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A previously rare disorder, autism has become an epidemic in our children, currently with an estimated 1 in 150 children affected. Autistic disorder is characterized by impairments in social interaction, abnormal communication and language development, and restricted, repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, interests and activities Theories as to causes of autism, and research exploring risk factors, genetics, and therapies continue to uncover the truly complex interplay of factors. Abnormal development of the brain, immune system dysfunction with autoimmune characteristics, digestive disorders, detoxification impairment, environmental factors (vaccines, heavy metals, chemicals, viruses), and genetic susceptibility combine to produce the variable manifestations of autism spectrum disorder.
The diagnosis of ASD is based on psychological evaluation, however autism is a medical condition that responds to treatment directed at the underlying factors. Autistic symptoms may be reversed and normalized with proper intervention. For each child I believe the biomedical component must be included as an integral part in treatment of the whole condition. Autistic children are very different from one another, and each child will require a medical program tailored for them.
Testing is a vital part of the treatment process, and is usually begun at the first consultation. Refer to the Testing pages for details and costs of tests. Standard initial tests are:
- Food allergy (IgG) test
- Hair analysis
- Organic acid test
- Comprehensive Stool Analysis + Parasitology
- Gluten/Casein Peptide test
- Other testing as indicated based on history and symptoms
Treatments for autism are based on Defeat Autism Now/ biomedical protocols, as well as naturopathic therapies, and include:
- Dietary counseling- Gluten & Casein-free diet, remove food allergies or sensitivities, combat yeast overgrowth, and ensure adequate nutrient intake to improve digestion, immune function, and behavior.
- Nutritional supplementation- to support brain and nervous system functioning, improve digestion, normalize immune response, regulate detoxification processes, and correct nutritional deficiencies. Essential fatty acids, probiotics, vitamins and minerals, antioxidants, and digestive enzymes are some of the basic supplements often required. Nasal Methyl B12 + folinic acid spray is now available.
- Detoxification and Chelation- using medicines and therapies to bind toxins and heavy metals, to remove them from the body. Common findings in autism are toxic levels of metals such as mercury, lead, aluminum, cadmium, and arsenic, which damage the brain and nervous system, as well as causing immune, metabolic, and digestive problems. Chelators such as EDTA, DMSA, malic acid, lipoic acid and other natural binders can be used to support detoxification and pull metals out of tissues.
- Homeopathic medicine, drainage and detoxification remedies- to remove cellular toxins, stimulate the body to heal, to complete deficient development of organs or tissues, and address genetic tendencies.
- Herbal medicine- to support proper organ function and treat imbalances in body systems. There are many effective anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial botanical medicines, as well as excellent herbs to support the immune system, liver/detoxification, gastrointestinal, hormonal and nervous systems.
- Physical Medicine- detoxification therapies aimed at ridding the body of accumulated toxins, improving circulation and nutrient delivery to tissues, and enhancing overall functioning and health e.g. castor oil packs, hydrotherapy, FIR sauna
- Please note, as a naturopathic doctor I do not prescribe drugs, e.g. Nystatin, Valtrex, Diflucan, or antibiotic medications. I do use natural alternatives for anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial therapies, as well as immune system support.
Consultation, assessments using appropriate tests, and specific treatment plans are necessary for each child's program. Parents should be prepared to commit long-term, as there are no short-cuts or quick fixes with ASD. Extensive periods may be needed to properly address all the underlying factors involved in the disorder. An active role by caregivers is strongly encouraged in implementing various therapies, diet and lifestyle changes, as well as following-up with consultations, and is crucial in the treatment process.
Autism has profoundly touched me and my family, as my son has autism. This inspires me to work toward the health and healing of other autistic children.
~ My son Zach ~
“When I approach a child, he inspires in me two sentiments;
tenderness for what he is, and respect for what he may become.” -Louis Pasteur
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