Dieta sin gluten y bienestar conductual en personas con trastorno del espectro autista: revisión sistemática

María del Mar Felices Torres; Antonio Luque de la Rosa

doi:10.54104/papeles.v18n36.2458

Authors

Mar University of Almería
Antonio Luque de la Rosa University of Almería https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7981-029X (unauthenticated)

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54104/papeles.v18n36.2458

Keywords:

Autism spectrum disorder, gluten-free diet, behavior, systematic review, well-being

Abstract

Introduction: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by difficulties in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behavioral patterns that directly impact the socio-emotional well-being of students. The gut-brain axis has been proposed as a mechanism through which a gluten-free diet (GFD) may influence behavior in individuals with ASD. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA protocol, searching five databases (EBSCO, Dialnet, WOS, Scielo, Scopus) with Boolean combinations of “diet”, “gluten” and “autism”. After applying inclusion/exclusion criteria, 13 studies published between 2006 and 2023 were selected. Results and discussion: The findings are heterogeneous. Most quantitative studies did not report statistically significant improvements; however, parents, teachers, and caregivers consistently noted positive changes in language, hyperactivity, social interaction, and stereotyped behaviors. Studies with longer follow-up and gastrointestinal symptom profiles showed greater benefits. Conclusions: The GFD may be a complementary therapeutic strategy for certain individuals with ASD, particularly those with gastrointestinal comorbidities. Closer collaboration among educators, families, and health professionals is essential for its successful implementation.

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