Re: Need to start a gluten free diet; but still need to increase caloric intake

[Guest guest]

Hi,

I don't know who you are, but will try to help. First, gluten free

diets do not always help with autism spectrum disorders. My son is

PDD, which is the autism spectrum along with his RSS. I don't know

that you will be able to get enough calories into your son on a gluten-

free diet. I would strongly suggest not starting it until you can

consult with a doctor.

Good luck,

Judith, Steve, (RSS) and (non RSS) 5 year old twins

[Guest guest]

I agree with Judith. I'm the mom of a 17 year old with RSS and who

has traits within the PDD spectrum. We were discouraged from trying a

gluten-free diet by Dr. H. She said that the potential loss of

calories was not worth taking a chance on this diet. I'm also a

special ed teacher and have not seen much of a difference, although

parents do swear by it.

I understand that you want to do whatever you can for your child. And

you should. But please consider what Judith said and do nothing until

you consult with a doctor. It IS possible to be gluten free and get

calories in, but with a child who already has a decreased appetite,

that limits the potential foods even more. It takes a lot of

dedication and dealing with a lot of frustration. As I said, however,

I understand your desire/need to try everything you can. You can

always go back and you will never have to say " I wish I had tried

that! "

Jodi Z