So, what is the link between autism and diet? A panel from Harvard University says nothing.

The panel of 29, chaired by Dr Timothy Buie, says further that food allergies, and other food sensitivities are also not the cause of autism. In addition, the panel concluded that a dairy / casein free diet, a gluten free diet – or a diet free of both of these food substances – is no real help as a primary treatment.

This could be explosive in the autism community. Parents swarm to support groups where many advocate restricting known food allergens. Up to 90 per cent of parents will likely try some dietary changes to help their autistic children. Many believe that autoimmune reactions or even allergies to dairy and gluten can contribute to autism. However, Dr Fred Volkmar, director of the Child Study Center at Yale, said there is no evidence that alternative diets work.

Volkmar says that children on these diets who also have undiagnosed gastrointestinal problems like food allergies or lactose intolerance will benefit only because the child feels better – and this leads to better behavior.

Expect parents of autistic children to react to this research – especially with the experience of high-profile parents such as Jenny McCarthy. McCarthy believes that she healed her autistic son through dietary interventions.

Sources: eCanadaNow; GenerationRescue.org