Autism, AD/HD. And Sensory Integration Disorder

Relief found from the 

Gluten Free/Casein-Free/Soy-Free Diet (GFCFSF diet)

By

Brian J. Henninger, ND

As I listen to my patients request for a simpler life I strive to take that frame of mind and integrate an approach to medicine to make my life and my patient’s lives as simple as can be, by focusing on solutions, and opportunities for wellness. With this, my intention is to provide some simple concepts so you can make an informed decision to do your best with the diet. I will strive to stay away from technical jargon so the core concepts are easily understood.

I thought it would be an easy task, when I was asked to write this article regarding one’s diet, especially since my household is gluten and soy-free. In all honesty, any change in one’s life is difficult, but when one sees what change can do, then change becomes that much easier.  I have seen the awakening of so many children when a change in diet is introduced that I am awestruck in the difference.  I see a difference in the child’s awareness, eye contact, and bowel health and the new energy the household gets with such great results. 

Frequently asked questions (FAQ’s):

How long does one need to be on the diet to see results? 

Generally, the diet is done for three months. This is to ensure complete removal of the casein, gluten and soy from the body. For some children, they can be sensitive to smallest amounts of the gluten, casein, or soy. 

Hey Doc, why are you making my child avoid all the food on the planet? 

Well, for some, there is an enzyme called DPPIV peptidase that is missing due to an intestinal health/genetic issue This enzyme helps breakdown the gluten, casein, and soy.  The gluten, casein, and soy may lead to partially digested proteins which then fool the body. The result is poor digestion, and the body mistakes the partially digested proteins for an opiate, which, if enters the bloodstream can cause serious neurological problems. 

What is an opiate and what does it have to do with Autism? 

Opiods are substances that can cause behavior changes in children.  One example is the drug Morphine, which is derived from opium. Opiods are proteins that attach to receptors in the brains and guts and cause behavioral changes, as well as, digestive complaints such as diarrhea, constipation, and bloating. 

What is Leaky gut and how does it harm my child?

“Leaky gut” is common in (75-90%) autism and implies that the intestines are more permeable than the normal. This can play a major role in food sensitivities and in soy, gluten, and casein sensitivity. Soy, gluten, and casein can enter the circulation through this leaky gut and travel to the brain. Thus, by implementing the GFCFSF diet, these proteins will not be absorbed and are unable to cause harm. It has been noted that in many cases that constipation, diarrhea, and self-injurious behavior and “dazed” sensations have improved simply by adhering to the GFCFSF diet. This is true because the opiods from the gluten, casein, and soy do not enter the blood stream thus avoiding exposure to the brain. 

Step 1:  Clean up the diet

Include in your diet:

• • High protein 
• • High fiber diet
• • High good fats 
• • Maximize antioxidants 
• • Increase cruciferous veggies 
• • Garlic 
• • Turmeric
• • Fermented foods
• • Drink plenty of filtered water filtered

Limit: 

• • Processed and preserved foods, organic is best 

Avoid:

• • Excitotoxins (ex. caffeine, MSG, NutraSweet, red/yellow food dyes, nitrites, sulfites, glutamates, preservatives) sulfites and glutamates 
• • Sugar and refined starch
• • Never microwave in plastics or styrofoam

Step 3: Avoid foods with Gluten

Wheat free/Gluten Free

Use the acronym B.R.O.W.S. as a reminder of the foods one must avoid to stay gluten free.  Remember not to confuse food products that list “wheat” free as being the same as “gluten” free.  Wheat is only one source of gluten.

• • B - Barley
• • R - Rye
• • O - Oats
• • W - Wheat
• • S – Spelt

Step 4:  Work with a Doctor’s Supervision

Book References:

“Special Diets for Special Kids” by: Lisa Lewis

Brian J. Henninger practices Naturopathic Medicine in Fairfield, CT. He practices family medicine using nutrition, homeopathy, craniosacral therapy, and H.B.O.T.

(203)255-4325

www.brianhenningernd.com