The effects of gluten and casein on autistic children are still being debated and discussed, as with most of the issues surrounding this highly controversial issue, but many tests and individual testimonials have claimed and proven that the substances produced by these proteins can indeed by hazardous to children with autism. Although not all test results were positive, a significant number of these studies conclude that there is at least a connection between gluten and casein and autism. At the very least, elimination of gluten and casein in an autistic children's diet can produce a number of positive improvements in their motor, social, and cognitive skills.



An interested study done regarding this subject was conducted by the University of Western Ontario in Canada. In this study, test rats were given substances with gluten and casein; later, the researchers found that the rat's brains had inflamed processes, a condition similar to the brains of autistic children. This validates the claim that gluten and casein could have adverse effects on the body, especially autistic children with their limited bodily functions.

Those who are propagating the gluten-free and casein-free diet say that these proteins can be hazardous because they can produce chemicals that are potentially hazardous to the body. The risk would have been eliminated if their digestive system is working properly. However, it isn't'as the leaky gut symptom of autistic children can prove. When these proteins are not digested properly, they become gluteomorphines. This is a protein by-product, or a peptide, and it has drug-like effects. Experts claim, including the medical researcher Kalle Reichelt, that this peptide can produce opioid-like effects, which blocks the pain receptors of the body and hinder their cognitive, motor, and linguistic skills, as well as their behavior and concentration.

So when an autistic child is given a gluten and casein free diet, the opposite holds true. Their symptoms become less evident. They become more socially adept (as compared to their previous state) and their cognitive and motor skills are vastly improved. They can also concentrate more, lessening the occurrence of their repetitive actions.

Of course, parents of autistic children would wonder if removing wheat, rye, and milk products (the source of gluten and casein) in their child's diet could cause more harm than good. Also, wouldn't it be difficult to completely remove these food items, considering how wheat and milk products are common in most children's meals? Studies did show that children without gluten and casein receive less calcium and copper. However, a proper diet could still provide an autistic child with all the nutrition he or she deserves. Giving a child on a gluten- and casein-free diet food supplements can be beneficial, in order to replace the vitamins and nutrients that could have been acquires through wheat, milk, and other similar products. The effects of a gluten- and casein-free diet would not immediately occur. Others also say that it may not work for some. Nonetheless, the encouraging results from these studies prove that a gluten- and casein-free diet definitely worth the try.