In a study published Monday in the Journal of Pediatrics, a panel of 28 medical experts released their findings and recommendations on whether diets restricting gluten and casein work to treat autism. They found that evidence does not support the diet as effective as a primary treatment for autism. This was determined after an extensive review of data related to gastrointestinal issues among children with autism.
The panel did not completely discredit the theory. They noted that more research needed to be done to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal problems in children with autism. However, the panel stated that there are risks that these restrictive diets pose. As a result the study recommended more research be done to determine markers for identifying children who the diets could help.
The panel questioned the prevailing view that there are some gastrointestinal issues that are found exclusively in children with autism. The panel notes that the same GI problems that children with autism are facing may be occurring with the same frequency in their typical peers, countering the thought that GI problems occur more frequently in children with autism.
There is no one-size fits all treatment for autism, but with the complexity and scope that is the autism spectrum, it is no wonder that parents are seeking answers that will help their child. There is also this school of thought that thinks that children with autism are also at a greater risk for gastrointestinal problems, this theory has found celebrity endorsements with little science to back it up. I am aware that there are numerous anecdotal reports that the “diet” has proven effective. Many families of children of autism that I represent have found wonderful success from the diet. Nevertheless, this report is one study that should be seriously considered when making thoughtful individual decisions with your physician on how best to address your child’s needs relating to his or her GI issues and generally.
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