MORE evidence that a special diet may help reduce the symptoms of autism will be unveiled at a conference in the North-East later this year.

Researchers from Sunderland have spent the past two years working on a collaborative study with other scientists across Europe.

The results of that work, which confirms that a diet free of gluten (a protein found in cereals) and casein (a protein found in animal’s milk) seems to help reduce the symptoms of autism, will be published in full at the ESPA Research conference at Sunderland Museum, on October 6.

There is growing interest in the autism community about the potential benefits of a gluten and casein-free diet, but scientists say that more research is needed.

Autism is a developmental condition affecting thousands of people.

Typically, someone with autism finds it difficult to relate to and communicate with other people.

There is increasing research to show that changes to a child’s diet can, in some cases, reduce some of the symptoms of autism.

ESPA Research on Wearside is one of the best-equipped autism research centres in the UK.

The first of what is intended to be an annual conference on the role of diet and nutrition in autism is expected to attract more than 100 people, including people with autism, their parents and healthcare professionals from across the country.

The results from the two-year study, looking at the impact of a gluten and casein-free diet, will be presented alongside findings based on the investigative technology used at the Sunderland centre.

Conference organiser Lynda Todd said: “This conference will provide a platform to showcase the cutting-edge research being carried out by ESPA research.”

“At the same time, also demonstrating how such research can be effectively translated into real-life strategies to help improve quality of life for people with autism and their families.”

ESPA is in the process of commissioning equipment which will help researchers to investigate evidence of environmental pollutants, such as pesticides.

ESPA – Education and Services for People with Autism – is a charity which provides a range of services for people with the condition.

The conference is supported by Sunderland City Council and Sainsbury’s supermarket group.