Gluten and Dairy Free
The love for our children makes us parents do whatever is best for them. When the news that MJ was autistic we were not torn down, we were motivated to get him the help needed to ensure him a successful future. There are so many articles online about the “best” way to raise an autistic child that it can make any parent confused. MJ has some sensory issues and it has not been easy finding the right food that would give them the appropriate amount of nutrition.
MJ stayed clear of eggs, oatmeal, cheese and pretty much anything that left a wet or dusty feeling on his hands. When he started occupational therapy we were told that exposing these to him little by little would help him better cope with the texture and sensation. Before then, we were just staying clear of giving him anything he didn’t want. After the occupational therapist and we at home started exposing him to food items that he wouldn’t eat he became more willing to eat them and actually learned to love oatmeal and cheese.
There was a big thing that we also noticed in terms of his eating habits. He was growing more and more constipated and was always so gassy, no matter what he would eat it was difficult for him to go. We consulted with our pediatrician and she suggested that we incorporate more fiber into his diet. After reading article after article on gut health and autism. I came across the Gluten Free and Casin Free Diet (GFCF) diet. Most of us know that gluten is in almost everything we consume. Growing up gluten-free was not a thing that I was aware of, I don’t even think my mother was aware of what gluten was or that it was in our food. If it made your stomach upset you just didn’t eat it anymore. Casin is found in most dairy products, and being that he had become such a big fan of cheese I felt bad taking it away from him.
Being on the Keto diet ourselves, we understand that what we consume can change the way we feel. We decided that we would give the GFCF diet a go. We checked online on recipes and what some items he would like. I was pleasantly surprised to see a brand called Daiya they are a food line of “Dairy” products without actual dairy which made transitioning from cheese, yogurt, pizza, and cakes easier. While on the hunt for recipes we came across this book on Amazon, The Kid-Friendly ADHD & Autism Cookbook. It gives you a better understanding of the diet and how it affects kids as well as giving you fun recipes you can do with your child.
Whenever I pull out MJ’s pre-made lunch or snack while on the trips to the park or anywhere with friends and family, they’d always have questions - “What is that stuff?”, “Why?”, “Is it worth it?” In my opinion, it is worth it and I would suggest everyone try it. MJ has been on this diet for about a year and a half. During that time there have been periods where we give him treats like brownies, regular milk, and cheese. We noticed that when we give him those he doesn’t sleep as well and any little thing would bother him. Once he would be back on his regular GFCF diet his sleep is better and he isn’t as sensitive or small irritants or noises.
