Holistic Care
What is Natural Food Diet?
Individuals with ASD may exhibit low tolerance or allergies to certain foods or chemicals. While not a specific cause of autism, these food intolerances or allergies may contribute to behavioral issues. Many parents and professionals have reported significant changes when specific substances are eliminated from the child’s diet.
Individuals on the autism spectrum may have trouble digesting proteins such as gluten. Research in the U.S. and England has found elevated levels of certain peptides in the urine of children with ASD, suggesting the incomplete breakdown of peptides from foods that contain gluten and casein. Gluten is found in wheat, oats and rye, and casein in dairy products. The incomplete breakdown and the excessive absorption of peptides may cause disruption in biochemical and neuroregulatory processes in the brain, affecting brain functions. Until there is more information as to why these proteins are not broken down, the removal of the proteins from the diet is the only way to prevent further neurological and gastrointestinal damage.
It is important not to withdraw gluten/casein food products at once from a child’s diet, as there can be withdrawal symptoms. Parents wishing to pursue a gluten/casein free diet should consult a gastroenterologist or nutritionist, who can help ensure proper nutrition. For information about implementing a gluten/casein free diet, go to www.gfcfdiet.com. Additional information about gluten-free foods can be found at www.celiacsociety.org.
We only recommend natural-unprocessed gluten free diets. A sample of these recipes and menus will be given to parents, upon request.
Our Counselors at the Peace Valley Holistic Center are Naturopathic practitioners, who will work with your doctor or recommend a Defeat Autism Now “D.A.N.” doctor, who is familiar with our therapies.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact:
Peace Valley Holistic Center @ 215-887-9901
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