Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) encompass a group of disorders characterized by deficits in social skills and interactions, impairments in speech and communication, and unusual and repetitive behaviors.  The degree of autism varies in each individual, from high cognitive functioning to severe mental retardation.  Autism is considered to be a spectrum disorder because symptoms vary so widely from one individual to the next. 

Some parents of children with autism have seen positive results when dairy products are eliminated from the child's diet at a young age.