A cure for autism? As researchers announce they have discovered a way to reverse condition, experts slam claims as 'bad science' and 'deeply insulting'

Experts have slammed a study that claimed severe autism in children can be 'dramatically improved and reversed' with a controversial behaviour therapy. The study relied solely on anecdotal reports and descriptions from the girls' parents, rather than independent observations or assessments The criticised study was published in the little-known Journal of Personalized Medicine They were also placed on a gluten-free, low-sugar diet and given a number of dietary supplements, including omega-3 fatty acids, a multivitamin and vitamin D. But experts say the study was poorly devised and amounts to no more than an 'anecdote'. Signs of autism in girls that could be different to boys include: Hiding signs of autism by copying how other children behave and play Withdraw in situations they find difficult Appear to cope better with social situations Show fewer signs of repetitive behaviours Source: NHS 'It's very bad science. Tim Nicholls, assistant director at the National Autistic Society, said the study was 'deeply insulting' to the more than 700,000 autistic people in the UK. The National Autistic Society says ABA is one of the most researched autism treatments, but there are significant limitations and gaps in the research, particularly about long-term effects.