Abnormal urinary peptide patterns and peptide levels are reported in autism. These abnormalities are in part peptides from gluten, gliadin and casein, and some of them are opioids. These opioids cross the blood-brain barrier and effect the central nervous system. A seven year old girl with autistic behaviour who benefited from a diet without gluten and casein is described in this case report. The young girl's behaviour and skills were registered before diet, after one year and after two. Over the period of two years the girl changed from being severely withdrawn to a normally communicating child who enjoys the company of others. The child's linguistic and cognitive skills also increased simultaneously more than could be expected. Furthermore her urine patterns and peptide levels were normalised.
Keywords: Autism; Casein; Diet; Gluten; Opioids; Peptides.