What is GFCF?
Gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) is a way foods are labeled or referred to so that consumers know the food does not contain gluten or casein. These are the two substances that cause the most trouble for children with ADHD, autism, or both.
Casein - the main protein found in milk and milk products
Gluten - the main protein in wheat and other grains; it is found in wheat, rye, barley and oats.
Current research has determined that many children with ADHD and autism have intestinal and digestive issues stemming from a "leaky gut." This is where food molecules, which are not completely broken down, leak through tiny holes in the intestinal lining.
By eliminating foods that contain gluten and casein, there is a good chance that you will ease the digestive burden placed on your child. For advice on how to get started changing your child's diet, click here.
What effects do gluten and casein have on the body?
Many children with ADHD and autism have trouble breaking down gluten and casein.
- If gluten is not broken down correctly, it can result in peptide formations that mimic the chemical composition of opiates
- Lack of proper digestion of gluten and casein affects the methylation process, which is the body's way of ridding itself of toxins
It is easy to understand why many medical professionals are researching the benefits of eating organic foods and removing offensive, hard to digest foods from the diet of children whose bodies cannot properly detoxify themselves.
Examples of foods with both gluten and casein:
- Artificial sweeteners
- Bagels
- Vegetarian cheese
- Doughnuts
- Hot dogs
- Pizza