Parents are increasingly confused about the subject of gluten (a protein found in wheat, barley and rye) and casein (the main protein in milk and cheese) sensitivity as it relates to children with neurological or behavioral delays. New advanced and reliable tests exist from credible labs that can be used to customize a diet based on the results. Parents that find it difficult to comply with a gluten- or casein-free diet soon realize the importance once they see the improvement in their children.

Research is finally catching up to what parents have known for a while: a harmless intervention can result in a dramatic change in a child’s behavior and cognitive function. Although many healthcare professionals are not aware of the relationship between gluten intolerance and neurological and behavioral disorders and often question its validity, an increasing number are becoming more educated about this condition. A growing number of medical journals have published articles related to “non-celiac wheat sensitivity,” but the subject needs more investigation, more testing and more outcomes.

The increasing epidemic of neurological and behavioral disorders requires an open-minded approach. These children deserve new ideas and understanding. To remove gluten from the diet has no harmful effects, but keeping it in could be unsafe.

Chris Turnpaugh is a doctor of chiropractic, board certified in neurology and owner of the Brain Balance Center of Mechanicsburg. For more information, call 717-697-5340 or visit Facebook.com/BrainBalanceOfMechanicsburg.