Here is a crash coarse on how the gut and brain are linked with gluten and casein.
First, it seems that some people with autism are unable to break down proteins effectively before they enter the bloodstream. It is not really understood weather this problem is caused by an enzyme issue, a digestive hormone issue (secretin), or a leaky gut issue. It could be a combination. If gluten and casein are not broken down completely, they become peptides which are opioid in nature. When my son gets gluten or casein, his blood tests positive for dermorphine, an opiate byproduct from gluten and casein. Many doctors are now becoming aware of this condition. Dermorphine can build up in the brain and continue to cause damage and problems as gluten and casein are continually ingested. It takes time to "wash" casein and particularly gluten out of the brain...anywhere from 6weeks to a year. If you omit these two proteins from your child's diet, a sure way to tell if they are even a problem to begin with, is observation. If you child becomes a bear, grumpy and uncontrollable, it is withdrawal. People with a withdrawal response should remain completely gluten and casein free. The withdrawal period can last 6 to 8 weeks. Then watch them start to bloom!!