Autism
Synopsis of Autism
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by differences in social communication, behavior, and sensory processing. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide range of symptoms and abilities experienced by individuals with autism. People with autism may have unique strengths (e.g., focused interests, attention to detail) and challenges (e.g., difficulty with social interactions, repetitive behaviors).
Autism presents in early childhood, though some individuals may not be diagnosed until later in life. It is a lifelong condition, but supportive therapies, educational interventions, and nutritional strategies can help individuals thrive and manage specific challenges.
Types:
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Classic autism (Autistic disorder): Significant challenges in communication, social skills, and behavior.
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Asperger’s syndrome (historical term): Milder social challenges without language delay (now part of ASD).
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Pervasive developmental disorder-not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS): Used for individuals who don’t fully meet criteria for other autism types (now part of ASD).
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High-functioning autism: Informal term for individuals with average or above-average intelligence but autistic traits.
Common Causes (Risk Factors):
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Genetic factors: Strong hereditary component; multiple genes implicated.
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Prenatal influences: Maternal infections, exposure to toxins, or medications during pregnancy.
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Brain development differences: Abnormalities in neural connectivity, brain growth, or neurotransmitters.
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Environmental factors: Advanced parental age, low birth weight, or prematurity may increase risk.
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Gut-brain axis dysfunction: Emerging research suggests gut microbiome imbalances may influence behavior and brain health.
More Severe Causes (Complications):
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Communication difficulties: May affect social relationships and learning.
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Behavioral challenges: Repetitive behaviors, rigidity, difficulty adapting to change.
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Sensory processing issues: Heightened or reduced sensitivity to sounds, lights, textures.
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Coexisting conditions: Anxiety, ADHD, epilepsy, sleep disorders, gastrointestinal issues.
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Social isolation: May result from difficulty engaging in typical social environments.
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Emotional distress: Frustration from communication barriers or sensory overload.
When to See a Doctor or Specialist (Developmental Pediatrician, Neurologist, Psychologist):
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Delays in speech or social milestones (e.g., lack of eye contact, limited gestures by 12 months)
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Repetitive behaviors or restricted interests
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Difficulty engaging in social interactions or forming peer relationships
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Hypersensitivity or low sensitivity to sensory stimuli
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Coexisting behavioral or developmental concerns (e.g., seizures, ADHD)
Natural remedies for Autism
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA, EPA): Support brain development, reduce inflammation, and may improve mood, social function, and communication. Include fish oil or plant-based omega-3 supplements.
Probiotics: Support gut health and the gut-brain axis, which may influence mood, behavior, and immune function. Include fermented foods or high-quality probiotic supplements.
Zinc Supplementation: Supports neurotransmitter balance and immune function, may help with sensory processing and mood regulation. Supplement under professional guidance.
Magnesium: Calms the nervous system, supports sleep, reduces anxiety and irritability. Consider magnesium glycinate or citrate.
Vitamin B6 and Magnesium (Combination): Supports neurotransmitter production (e.g., serotonin, dopamine) and may reduce irritability or improve social engagement. Used together for synergistic effects.
Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet (GFCF): Some individuals with autism show improvements in behavior and digestion on this diet. Eliminate gluten and dairy products.
Melatonin: Supports sleep regulation in individuals with autism who experience sleep disturbances. Use under supervision.
L-Theanine: Promotes relaxation, reduces anxiety, and supports focus without sedation. Found in green tea or as a supplement.
Curcumin (Turmeric): Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, may support cognitive function and reduce oxidative stress. Take with black pepper for better absorption.
Structured Routines and Sensory Integration Activities: Provide predictability and support sensory processing challenges. Include occupational therapy with sensory-focused strategies.
Ingredients
These raw ingredients are often used in alternative medicine to treat Autism
2'-Fucosyllactose
acetyl l-carnitine
alpha lipoic acid
amino acids
ashwagandha
bifidobacterium breve
bifidobacterium infantis
bifidobacterium longum
branched-chain amino acids
butyrate triglyceride
choline
citicoline
creatine monohydrate
curcumin
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
folate
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
green tea
inositol
l-5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt (5-MTHF)
l-carnitine
l-carnosine
l-glycine
l-serine
l-taurine
l-theanine
l-tryptophan
lactobacillus reuteri
magnesium
medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
melatonin
omega-3 fatty acids
phosphatidylserine
phytocannabinoids
prolyl endopeptidase (PEP)
butyric acid
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
selenium
sulforaphane glucosinolate
vitamin B6
vitamin C
vitamin D
vitamin E
zinc
2-Fucosyllactose
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
Algal Oil
Acetyl L-Tyrosine
Acetylcholine
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Alpha lactalbumin
Amino Acid (unspecified)
Acetyl L-Carnitine Arginate
Acetyl-l-glutathione
Amino Acid Blend/Complex
Aniracetam
Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate
Astragalin
Bifidobacterium longum
Bifidobacterium infantis
Bifidobacterium (various species)
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
Bifobacterium (mixed)
blend (herb/botanical)
botanical (unspecified)
Beta-hydroxybutyrate
Biopterin
Blend (Amino Acid/Protein)
Bacillus (mixed)
Bacopa monnieri
Blend (Fatty Acid or Fat/Oil Supplement)
Bifidobacterium breve
Bacillus (unspecified)
Bacteria (unspecified)
Bifidobacteria (unspecified)
Beta Hydroxybutyrate
Blend (combination)
Bacteria
blend (herb/botanical)
Branched-Chain Amino Acids
Bifidobacteria
Branched Chain Amino Acids
Biogenic amine
Casein Glycomacropeptide
Cannabidiol
Clostridium butyricum
Carnitine
Cysteine compounds (unspecified)
Caprylic acid triglycerides
Cysteine
Cannabigerol
Docosahexaenoic Acid
DHA
DHEA
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
Dimethylglycine
DHA-conjugated phosphatidylserine
Dopamine
Delivery system
Dimethylglycine
DMG (Dimethylglycine)
Folinic Acid
Folic Acid
food additive (unspecified)
Free Form Amino Acid
Fatty acids
Fish Oil
Fish Oil
Flavor/Color (Natural & Artificial)
Glutamine
Goat milk protein
Glutamate
Glycine
Glycine
Glutathione
Glutamic Acid
Glutamine precursor (unspecified)
Hemp oil
ketone (unspecified)
Ketone Salts
Ketone
L-Acetyl n-Cysteine
L-Tryptophan
Lactobacillus reuteri
L-Taurine
L-Serine
MCT / Medium Chain Triglycerides
Methylcobalamin
Melatonin
Medium Chain Triglycerides
Methylcobalamin Dicalcium Phosphate
Medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
Magnesium Beta-Hydroxybutyrate
Melatonin
Magnesium Taurinate
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-acetylcysteine
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-acetylneuraminic acid
N-Acetyl Neuraminic acid
Omega-3 fatty acids
Oxytocin
Omega-3
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Piracetam
phosphatidyl inositol
Phosphatidylinostol
Plankton (unspecified)
phosphatidyl inositol
Probiotics
Proprietary Blend (Dietary substance used by man to supplement the diet by increasing the total diet
Placental protein
Pituitary
plant (unspecified)
Proprietary Blend (Herb/Botanical)
Serine
Sodium Butyrate
Sodium decanoate
Sodium Benzoate
SAM-e
Sialic acid
Sodium Benzoate
Sulforophane
Serine
Stem Cells
Schizochytrium
Saturated Fatty Acid (unspecified)
Serotonin
Sulforaphane
Sulphoraphane
triglyceride
trehalose
Tetrahydrocannabivarin
Total Fat
Trehalose
Taurine
Uridine monophosphate
Vitamin B9 (folinic acid)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)
Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5 phosphate)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)
Vitamin B9
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol succinate)
Venus's Fly Trap
Vitamin B12 (Hydroxycobalamin)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxamine)
Vitamin B9 (calcium methylfolate)
Vitamin B9 (folinic acid)
Vitamin B9 (methyltetrahydrofolate)
Vitamin B
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5-phosphate)
Vitamin B6 (not specified)
Vitamin B6 (unspecified)
Vitamin B9 (methylfolate)
Vitamin B6 (various)
Zinc
Zinc magnesium aspartate
