Gluten Free Diet May Not Benefit Children With Autism

Results of a new study find that following a certain type of diet may not improve bowel function in children diagnosed with autism.

Popular belief is that autistic children fed a diet free of wheat and milk protein will improve overall digestion, but this does not appear to be the case at all.

Difficulties digesting gluten can lead to cramping and and overall upset stomach, and in autistic children who have trouble communicating, this can be very difficult to manage.

“It would have been wonderful for children with autism and their families if we found that the gluten-free, casein-free diet could really help, but this small study didn’t show significant benefits,” said lead author Dr. Susan Hyman of the University of Rochester in New York.

Autism is becoming more prevalent in America and now effects one in every 150 children living in the country.

The researchers analyzed the diet after claims were made by parents of autistic children claiming its benefits.

They recruited 14 children between the ages of two and five, and after four weeks of the strict diet, began substituting in snacks with either gluten or casein.

“The removal of gluten and casein from the diet of a controlled group of young children with autism, all of whom were screened for celiac disease … did not demonstrate a change in sleep habits, bowel habits, activity or core symptoms of autism,” Hyman added.

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