Many parents of children with autism and associated spectrum disorders have been investigating the effects of gluten and casein free diets for their children. Some parents report that dairy products may cause behavior problems in children with autism who have a sensitivity to casein. Parents also report that children with autism experience an improvement in symptoms following removal of casein which is a protein in cow's milk and cow's milk product. Parents who put their children on a casein-free diet are committed to eliminate all dairy products from their child's diet. The diet is not easy for the parents or for the child. The diet must be strict. The parent must inform schools, relatives and neighbors that the child is on a special diet. The elimination of casein in a child's diet is difficult to implement but many parents report results in the child's behavior including changes in eye contact, social skills and language development.

Americans have been raised to believe that cow's milk is necessary for a child's health. However, that are lots of healthy children who thrive without cow's milk. Eliminating milk/dairy products from a child's diet is a concern for many parents. What does the child do for calcium? Children between the ages of one and ten require approximately 800-1000 mg of calcium a day. If a child, who is not eating dairy products, drinks three 8-ounce glasses of fortified rice, soy or potato milk per day, he would meet that requirement. There are also many milk substitutes on the market. A parent can check for varieties that are calcium-enriched. Soy milk contains protein and is a good option for some, although many children, who cannot tolerate dairy products are may also be intolerant of soy.

A doctor who specializes in autism or an experienced dietitian can help guide parents of children who have autism. Finding a physician who understands autism and food sensitivities is the key!

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