title: A review of gluten- and casein-free diets for treatment of autism: 2005-2015.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The gluten free, casein free (GFCF) diet is heralded by strong anecdotal parental reports to greatly improve and even "cure" symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). Yet to date, little conclusive empirical evidence exists supporting its use.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the state of the recent evidence regarding use of GFCF diet for treatment of individuals with ASD.
  
  
  METHODS
  Five database providers (PubMed, Web of Knowledge, EBSCO, ProQuest, and WorldCat) were used to search 19 databases yielding a total of 491 articles that were published through February 2015. Peer reviewed articles published between 2005 and February 2015 were included for review if study participants were identified as having ASD and investigated the effects of the GFCF diet on ASD behaviors or the relationship between the diet and these behaviors.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Evaluation of search results yielded 11 reviews, 7 group experimental studies including 5 randomized controlled trials, 5 case reports, and 4 group observational studies published during the last 10 years. These studies represent a marked increase in number of reported studies as well as increased scientific rigor in investigation of GFCF diets in ASD.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  While strong empirical support for the GFCF diet in ASD is currently lacking, studies point to the need for identifying subsets of individuals (e.g., those with documented gastrointestinal abnormalities) who may be the best responders to the GFCF diet. Identifying these subsets is critically needed to enhance rigor in this research area. Until rigorous research supporting use of GFCF diet is reported, clinicians should continue use caution and consider several factors when advising regarding implementation of the GFCF diet for individuals with ASD.
authors.affiliation: Department of Family and Community Health Nursing Science, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA.
authors.forename: Jennifer Harrison
authors.initials: JH
authors.lastname: Elder
authors.affiliation: Department of Occupational Therapy, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA.
authors.forename: Consuelo Maun
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Kreider
authors.affiliation: Health Science Center Library, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA.
authors.forename: Nancy M
authors.initials: NM
authors.lastname: Schaefer
authors.affiliation: Department of Psychology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL USA.
authors.forename: Mary B
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: de Laosa
keywords: Autism Spectrum Disorders; GFCF diet; casein-free; dietary intervention; gluten-free; review