The GAPS DIET: Raising A Son With Special Needs

We had Easter Brunch with Willie at his school today.  It was lovely and delicious and one of my favorite days of the year! Even though we are Jewish, the Easter Celebration there, emphasizing birth and nature, speaks to my soul. Sharing song and feast in the communal Dining Room of Willie's school, along with the other students, their families, and other members of the community, is a highlight of being Willie's Mom. The understanding, acceptance, camaraderie, and all that is done right at The Camphill Special School, shone brightly this Easter afternoon.

During Brunch, I sat and chatted with Andreas, Willie's House Father. Part of our conversation focused on the Camphill Special School's obligation to our world at large and the growing Autism Epidemic. Andreas mentioned one study published recently has projected that 1 in 2 children will be born with Autism by 2025. He spoke about The GAPS Diet that the School follows. I knew this Diet could help with some symptoms of Autism but had never considered that it could help prevent Autism.

The GAPS Diet stands for The Gut and Psychology Syndrome, coined by Dr. Natasha Campbell McBride.  Please visit the following website for a more scientific and thorough explanation: www.gaps.me.  In the meantime, I want to share my understanding of the Diet.

When Willie moved to the Transition Program 3 years ago, I knew that his already healthy eating habits changed a bit. He ate more fermented vegetables, introduced us to a fermented beverage called Kombucha, and turned us onto delicious foods made with almond flour. I thought nothing of these changes except that I loved these additions and began to ask for recipes.

I learned then about The GAPS Diet which adheres to a strong connection between ones' digestive system and the brain. In fact, our digestive system is seen as another brain and can help with healing the entire body. The idea is that the symptoms of disability can be decreased by healing the Gut, by what we eat. I know that this dietary program is carefully followed at Willie's school and sense it truly helps each of the students' be their best selves. We have even started following some of the basics of the diet at our home.

It wasn't until today, talking with Andreas, a GAPS Diet Specialist, that I realized that this way of eating could possibly help to prevent the predicted Autism Epidemic. As you can imagine, this way of eating is harshly criticized by the public.  Now that science is discovering that Autism begins in early uterine development, the public must keep an open mind.  The Gaps Diet is one option that must be carefully studied, tested, and considered to prevent this epidemic. With so much still unknown about the development of Autism, why take a chance? Drink up that Kombucha!