Research shows that celiac disease is linked to autism. Some manifestations of celiac disease are autistic like behavior, headaches, stomach aches and depression. I found a cite for parents of autistic children that recommends a gluten, wheat and dairy free diet for autistic children. Since I have tried the diet I have experienced less headaches and no migraines. I also find that cutting out sugars, adequate regular sleep patterns and no coffee (although I do drink black tea and yerba mate) relieve me from developing headaches and stomach aches as often.
I see our body as a whole, everything functioning and affecting everything else. Our diets greatly affect our well being, and since links have been found between autism and sensitivities to wheat and gluten it makes since we may be more prone to migraines and other symptoms which manifest themselves in a variety of ways.
I pulled some of the most relevant pieces from the website, as well as the link below.
http://www.nationalautismassociation.org...erview.php
2)Test for yeast and bacteria overgrowth in your daughter's gut. A form of yeast called candida albicans and other intestinal microbes are a known problem in children with autism. The Organic Acid Test (OAT) will help you determine the severity of the problem.
Typically children with autism have a history of ear infections which were treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics kill the "good" gut bacteria which normally keeps the yeast in check. Once the delicate balance has been disrupted yeast flourishes. Some of the behaviors linked to yeast overgrowth include confusion, hyperactivity, short attention span, lethargy, irritability, and aggression.
Attempting to restore intestinal balance is a constant struggle. Probiotics (meaning good bacteria) are an excellent supplement to begin replenishing the stock of natural flora. Controlling yeast may be accomplished using an anti-fungal medication like Nystatin in combination with natural yeast-fighting supplements like garlic, MCT oil (medium chain triglycerides) and activated charcoal.
Be careful. Other antifungal medications, like Diflucan and Nizoral inhibit the synthesis of steroid hormones. Treatment with either should not exceed 3 to 4 weeks followed by a 3 to 4 week rest period before beginning another round.
During yeast die-off symptoms and behaviors often temporarily worsen due to toxins flooding the body. Yeast die-off reactions generally begin within a week after antifungal treatments are started and last for 2 to 7 days, sometimes longer. Your daughter should drink plenty of distilled water, at least 8 ounces every 2 hours, during the die-off period.
There is growing evidence to suggest that individuals who experience greater than normal yeast die-off reactions suffer from elevated heavy metal levels. In addition, yeast overgrowth may only be eliminated in the long-term by removing the heavy-metal burden from the body. (Heavy-metal toxicity is something I will discuss in more detail below.)
3.) Implement a gluten- and casein-free (GFCF) diet. Almost 70 percent of children with autism respond favorably. The diet is not as difficult as it may seem at first. Download Mary Romaniec's presentation "GFCF and Do We Really Have to do this Diet" from this page which provides easy to follow, step-by-step instructions.
Instead of "GFCF diet" the phrase "GFCF environment" might be more appropriate. Gluten is found in toothpaste, hair shampoo, Play Dough, glue, and finger paint among other items. Gluten is also hidden in many foods you would never suspect, for instance, raisins are often dusted with flour (gluten) to keep them from clumping.
To effectively implement a GFCF diet a child's exposure to gluten and casein must be completely restricted (GFCF environment). Contamination can occur by touch, taste, or smell (skin, mouth, or nose). Some children are so sensitive they will react to gluten-free labeled foods which have been cross contaminated by the tiny amounts of airborne gluten found in plants processing other foods.
Call the manufacturers to ensure foods are gluten and casein free. Your daughter may not react to cross-contaminated foods. On the other hand be alert to the possibility. In addition, manufacturers often change ingredients and manufacturing operations. Food from a trusted company may suddenly become a problem. It is a good habit to constantly check food labels and keep in phone contact with companies.
The first month or two is a learning experience. Within a very short period of time, however, it will become second nature. Don't forget to throw away the old toothbrush when you begin the GFCF diet and begin using GFCF toothpaste.
In addition to the GFCF diet is the Special Carbohydrate Diet (SCD). Many children who do not respond to the GFCF diet fare wonderfully on the SCD. Elaine Gottschall created the SCD and her book Breaking the Vicious Cycle is a testament that good science and clear, concise writing are not mutually exclusive.
Reading Elaine's book is to know the illuminating power of science in the hands of a gifted writer. Ideas are presented not only in terms of what to do, but more importantly in terms of why. Elaine's work is a program for action steeped in something lived (Elaine saved her own daughter using a special diet).
In conjunction with a special diet (GFCF or SCD) consider enzymes as part of your daughter's supplements. Enzymes will help her properly digest gluten and casein introduced inadvertently. Enzymes will also help her digest other proteins, fats, starches, carbohydrates, and fibers.