One opinion of a gluten–free (breads and cereals)/casein–free (milk products) diet for kiddos on the spectrum is based on a belief that children with autism may have an allergy, or high sensitivity to foods containing gluten and/or casein. By eliminating gluten and casein from their diet, the benefits could be seen in the symptoms and behaviors of autism.
Another opinion of the GFCF diet is based on the gut/brain connection, and the bacteria in the gut affecting the brain to function “normally”.
As with all things Autism related, there are A LOT of opinions on this topic.
We turned to the professionals, so we went to our Developmental Pediatrician. We were told that there is not enough proof of any benefits of a GFCF diet. However, after further research and learning a little about biomedicine, we decided to see for ourselves.
Our lil man is very restricted on his food tolerances so we are working on one thing at a time. We are 90% dairy free and when lil man eats dairy, he almost immediately gets a diaper rash. If we had made more than one change at a time, we could not see how his body reacts. I feel this is key to making the changes we need to see both positive and negative reactions.
Now we are working on eliminating gluten from his diet. In order to do that, we need to find gluten free alternatives to his favorite foods. For example, currently we are testing a new recipe for a teddy graham alternative.
I believe that it never hurts to try alternatives that could help our kiddos! I recommend forming your own opinion. Each child is different and will have a different response.
NOTE: Before starting any diet, supplement, etc., first consult your doctor.
