Celiac And Aspergers?

[anna34]

I've been reading that some children have had success with the gluten-free diet helping with Asperger's syndrome. I'd be interested in hearing of any stories that people might be willing to share. Thanks.

[maximoo]

There are many differing reports/studies out there. Some ppl swear a gluten-free diet greatly improved the symptoms of autism/asperger's while others found no difference at all. However there are studies that show there is a positive correlation btwn celiac & asd/as. But then again everyone is different. So-o-o the only thing to do is to have the afflicted person try the gluten-free diet. There's no harm in trying. when going gluten-free be aware of cross contamination. there is alot to learn. good luck

[mommida]

I have always heard it is a gluten free, Casein free diet in this situation. Certain individuals respond to the opiate like effect of gluten and casein protein.

I also think allergy testing should be done for Aspergers because of a *higher* rate of food allergies/intolerance/sensitivity. (I'm way too tired to find supporting articles right now)

[Ollie's Mom]

I have Asperger's.

For me, the gluten free diet was a trial to see if gluten was somehow related to my chronic migraines, D, gas, nausea, vomiting, skin issues, etc etc. Eliminating gluten eliminated all of those things for me and, oddly enough, I found it helped me with some of my sensory issues / anxiety. (I was unaware of a link between AS and celiac disease at this point)

A gluten free diet was not a "cure" for my autism, but it did help to relieve / lessen some of the issues I was having. I can better tolerate flickering lights and loud noises, for example, but I am still extremely sensitive to them. I am less anxious when trying to have a conversation with people (especially two or more other people), but I still have difficulty figuring out what to say, and when to say it. And what expression I should have on my face when I do say it.

I think there's this idea that a gluten-free/CF diet can "cure" or "eliminate" autism, but in my experience that is not the case. I certainly can't HURT, and if it helps lessen the more problematic issues (like sensory overload or anxiety) then it is 100% worthwhile.

My I ask, do you know someone with Asperger's?