Some children with autism appear to respond to a gluten-free or casein-free diet. Gluten is found in foods containing wheat, rye, and barley. Casein is found in milk, cheese, and other dairy products. Not all experts agree that dietary changes will make a difference, and not all reports studying this method have shown positive results.

If you are considering these or other dietary changes, talk to both a doctor who specializes in the digestive system (gastroenterologist) and a registered dietitian. You want to be sure that the child is still receiving enough calories, nutrients, and a balanced diet.

Biomedical treatments for autism are often based on the DAN! (Defeat Autism Now!) approach to autism therapy. Doctors trained in the DAN! protocol prescribe special diets, supplements, and alternative treatments. These treatments have not been approved by the FDA or CDC - but many families report positive outcomes.

For a summary of biomedical treatments visit the Autism Research Institute.