Questions You Might Ask...
What does gluten and casein mean?
Why do biomedical professionals recommend the gluten-free/casein-free (gfcf) diet for our children on the autism spectrum?
What is a gluten, enzyme, peptide, protein, casein and so many other words that we seem to be hearing for the first time?
What is the opioid excess theory and why do DAN! physicians talk about it?
Terms you need to know:
1. Glutens - proteins, such as the popular grains: wheat, barley, rye and
oats. These grains have derivatives which include hydrolyzed vegetable/plant proteins, textured vegetable proteins, malt, grain starches, grain vinegar, soy sauce, grain alcohol, flavorings and the binders and fillers found in vitamins and medications.
2. Casein - a protein from cow's milk and dairy produce.
3. Enzymes - proteins that catalyze or accelerate chemical reactions.
4. Peptides - ("digestible") the family of short molecules formed from
the linking, in a defined order of various a-amino acids. The link between one amino acid residue and the next is an amide bond and is sometimes referred to as a peptide bond.
5. Proteins - polypeptide molecules. The distinction is that peptides are short and polypeptide proteins are long.
6. Opioid - a chemical substance that has a morphine-like action in the
body. The main use is for pain relief. These agents work by binding to opioid receptors, which are found principally in the central nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract.
The Opioid Excess Theory
This theory suggests that foods are not correctly digested in the body and as a result peptides work their way into the bloodstream. This effects neurotransmission within the brain causing disruption of normal brain activity, thus the symptoms of autism are displayed. The opioids also affect the immune system and hormonal regulation.
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Inflammation in gastrointestinal tract which in turn may allow peptides to get into bloodstream and ultimately the brain.
Why is it important to follow a GFCF Diet?
Many children with autism lack the enzyme to break down proteins found in dairy (casein), wheat, oats, barley and rye (glutens). The incomplete breakdown of these proteins results in a peptide chain that goes from the intestines (the leaky gut syndrome), into the bloodstram, cross the blood-brain barrier and ends up in the brain as casomorphine and glutomorphine. These morphines disrupt the normal transmission of nerve impulses thus affecting the behavior and development of the child.
Here is a handout written by the Autism Resource Institute. It will help you understand why it is important to follow the gfcf diet.
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