In individuals with dysfunctional digestive and immune systems, inflammation occurs in the gut, resulting in Leaky gut syndrome (LGS).  LGS allows the absorption of maldigested food and toxic substances to enter the blood stream.  Improperly digested gluten and casein result in the production of the opiate compounds gluten-exorphine (also called gluteomorphine or gliadorphine) and casomorphine.  These substances are able to cross the blood-brain barrier, attaching to opiate receptors in the brain.  This results in many neurological symptoms of autism as well as a drug-like addiction to casein and gluten containing foods.   

 

Common improvements seen from a GFCF diet include:

• better ability to focus
• improved language
• eye contact
• improved sleep
• reduced aggression, improved behaviour
• easier toilet training
• reduction in eczema and other skin rashes
• improved digestion (bowel habits, digestive pain etc.)

 

Often touted as the autism diet, it is in truth only one piece of the dietary picture, and hence it is not a solution on it’s own.  It is an important early step.