nov. 2008
- "Pediatrics"; Evaluation, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Gastrointestinal Disorders in Individuals With ASDs: A Consensus Report; Timothy Buie, MD, et al.; Jan. 2010
- GFCF Diet: The GFCF Diet Intervention: Autism Diet
