Gluten-free Casein-free (GFCF) Diet – Will it work for you?

Gluten-free Casein-free (GFCF) Diet – Will it work for you?

Many digestive, neurological and inflammatory conditions respond well to a gluten and casein free diet, but how do you know if you or your loved one might benefit from avoiding these foods? Is it worth the effort?  We are pleased to offer an innovative, non-invasive test from Great Plains Laboratory that answers this question!

Casein, the protein in milk and gluten, a protein found in many grains (eg. wheat, spelt, rye, barley, oats) both form small protein fragments as they are digested in our intestine (casomorphin and gliadorphin). The resulting fragments can act as a signal and activate receptors in our body, including opiate receptors, in the digestive tract and brain. This in turn produces symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, drowsiness, mood changes (depression, anxiety), insomnia, food cravings and digestive discomfort.

Studies have indicated high levels of opiate peptides (casomorphin and gliadorphin) in the urine of patients with digestive, neurological and neuro-developmental disorders. A first morning urine sample is all that is required to perform this test. (gluten casein peptides test)

Conditions that may benefit from this test include: ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, depression, OCD, schizophrenia, tic disorders, Tourette Syndrome, down syndrome, alzheimers disease, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, colitis, Crohn’s disease and arthritis.

Once identified, restriction of gluten and cow’s milk in the diet (adhering to the GFCF diet) is helpful in alleviating symptoms, reducing inflammation and allowing the digestive tract and brain to heal.

If this test sounds like something you are interested in, please call the office at 289-291-0254 to schedule an appointment with one of our Naturopaths.

Jane Goehner, Naturopathic Doctor, Oakville