Removing casein from LOs diet

[Twinmumum]

Hi there, I’m just wondering if anyone removed casein from their LO’s diet even without any apparent stomach problems? If so did it have any positive effect in ‘lifting the fog, so to speak? My 18mo dd has always shown autistic traits and at her (and her twin bother’s) s&l assessment the other day the therapist agreed that there could be something more than a speech delay there but said signs of asd appeared very mild if at all. She always seems tired, lying on the floor or sofa, or resting her head on me throughout the day, while her twin brother has boundless energy running and playing all day. I feel like I should ask for a blood test for anaemia/ iron deficiency etc but wondered if cutting dairy would help with her focus and awareness?? Thanks!

[rogueantimatter]

You could have an appointment with a private nutritionist who specialises in children. Not a dietitian. The institute of optimum nutrition will have a list of practitioners near you.

[EveryoneTalkAboutPopMusic]

Why a nutritionist rather than a dietician rogue?

[EllenJanethickerknickers]

I tried a GF CF Diet for my DS2 who has ASD, approved by his paediatrician and supervised by a dietician. (Not some quack 'nutritionist')

It happened to have no effect on his behaviour so I stopped it after 9 months. Apparently (according to the Sunderland autism research centre) if you stop casein you should see an improvement within a month. For gluten it can take up to six months. I wouldn't cut out casein from an 18 month old's diet without medical supervision, TBH. GF is easier.

Have you tried fish oils at all? DS2 takes equazen and I did notice some improved concentration after a month or so. Of course it may have been a coincidence but at least it's a harmless supplement.

[Twinmumum]

Thanks for sharing your experience with it! I actually took her off it last week and honestly noticed a difference the next day. She’s been like a different child all week, so much so that people who had no idea I’d changed her milk mentioned the change. I do want to try adding fish oils in too though- I’ve heard nothing but good things! I’ll look into those ones, thanks!

[Twinmumum]

Unfortunately we can’t afford private drs/ nutritionists, but I spoke to our gp about the change and she fully supported it which is always good.

[EveryoneTalkAboutPopMusic]

I don’t think you need money for extra appointments. A Paedatrician and a Paed Deitician should be fine