Imagine enjoying better behavior, fewer gastrointestinal issues, and improved language skills in your child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) by simply tweaking their diet. According to recent research at Penn State, it’s possible with a gluten-free, casein-free diet! This study is groundbreaking, as it’s the first to use survey data from parents to document the effectiveness of this diet on children with ASD. But that’s not all – the researchers also believe that soy may cause problems for some of these kids.
Gluten and Casein: Understanding the Connection
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, while casein is a protein found in dairy products. For some individuals, especially those with ASD, these proteins can cause adverse reactions, such as gastrointestinal issues and behavioral problems. But why is that? Some experts suggest that gluten and casein-derived peptides cause an immune response in children with ASD. Others propose that these peptides could trigger gastrointestinal symptoms and behavioral problems.
Christine Pennesi, a medical student at Penn State College of Medicine, explains, “Research has shown that children with ASD commonly have gastrointestinal symptoms. Notably, a greater proportion of our study population reported gastrointestinal and allergy symptoms than what is seen in most children.”
The Benefits of a Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet for Children with ASD
In the Penn State study, parents who restricted their children’s diets found numerous improvements in their kids. As a result of the gluten-free, casein-free diet, children experienced:
- Fewer intestinal problems
- Better social behavior
- Improved language skills
- Better eye contact
- Increased engagement
- Longer attention spans
The study, published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience, shows promising results for equipping parents and caregivers of children with ASD with a simple, dietary tool to potentially help alleviate some of the symptoms their kids experience.
To give you a head start on crafting the perfect gluten-free, casein-free diet for your child, consider the following tips.
Tips for a Successful Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet
- Consult a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your child’s diet. Your doctor can provide guidance and help you tailor a diet specifically for your child’s unique needs.
- Educate yourself and your child. Understanding the importance of the diet and its potential benefits can help you both commit to the dietary changes.
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Learn to read food labels carefully. To ensure you are eliminating gluten and casein, become familiar with ingredients to watch out for on food labels and possible triggers.
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Prepare meals at home. Cooking at home allows you to better control your child’s meal ingredients and minimize the risk of contamination.
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Look for gluten-free, casein-free alternatives. Many options are available today in the form of gluten-free breads, pasta, and dairy-free products such as almond milk and coconut yogurts.
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Consider supplements. Your child’s healthcare professional may recommend certain supplements to ensure they are getting proper nutrients.
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Beware of soy. As mentioned earlier, researchers from Penn State believe soy may be problematic for some children with ASD. Discuss the issue of soy in your child’s diet with your healthcare professional.
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Allow for an adjustment period. Dietary changes can be challenging, especially for children. Be patient and understanding as your child acclimates to a gluten-free, casein-free diet.
By implementing a gluten-free, casein-free diet, you may be able to make meaningful strides in your child’s behavior and overall quality of life. Remember always to consult a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes and work together with your child to create a diet that works for them. The end result could be a happier, healthier child better equipped to tackle the unique challenges of ASD.
