EiR Blog

A quick update: ESPA Research announces the publication of a new article in the peer-reviewed journal Autism Insights titled: How could a gluten- and casein-free diet ameliorate symptoms associated with autism spectrum conditions? The article is open-access and free to download for non-commercial purposes via the ESPA Research or publishers website (Libertas Academica). www.espa-research.org.uk Building on the various pieces of research attempting to determine how such dietary intervention may work in some cases of autism spectrum conditions, the authors detail the various evidence for a direct or co-morbid link between autism and (i) gluten sensitive enteropathy or coeliac disease, (ii) allergy and atopic disease, and (iii) hyperpermeability of the gastrointestinal membrane (leaky gut) and passage of biologically active material to the central nervous system. Many thanks All at ESPA Research ...

While adding the latest research abstracts to the site the other day I came across a very interesting paper regarding the effects gluten can have on the brain and nervous system. As you are no doubt ware, gluten is a protein found in grains including wheat, rye and barley, which is the trigger for the damage to the tissues of the small intestine in those with celiac disease. In this condition the immune system produces antibodies that attack the gluten consumed in the diet as well as the body's own tissues. As such celiac disease is classed as an autoimmune disease - the body attacks itself (in this case triggered by gluten). Those with celiac disease frequently suffer from mood disorders and neurological symptoms such as epilepsy, ataxia (coordination problems), and peripheral neuropathy, which results in symptoms including temporary numbness, tingling, and pricking sensations, sensitivity to touch, or muscle weakness...