Gluten Free/Casein Free Diets for Special Kids

When this article was first written in 2011, some research suggested that diet plays a role in managing autism. Controlled studies since then have not found that a GFCF diet improves autism symptoms; some families still report that it helps. One diet program that has drawn significant interest in this area is diets in which all sources of the proteins gluten and casein are eliminated, known as Gluten-Free/Casein-Free (GFCF) diets. In a 2010 clinical trial, a group of researchers in Norway, Denmark, and the UK conducted a two-stage, 24-month, randomized, and controlled trial to determine the effect of GFCF diets in children with ASD and reported gains in the diet group. That study was single-blind (parents knew which diet their child was on). Later double-blind trials, where families did not know when gluten and casein were given, did not find that the diet changed behavior, sleep or bowel habits (Hyman et al., 2016).

According to the Mayo Clinic, “one popular diet eliminates gluten – a protein found in most grains, including wheat – and casein (a milk protein).” However, the clinic emphasizes that further studies need to be conducted to verify the effectiveness of this treatment method. It is also recommended that you consult an expert before you start a special diet regimen.  (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2011)

Some studies have shown a relationship between autism and gastrointestinal complications. The University of California Davis Health system showed that children with autism born in the 1990s were more likely to have gastrointestinal ailments than their counterparts who were born in the early 1980s. Some families report fewer GI problems on a GFCF diet.

There have also been a number of reports of improvement in both behavior and speech when people with autism underwent prolonged GFCF diets.

Other research studies have shown a link between autism and dysfunction of the immune system affecting how the body breaks down some proteins and combat bacteria and yeasts. These links have not been shown to mean that a special diet treats autism. A child with celiac disease or a diagnosed food allergy or intolerance is a separate case, and a doctor should diagnose it.

Taking a GFCF diet is more than avoiding bread and milk. Apart from grains, gluten is also found in semolina, malt, teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, couscous, malt vinegar, flavorings, hydrolyzed vegetable proteins, and starches. Besides milk and milk products, casein may be found in such non-milk products as hot dogs and soy cheese.

Sources at the time also recommended supplements. Any diet change or supplement for your child is a conversation for your child’s doctor or a registered dietitian. Nothing here is medical advice.  (Mayo Clinic Staff, 2011)

If you are considering placing your child on a GFCF or other special diet, be sure to consult a nutrition professional to ensure the diet you select will be safe for your child and that your child gets the necessary nutrition.

References:

Whiteley, P.; Haracopos, D.; Knivsberg, A.; Reichelt, K.; Parlar, S.; Jacobsen, J.; Seim, A.; Pedersen, L.; Schondel, M. & Shattock, P. The ScanBrit randomized, controlled, single-blind study of a gluten- and casein-free dietary intervention for children with autism spectrum disorders

The Mayo Clinic. Mayo.com. Alternative Medicine. Retrieved March 30, 2011, from http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/autism/DS00348/DSECTION=alternative-medicine

Lisa, s. (1998) Special Diet For Special Kids.

Ken, S.; Lyons, T., Arranga, T. (2010) Cutting-Edge Therapies for Autism 2010-2011.

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