What is it?
A gluten-free diet removes gluten, a group of proteins found in wheat, barley, rye and related grains.
Foods removed:
Regular bread, pasta, cereal, crackers, baked goods and products containing wheat, barley, rye, malt or triticale. Oats should be specifically labeled gluten-free when cross-contact is a concern.
Potential health benefits:
A strict gluten-free diet is the medical treatment for celiac disease. It may also be appropriate for a diagnosed wheat allergy or certain cases of non-celiac gluten sensitivity.
Who may benefit most?
Children with celiac disease, wheat allergy or a professionally evaluated gluten-related disorder.
How may it support an autistic child?
An autistic child who also has celiac disease or a gluten-related condition may experience less abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloating, fatigue or other symptoms after gluten is removed. Improved physical comfort may support everyday functioning, but a gluten-free diet has not consistently been shown to improve autism in children without a gluten-related condition.
Important nutrients to monitor:
Fiber, iron, folate and B vitamins, particularly when gluten-containing whole grains are replaced with highly processed gluten-free foods.