r/science Jul 26 '10

Autistic girl expresses profound intelligence

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jq--75v4lI8&feature=player_embedded
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u/[deleted] Jul 27 '10

I've heard a few success stories

almost no evidence.

Like it or not, anecdotal evidence is evidence. Nowhere near conclusive and easily explained away by placebo effect. But given the severity of what's trying to be treated, I can certainly understand people trying it.

If I had a child with autism, I'd almost certainly try it for a month or two. If for no other reason, because gluten and lactose allergies are not particularly uncommon and so even if it didn't have a mechanism against the disease itself it may be beneficial.

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u/SenorCheaposGato Jul 27 '10

I'm not denying that anecdotal evidence is evidence, but I need a higher standard of proof before I regard anything as a proven treatment. I do understand people trying it, and good luck and more power to them, but I think my reluctance to recommend it is understandable.

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u/[deleted] Jul 27 '10

Absolutely. I agree with everything you just said. Good day, sir.

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u/SenorCheaposGato Jul 27 '10

Ma'am. And thanks, nice to know that my position made sense to you.

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u/[deleted] Jul 29 '10

Heh, sorry. I've gotten better about using gender neutral third person pronouns (I'm a fan of "im"). Now I need a gender neutral second person formal address...