Whole Body Healing

Autism is a complex developmental disability that typically appears during the first three years of life. Autism is a disorder that affects the normal functioning of the brain, impacting development in the areas of social interaction and communication skills. Both children and adults with autism typically show difficulties in verbal and non-verbal communication, social interactions, and leisure or play activities.

Causes of Autism

Autism is a complicated diagnosis because it affects each individual differently and at varying degrees. By learning the signs of Autism, a child can begin benefiting from early detection of the disorder.

Malabsorption problems and nutritional deficiencies have been shown to be linked with Autism in several studies. Some studies conducted in 2000 suggest that intestinal disorders and chronic gastrointestinal inflammation may reduce the absorption of essential nutrients and cause disruptions in immune and general metabolic functions that are dependent upon these essential vitamins. Other studies have shown that children with autism may have low levels of vitamins A, B1, B3, B5, biotin, selenium, zinc, and magnesium. A few studies have shown that Autistic children may suffer from an elevated serum copper to plasma zinc ratio, suggesting that people with autism should avoid copper and take extra zinc to boost their immune system. Some studies have indicated a need for more calcium.

Perhaps the most common vitamin studied in autism is vitamin B, which plays an important role in creating enzymes needed by the brain. In 18 studies on the use of vitamin B and magnesium, almost half of the individuals with autism showed improvement. The benefits include decreased behavioral problems, improved eye contact, better attention, and improvements in learning.

Other research studies with autism have shown that cod liver oil supplements (rich in vitamins A and D) have resulted in improved eye contact and behavior in children and vitamin C helps in brain function and deficiency symptoms like depression and confusion. In a small pilot study in Arizona, using a multivitamin/mineral complex on 16 children with autism, improvements were observed in sleep, gastrointestinal problems, language, eye contact, and behavior.

If you are considering the addition of vitamins or minerals to your child's diet, it is important to work with someone knowledgeable in nutritional therapy. While large doses of some vitamins and minerals may not be harmful, others can be toxic.

Other causes of Autism may include environmental toxic exposures such as pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides. The two states which used particular chemicals for the extermination of carpenter ants have been shown to have the highest incidence of Autism.

Vaccines have also been suspected in causing Autism. Although no one vaccine has been shown to cause Autism, the accumulation of preservatives in many vaccines has been implicated in causing Autism.

Treatment

Although there is no cure for autism, there are many treatments and educational approaches that may reduce the challenges associated with the disability and help your child live a more normal life. Treatment intervention can help to lessen disruptive behaviors, and education can teach self-help skills that allow for greater independence.

However, just as there is no one symptom or behavior that identifies autistic children, there is no one single treatment. Treatment plans must be tailored to the child's individual behaviors and needs. The basis for choosing the plan should come from a thorough evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses observed in your child. Together we should asses your child's needs and create a treatment plan.

Also you do not have to exclude other options, I work well with other health care professional and educators of Autistic children.