Autism

Autism (also known as autism spectrum disorder) is the name given to a group of major developmental disorders in which individuals who are affected exhibit severe problems with communication, behavior, and social relationships. Autism is most often diagnosed around the age of three, when caregivers begin to notice abnormalities in a child’s behavior and development.

Frequently, individual’s with autism seem self-absorbed and show little to no interest in other people. Avoiding physical contact is also common in those affected, and children with autism are often delayed in speech development. With early detection, intervention and treatment, children with autism are more likely to function at higher levels.

Possible Causes of Autism

Though there is no single, definitive cause of autism, many factors appear to increase the risk of developing the disorder. Evidence has shown that exposure to certain viruses during pregnancy may be an influence, and there is growing concern that some viruses associated with childhood vaccinations may be responsible for autism, as well.

Areas with a high level of contamination and pollutants seem to have a higher incidence of autism. Studies show that there is also a genetic component to the disease. Symptoms produced by the disorder arise from the failure of different parts of the brain to interact normally. The hippocampus, which is responsible for memory, emotions, learning and aggression, appears underdeveloped and contains fewer receptors for neurotransmitters.

Autism Symptoms

• Communication: Difficulty communicating; delays in learning to speak; difficulty understanding implied meanings and body language.
• Social: Difficulty relating to other people; lack empathy or understanding of the feelings of others; socially awkward.
• Cognitive: Limited ability to focus their attention; intense interest within a confined subject.
• Behavioral: Compulsive behavior; very attached to routines, and upset when they are interrupted; self-harm; repetitive movements; difficulty sleeping.
• Stimulus/Response to Pain: Hypersensitivity or insensitivity to tactile stimulus or pain; hypersensitivity or insensitivity to sound; over-sensitive to light.
• Intestinal Dysfunction/Food Allergies: Sensitivities to certain foods and/or food allergies; intestinal dysfunction; ulcerations; “leaky gut”.

Medical Testing for Autism

• Food Allergies
• Heavy Metals
• Vitamin Analysis
• Neurotransmitters
• Amino Acids
• Candida
• Fatty Acid Profile
• Histamine Levels

Treating Autism

Dietary changes may be beneficial in treating autism. There is evidence that autistic children respond positively to the removal of wheat and dairy products from their diet. Casein and gluten – proteins found in milk and wheat – are believed to be broken down in the intestines of autistic children into toxic peptides that imitate the effects of hallucinogenic drugs and opiates.

Suggested Autism Supplements Include:

• Studies have shown that Vitamin B6 supplementation at 8mg/pound has shown improvement in symptoms.
• Multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.
• Essential fatty acid – Omega 3 fatty acids from molecularly distilled fish oil.
• Amino acid supplements – Due to poor digestion or limited protein intake, levels of amino acids are often deficient. This can lead to neurotransmitter imbalances, glutathione deficiency, hormone and immune disruptions.
• Detox kits for environmental pollutants and heavy metal toxins.
• Antimicrobial agents to improve intestinal function. Autistic children have low levels of the good beneficial bacteria and high levels of the harmful bacteria and yeasts, such as candida.
• Digestive Enzymes – Tests have shown that most children with Autism are low on certain digestive enzymes. A comprehensive stool analysis can pinpoint which ones.
• Transdermal glutathione cream is absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the skin. Glutathione protects the body from toxic metals and other neurotoxins. Oral glutathione is poorly absorbed.