How Helpful Is The GFCF Diet For Autism

The gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet was initially developed for people with an immune reaction to gluten in the diet known as gluten-sensitive enteropathy (celiac disease). Gluten is a protein commonly found in whet products such as bread, bakery goods and other food products. Casein is also a protein that is commonly found in dairy products and it can also cause severe reactions in some individuals. The GFCF diet can help avoid these health problems when used appropriately.

The theory behind the GFCF diet’s use in ASD is that if an individual is having GI (Glycemic Index) responses to gluten and casein, it can cause inflammation which damages the lining of the intestinal walls, leading to absorption of partially digested molecules.

Moreover, the inflammation damaged intestines cause can interfere with normal functioning of the brain causing problems such as mental difficulties, mood abnormalities, and anxiety and perhaps worsen the symptoms of autism. Despite being quite popular among the autism community, there’s minimal proof that the GFCF diet actually improves ASD-related behaviors.

Studies are few but promising

A research review published in 2009 concluded that the evidence available was not enough to support a gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet for ASD, but some promising findings have emerged lately. A small Danish study conducted in 2010 of kids aged between 4 and 11 years, some children showed improvements after 8 months, 1 year and 2 years on a GFCF diet. Moreover, Penn State researchers conducted a research where they surveyed the parents of 400 children with autism and found convincing evidence that a gluten-free, casein-free diet improved various symptoms such as temper tantrums, speech skills, hyperactivity, problems with eye contact and physical ailments including seizures and skin rashes for some groups of children. The most improvement was observed in children who had a history of digestive issues or food allergies such as diarrhea and chronic constipation, or followed the GFCF diet for at least 6 months.

No one really knows how the diet helps

One of the most popular theories is that autistic kids are unable to break down gluten and casein fully and have leaky guts and hence increased intestinal permeability. Therefore, partially digested or undigested protein molecules leak trough the damaged intestinal walls into the child’s bloodstream. When the molecules reach the brain, they may wreak havoc and lead to significant problems with social skills, speech and behavior.

Is my Autistic Child Allergic to Gluten and Casein?

Another theory suggests that autistic children may simply be in discomfort and pain because of intolerance to casein and gluten. Therefore, when those proteins are eliminated from the diet, children feel and sleep better, tend to get more out of therapies, are more alert and make greater progress.

Will the GFCF diet help All Kids with Autism?

The diet doesn’t work for everyone. A study conducted by Autism Speaks shows that nearly 50% of all children with ASD suffer some kind gastrointestinal disorder. Although it’s possible that casein and gluten trigger the body’s immune response, it is also possible that autism symptoms are aggravated by food allergies and intolerances. Doctors and experts don’t understand why the GFCF diet does not help all autistic kids. Children who have chronic digestive problems or food intolerances and allergies tend to get the biggest benefit from the GFCF diet.

Getting help is Critical

It’s essential to work closely with an expert such as a physician along with a registered dietitian or health practitioner who is well versed in gluten-free, casein-free diets. The health practitioner can assess your kid’s current diet in order to confirm whether they need additional supplements. The doctor will also help you plan snacks and meals. This will help you create a well-planned diet that will not compromise your child’s nutrition, health and growth.

Adopting the GFCF Diet Plan for your Autistic Child can be rather Difficult at first.

Getting rid of casein and gluten basically means eliminating most restaurant and processed food from your diet. Remember, children with autism can be very picky eaters, partly due to sensitivities to certain textures, smells and flavors of food. Many foods that children tend to rely on such as yogurt, cheese, and crackers are not allowed on a strict GFCF diet plan because they are thought to have a significant impact on the child’s brain.

Therefore, many kids may have some withdrawal symptoms when these foods are eliminated from the diet. Parents who’ve had success with this diet suggest removing gluten first and then casein a week or two later. Substitute foods such as gluten-free pasta or casein-free milk can also be introduced gradually. When you first begin the GFCF diet, you might find yourself spending more time preparing food and planning mealtimes. You must also avoid cross-contamination with casein and gluten. For instance, you must avoid using the same toasters, cutting boards or serving spoons.

Patience is key

Some parents may notice changes and improvements very quickly, sometimes within a matter of weeks or even days. However, for others significant improvements can take months or years, and some may not notice any improvements at all. Casein usually clears from the child’s system in 2 to 3 days, but it can take up to 6 months for gluten to clear from the body. Therefore, you should allow reasonable time (at least 6 months) before reassessing your child’s development.

Learn these tips if you care for an autistic child!