Autism-World

Q:We are trying (started today) with eliminating casein from our 3 year old autistic son’s diet.Thought it was worth a try. How long does it take to get out of the system.When can we make a decision on whether or not it is working (if he is actually affected by it)?

Answer:

If you did an allergy test, it can take up to 8 months for the levels of the antibodies to go down significantly. Usually you eliminate casein or any food for 2-3 months before trying to reintroduce it back into the diet. Some parents have reported a reaction ( red ears and obsessive compulsive behaviors) about 30 minutes after reintroducing casein back into the diet. You need to read all labels as bread can contain milk as well as some fast foods.

My son is on an elimination diet, and gf/cf. We checked for allergies and food intolerances. A true allergy will show up rapidly ( IgE) and a food intolerance can take up to 3 days (IgG). A food intolerance may take the form as a headache, upset stomach, bad behavior, etc. I have to avoid eating melons because the sulfur in them gives me migraines ( food intolerance).. Some parents have reported increase in language and reduction in bad behaviors shortly after removing casein. I would get some digestive enzymes for the times that casein is accidently ingested.

Rice Milk, almond milk, Vances’ Dairyfree ( potatoe, milk) are good substitutes for milk. You may also try going gluten free and soy free also.

My son showed no antibodies to gluten and casein but the food intolerance showed allergies to milk, wheat, etc.

Going gluten free made my son’s stool turn from yellow to brown in a day. Every time I reintroduce gluten, it turns back to yellow. I did not see any behavior reactions to this.
Going casein free has caused the mucous to go away. If he gets a cold, the mucous stays clear, not getting whitish.

Good Luck, as this diet change is going to be tough.

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This entry was posted on Tuesday, September 18th, 2007 at 9:51 pm and is filed under Ask and answer.