U.S. doctors online nowAsk doctors free
A 34-year-old member asked:

Can treatments for autism like gluten-free diets really work?

3 doctor answers9 doctors weighed in
Dr. Kathryn Akin
39 years experience
Sometimes: When you look at the population of all autism spectum individuals as a whole, they do not respond to gluten-free diets. However there is a sub-set of these individuals who respond very well to a gluten-free diet. These individuals often have a history of gastrointestinal problems, most commonly diarrhea. The only way to know for sure about any individual is to try the diet for a few weeks and see.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. James Ferguson
Pediatrics 48 years experience
No: They can help a child with autism and gluten sensitivity settle down and have a less disordered life.But that just brings him/her to equity with other autistic kids.It does not repair the issues that result in autism.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
Dr. Mark Diamond
Pediatrics 48 years experience
No: Not really.But kids with varying degrees of autism do have other comorbid conditions such as allergies or gluten sensitivity. So they feel better with the gluten free diet.But it does not seem to help the umderlying autistic problem.There is certainly no positive evidence.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.

Related questions

A 41-year-old member asked:
Does any one have good information on autism treatments?
5 doctor answers8 doctors weighed in
A 46-year-old member asked:
My friend has a.D.D. And autism. What kind of modern day treatments are available?
1 doctor answer3 doctors weighed in
A 47-year-old member asked:
Is there any effective treatment of autism in homeopathy?
2 doctor answers5 doctors weighed in
Last updated Nov 28, 2017
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $44!
50% off with $19/month membership

Disclaimer:

Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.