About opioid molecules in wheat and dairy and how they may affect
behavior in autism and other disorders
Steve Parcell, ND
NatureMed Clinic 5330 Manhattan Circle, Suite B / Boulder, CO 80303 / 303.884.7557 /
www.naturemedclinic.com
2/15/2016
Autism is a developmental disorder of unknown etiology. Several factors have been
implicated in its pathogenesis, including genetic, environmental, immunological, and
neurological elements.
Casomorphin and gliadorphin (also known as exporphins) are part of a complete
screening test for reactivity to wheat and diary foods. This is not an allergy test. Allergy
is important but is tested for in a different way. A urine sample is collected and sent to a
special lab. Casomorphin (or casomorphin) is a molecule derived from the milk protein
casein. Casein is one of the major proteins in the milk of all mammals including humans.
Dr. Reichelt in Norway, Dr. Cade at the University of Florida, and others found that urine
samples from people with autism, celiac disease and schizophrenia contained high
amounts of the casomorphin in their urine.
The peptides from gluten and casein are important because they bind to opiate receptors
in the brain, mimic the effects of opiate drugs like heroin and morphine and affect
behavior. These compounds have been shown to react with areas of the brain such as the
temporal lobes, which are involved in speech and auditory integration.
Children with autism frequently seem addicted to wheat and dairy products. People with
Autism and schizophrenia incompletely digest wheat and dairy products because they
lack a special enzyme.. These incompletely digested peptides are then absorbed into the
body and bind to the receptors, altering behavior and other physiological reactions.
Gliadorphin (or gluteomorphin) is a peptide derived from the wheat protein gluten. Other
related grains such as rye, barley and oats also contain the sequence of amino acids found
in gluten. Gliadorphin is very similar to casomorphin.
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