Gluten-free Diet and Behavioral Well-being in People with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review

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 t...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors:	Mar, Felices Torres, María del Mar, Luque de la Rosa, Antonio
Format:	Digital
Language:	Spanish / Castilian
Published:	UNIVERSIDAD ANTONIO NARIÑO 2026
Subjects:	Trastorno del espectro autista dieta sin gluten comportamiento revisión sistemática bienestar socioemocional Autism spectrum disorder gluten-free diet behavior systematic review well-being
Online Access:	https://revistas.uan.edu.co/index.php/papeles/article/view/2458
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Summary:	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.