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Autism and Allergies   by Laura Hathaway

Parents of children with autism and other disabilities quickly discover that traditional wisdom with regard to education, medicine, diet and nutrition does not necessarily work well for them. They search for and are more willing to try less mainstream alternatives in the hope that their children may be helped. Consequently, food allergies and their affect on childhood development and behavior have become a growing interest.

Many children with autism have multiple food allergies. Casein sensitivity and gluten intolerance are two of the most common. Casein is a protein found in dairy products. It is also used as a binding agent in many other types of foods and some medications. The digestive systems of children with autism are not able to fully break down this protein. It has been suggested that the residual partially-digested by-product has a negative effect (like a drug) on these children's bodies and their behavior. Specifically, it could reduce their desire for social interaction, block their brain's pain receptors, and increase confusion.

Gluten is a protein found in grains like wheat, barley, rye, and oats. For people with gluten intolerance, ingesting gluten destroys the cilia in the small intestine that absorb the nutrients from the food that they eat. People with gluten intolerance respond to its presence by having an immune reaction which can manifest itself as diarrhea, fatigue, anemia, malnutrition, failure to thrive or weight loss, weight gain, and muscle cramps. You can see why eliminating foods that contain casein and gluten may have a profound effect on children with autism. When they feel better they will do better!

Some of you are probably thinking, "This is all well and good but my child is already a picky eater. I'm afraid that if I eliminate milk and bread from my child's diet that they won't eat enough or nutritionally." Others are thinking that their child will not be able to enjoy a birthday cake ever again. This is not necessarily so. As awareness of these food allergies has increased so have the the choices available to sufferers. Chain grocery stores and health food stores continue to expand their gluten-fee and casein-free selections. I recommend asking someone to show you where these foods are kept within the store as not all of them may be in the same department.

A personal favorite, Sugar Kisses Bakery is a little gem for those that have casein and gluten allergies and live in the Berkley, Michigan area. It is a charming natural pastry shop that caters to those with these and other food allergies. They use all-natural ingredients and as many organic ingredients as they can find. They offer delicious gluten-free/casein-free baked goods including cakes (which they will happily personalize for birthdays), pies, cookies, cupcakes, muffins, and more. Visit http://www.SugarKissesBakery.com for more information about their menu. Bon Apetit!

About the Author

Laura Hathaway writes about differently-abled children, their unique needs and the resources to meet them. Read more at http://www.WarnersCornerToys.com
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