Gluten for Autism Spectrum Disorders

BACKGRUOUND: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common condition. The etiology of ASD remains unknown. Recent studies suggest a link between elimination diets and severity of autistic symptoms. The possible effects of a gluten-free diet (GFD) on symptoms remain unknown. AIM: The aim of the study is to evaluate the impact of gluten challenge on the autistic symptoms in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and on a gluten-free diet (GFD) in comparison to individuals continuing GFD. METHODS: 70 children with ASD aged 3-5 and 11/12 remaining on GFD for at least 8 weeks will be randomly assigned to gluten-free and gluten-challenge diet.