naturopathic interventions in the holistic tx of autism
TRANSCRIPT
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Naturopathic Interventions Naturopathic Interventions in the Holistic Treatment in the Holistic Treatment
of Autismof Autism
Glenn B. Gero, Glenn B. Gero, N.D., D.Sc., M.Sc., M.H., M.E.S., C.L.C.N.D., D.Sc., M.Sc., M.H., M.E.S., C.L.C.
Holistic Naturopathic CenterHolistic Naturopathic CenterClifton, NJClifton, NJ
© 2010© 2010
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What is Naturopathy?What is Naturopathy?
Naturopathic medicine is a system that Naturopathic medicine is a system that focuses on promoting and maintaining focuses on promoting and maintaining health and wellness by the use of natural health and wellness by the use of natural means, without the use of toxic therapies. means, without the use of toxic therapies. Naturopathic doctors are trained Naturopathic doctors are trained specialists in non-invasive natural specialists in non-invasive natural medicine utilizing holistic nutrition, medicine utilizing holistic nutrition, botanical medicine, homeopathy, exercise botanical medicine, homeopathy, exercise therapy, biofeedback and life coaching.therapy, biofeedback and life coaching.
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Check Engine LightCheck Engine Light
Should We Treat the Symptom or Find Should We Treat the Symptom or Find the Cause?the Cause?
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Take Home Points Take Home Points
Autism is a multifactorial disease associated with a Autism is a multifactorial disease associated with a number of genetic, pre-conceptual, nutritional, number of genetic, pre-conceptual, nutritional, neurotoxic, environmental, gastrointestinal, neurotoxic, environmental, gastrointestinal, infectious and autoimmune conditions, requiring infectious and autoimmune conditions, requiring an individualized multi-faceted therapeutic an individualized multi-faceted therapeutic approach.approach.
There are a number of safe and non-invasive There are a number of safe and non-invasive nutritionally-based treatments which may provide nutritionally-based treatments which may provide significant benefits.significant benefits.
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Autism Prevalence Rises to Autism Prevalence Rises to 1 in 110 Children1 in 110 Children
The Centers for Disease Control and The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released Prevention (CDC) recently released a new study stating that autism now a new study stating that autism now affects 1 in every 110 American affects 1 in every 110 American children and 1 in 70 boys. Until children and 1 in 70 boys. Until recently, the CDC had been saying recently, the CDC had been saying autism occurred in 1 in 150 autism occurred in 1 in 150 children. This new research children. This new research confirms that autism is a real crisis confirms that autism is a real crisis and that early intervention services and that early intervention services and state-of-the-art training and and state-of-the-art training and supports are more important than supports are more important than ever.ever.
Source: CDC, January 19, 2010
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Is There an Autism Epidemic?Is There an Autism Epidemic?
A seven-fold increase in autism rates over the A seven-fold increase in autism rates over the last 15 years.last 15 years.
The University of California study suggested The University of California study suggested that there must be something that fetuses and that there must be something that fetuses and children are exposed to at an early age that children are exposed to at an early age that triggers the onset of autism. Potential triggers the onset of autism. Potential environmental causes may include pesticides, environmental causes may include pesticides, viruses, chemical and household cleaners.viruses, chemical and household cleaners.
Source: University of California Study March, 2010
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GeneticsGenetics
The biochemical basis of the disorder is not The biochemical basis of the disorder is not known. It is believed that a variety of known. It is believed that a variety of heritable and non-heritable factors affecting heritable and non-heritable factors affecting the nervous system may be the causethe nervous system may be the cause
Available evidence strongly suggests that Available evidence strongly suggests that genetic factors may play a major rolegenetic factors may play a major role
Epidemiological Review, June 2002.Epidemiological Review, June 2002.
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GeneticsGenetics
Both identical and fraternal twin studies Both identical and fraternal twin studies suggest a concordance rate of 90% and suggest a concordance rate of 90% and 30%, respectively30%, respectively
A 75-fold increase in probability among A 75-fold increase in probability among siblingssiblings
Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, April 2009.Sanford School of Public Policy, Duke University, April 2009.
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PolymorphismsPolymorphismsPolymorphism – a large-scale error in Polymorphism – a large-scale error in
transcription (copying) of the DNA transcription (copying) of the DNA configuration leading to a genetic deviation configuration leading to a genetic deviation (mutation)(mutation)
A variant of a gene called MET doubles the A variant of a gene called MET doubles the risk of autism causing nervous system, risk of autism causing nervous system, digestive and immune system dysfunction digestive and immune system dysfunction (Vanderbilt Kennedy Research Center)(Vanderbilt Kennedy Research Center)
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Pre-conceptual Factors in Pre-conceptual Factors in Transcription ErrorsTranscription Errors
Unhealthful consumptive habits of both parents (diet, Unhealthful consumptive habits of both parents (diet, tobacco, alcohol, recreational or prescription drugs)tobacco, alcohol, recreational or prescription drugs)
Household contaminantsHousehold contaminants
Environmental toxins – pesticides, herbicides, Environmental toxins – pesticides, herbicides, industrial/atmospheric pollutantsindustrial/atmospheric pollutants
Emotional or stress factors – household disharmonyEmotional or stress factors – household disharmony
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Phenol Sulfotransferase Phenol Sulfotransferase Pathway (Pathway (PSTPST))
The PST sulfation pathway is necessary for the The PST sulfation pathway is necessary for the breakdown and removal of certain toxins in breakdown and removal of certain toxins in the body. This includes the processing of a the body. This includes the processing of a type of chemical called a phenol. type of chemical called a phenol.
Phenols are a regular and necessary part of Phenols are a regular and necessary part of life.life.
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Phenols & SalicylatesPhenols & SalicylatesAll foods contain some phenolic compounds. All foods contain some phenolic compounds.
Some foods have a much higher content than others. Some foods have a much higher content than others. If the sulfation pathway is not functioning well, as If the sulfation pathway is not functioning well, as with many children with with many children with autismautism, a person may not be , a person may not be able to process out the phenolic compounds as fast as able to process out the phenolic compounds as fast as they consume them. There is a cumulative effect. they consume them. There is a cumulative effect.
When the phenols start backing up in the system, it can When the phenols start backing up in the system, it can cause a myriad of negative reactions. cause a myriad of negative reactions.
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Faulty Sulfation & DetoxificationFaulty Sulfation & Detoxification
The detoxification pathway processes other The detoxification pathway processes other phenolic compounds including salicylates (a phenolic compounds including salicylates (a subset of phenols), artificial food colorings, subset of phenols), artificial food colorings, artificial flavorings, and some preservatives. artificial flavorings, and some preservatives.
Besides requiring PST, research has found the Besides requiring PST, research has found the salicylates further suppress the activity of any salicylates further suppress the activity of any PST enzyme present, making matters worse. PST enzyme present, making matters worse. Food dyes also have been shown to inhibit the Food dyes also have been shown to inhibit the PST enzymePST enzyme..
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Phenols & SalicylatesPhenols & Salicylates
High phenol foods include: food dyes, High phenol foods include: food dyes, tomatoes, apples, peanuts, bananas, oranges, tomatoes, apples, peanuts, bananas, oranges, cocoa, red grapes, colored fruits and milk.cocoa, red grapes, colored fruits and milk.
Other items to consider are perfumes and Other items to consider are perfumes and fragrances, nitrites and nitrates, monosodium fragrances, nitrites and nitrates, monosodium glutamate (MSG), hydrolized vegetable glutamate (MSG), hydrolized vegetable protein (may contain MSG), sulfites/sulfiting protein (may contain MSG), sulfites/sulfiting agents, benzoates and corn syrup.agents, benzoates and corn syrup.
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The Feingold DietThe Feingold DietThe Feingold list of highly phenolic/high salicylate foods The Feingold list of highly phenolic/high salicylate foods includes: artificial colors and flavors (FD&C colors), includes: artificial colors and flavors (FD&C colors), vanillin, BHA, BHT, TBHQ and some naturals vanillin, BHA, BHT, TBHQ and some naturals flavorings, aspirin and products containing aspirin or flavorings, aspirin and products containing aspirin or salicylic acid, salicylates, almonds, apples, apricots, salicylic acid, salicylates, almonds, apples, apricots, berries (all), cherries, chili powder, cider & cider vinegar berries (all), cherries, chili powder, cider & cider vinegar (apples), cloves, coffee, cucumbers & pickles, currants, (apples), cloves, coffee, cucumbers & pickles, currants, grapes & raisins, nectarines, oranges, paprika, peaches, grapes & raisins, nectarines, oranges, paprika, peaches, peppers (bell & chili), plums, prunes, tangerines, tea, peppers (bell & chili), plums, prunes, tangerines, tea, tomatoes, wine & wine vinegar (grapes), oil of tomatoes, wine & wine vinegar (grapes), oil of wintergreen (methyl salicylate). wintergreen (methyl salicylate).
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Food Allergies and SensitivitiesFood Allergies and Sensitivities
Autistic children have significantly higher levels of food Autistic children have significantly higher levels of food intolerances (especially gluten and casein)intolerances (especially gluten and casein)
IgE testing – Type one sensitivitiesIgE testing – Type one sensitivities
IgG testing – Type two sensitivitiesIgG testing – Type two sensitivities
Marked behavioral improvement after eight weeks on Marked behavioral improvement after eight weeks on elimination dietelimination diet
Journal of The American Dietetic Assn. Feb. 2010Journal of The American Dietetic Assn. Feb. 2010
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Faulty Sulfation & Food Faulty Sulfation & Food SensitivitiesSensitivities
Reduced sulphation has been associated with Reduced sulphation has been associated with inflammation, gut dysfunction and increased inflammation, gut dysfunction and increased permeability. permeability.
Sulphates help to hydrolate* toxins out of your body. If Sulphates help to hydrolate* toxins out of your body. If the body builds up with toxins, the gut can become the body builds up with toxins, the gut can become permeable to indigested peptides from gluten and permeable to indigested peptides from gluten and casein, which then travel to the brain looking like casein, which then travel to the brain looking like pseudo neurotransmitters, but actually acting as opiods.pseudo neurotransmitters, but actually acting as opiods.
*surround toxins with extra water molecules*surround toxins with extra water molecules
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Top Seven Food Allergies Top Seven Food Allergies in Childrenin Children
Over 90 percent of food allergies (or sensitivities), especially in young Over 90 percent of food allergies (or sensitivities), especially in young children, are caused by seven foods:children, are caused by seven foods:
Dairy products Dairy products EggEgg Soy Soy wheat wheat PeanutPeanut Tree nutTree nut ShellfishShellfish
Blood tests and skin prick tests are useful if food allergies are suspected, Blood tests and skin prick tests are useful if food allergies are suspected, but these will unfortunately not provide information about food chemical but these will unfortunately not provide information about food chemical sensitivities or intolerances. The gold standard method of identifying food sensitivities or intolerances. The gold standard method of identifying food chemical sensitivities is through specific IGG food sensitivity tests through chemical sensitivities is through specific IGG food sensitivity tests through a laboratory specializing in food sensitivity testing.a laboratory specializing in food sensitivity testing.
Source: Daniel More, MD, board-certified allergist and clinical immunologist
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Sub-clinical Celiac DiseaseSub-clinical Celiac Disease
WheatWheatSpeltSpeltKamutKamutRyeRyeBarleyBarley
In my practice, if I did nothing more than tell all of In my practice, if I did nothing more than tell all of my patients to avoid gluten containing foods, 2/3 my patients to avoid gluten containing foods, 2/3 would notice a significant improvement in their would notice a significant improvement in their health. With my patients diagnosed with health. With my patients diagnosed with autoimmunity, IBS, chronic fatigue, ADD, ADHD autoimmunity, IBS, chronic fatigue, ADD, ADHD and autism, that percentage may escalate to nearly and autism, that percentage may escalate to nearly 90%.90%.
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Symptoms Associated with Food Symptoms Associated with Food SensitivitiesSensitivities
FatigueFatigue
DepressionDepression
ConstipationConstipation
DiarrheaDiarrhea
HypoglycemiaHypoglycemia
MigrainesMigraines
Weight gainWeight gain
Brain fog/ ADDBrain fog/ ADD
Hyperactivity/ADHDHyperactivity/ADHD
Atopic DermatitisAtopic Dermatitis
Bloating/gastritisBloating/gastritis
Bowel disordersBowel disorders
Gastric refluxGastric reflux
Inflammation/painInflammation/pain
Muscle stiffnessMuscle stiffness
Cognitive declineCognitive decline
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Casein IntoleranceCasein Intolerance
One of the primary proteins in milk and One of the primary proteins in milk and milk products milk products
An inefficiency of the DPP4 enzyme An inefficiency of the DPP4 enzyme results in only a partial breakdown of results in only a partial breakdown of caseincasein
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Dietary Factors in Autism TherapyDietary Factors in Autism Therapy
Gluten-FreeGluten-Free
Casein-FreeCasein-Free6565 33 3232
Dairy-FreeDairy-Free 5050 22 4848
Wheat-FreeWheat-Free 4949 22 4949
Anti-YeastAnti-Yeast 5454 33 4343
Additive-Additive-FreeFree
5454 22 4444
Sugar-FreeSugar-Free 4848 22 5050
Factor % Improved % Deteriorated % No Effect
Information compiled by the Autism Research Institute, Spring 2006
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Why Diet Alone Isn’t EnoughWhy Diet Alone Isn’t Enough
Autistic children are believed to require higher Autistic children are believed to require higher levels of nutrientslevels of nutrients
Higher nutrient levels are not available Higher nutrient levels are not available through diet alonethrough diet alone
American food supply is nutritionally depleted American food supply is nutritionally depleted & devitalized& devitalized
Transport, GMO, hybridization, irradiation, Transport, GMO, hybridization, irradiation, pest control, fertilization, processing, chemical pest control, fertilization, processing, chemical additives, preservation, economicsadditives, preservation, economics
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In terms of nutritional In terms of nutritional abnormalities:abnormalities:
Zinc deficiency exists in 90% of autistic childrenZinc deficiency exists in 90% of autistic children
Copper excess exists in 90% Copper excess exists in 90%
Calcium and magnesium deficiencies are Calcium and magnesium deficiencies are
commoncommon
Omega-3 deficiency exists in nearly 100%Omega-3 deficiency exists in nearly 100%
Fiber deficiency exists in nearly 100%Fiber deficiency exists in nearly 100%
Antioxidant deficiency exists in nearly 100%Antioxidant deficiency exists in nearly 100%
Jeff Bradstreet, M.D., dir. International Child Develop. Resource Jeff Bradstreet, M.D., dir. International Child Develop. Resource Center, 2002Center, 2002
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Common Nutrient Deficiencies and Common Nutrient Deficiencies and Insufficiencies in Autistic ChildrenInsufficiencies in Autistic Children
CalciumCalcium
MagnesiumMagnesium
SeleniumSelenium
Zinc Zinc
IronIron
CysteineCysteine
SulfateSulfate
TaurineTaurine
Omega-3 Fatty AcidsOmega-3 Fatty Acids
Vitamin B-12Vitamin B-12
Vitamin B-6Vitamin B-6
Folic AcidFolic Acid
MethionineMethionine
Vitamin EVitamin E
Vitamin DVitamin D
Vitamin AVitamin A
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Therapeutic InterventionsTherapeutic InterventionsRated by hierarchyRated by hierarchy
DetoxificationDetoxification 7575 33 2222
CalciumCalcium 6262 33 3535
Dig.Dig. EnzymesEnzymes 5858 33 3939
Vitamin CVitamin C 5656 22 4242
Omega-3Omega-3 5454 22 4444
Vitamin B-6Vitamin B-6 5151 1313 3636
ZincZinc 4848 33 4949
Folic AcidFolic Acid 4242 44 5454
ProzacProzac 3737 3333 3030
AdderallAdderall 3434 2626 4040
Therapy % Improved % Deteriorated % No Effect
Source: Autism Research Institute, Spring 2006
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Omega-3s and AutismOmega-3s and AutismOmega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA), especially Omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA), especially
DHA, almost universally recommended for DHA, almost universally recommended for children with autism by integrative children with autism by integrative practitionerspractitioners
Research indicates that children with autism Research indicates that children with autism are deficient in Omega-3 fatty acidsare deficient in Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fats nourish the nervous system and Omega-3 fats nourish the nervous system and brain and reduce inflammation throughout the brain and reduce inflammation throughout the bodybody
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EPA/DHA and AutismEPA/DHA and AutismStudies have also found that fish oil can help with Studies have also found that fish oil can help with behavior, reading and spelling in children with behavior, reading and spelling in children with developmental disorders. This current study was developmental disorders. This current study was designed to see if fish oil capsules (1.5 grams of designed to see if fish oil capsules (1.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids per day) could help children with omega-3 fatty acids per day) could help children with autism. The study had only 13 children who were autism. The study had only 13 children who were about 11 years old. about 11 years old.
All children showed fewer signs of autism when All children showed fewer signs of autism when taking fish oil and the only side effects were some taking fish oil and the only side effects were some mild stomach upset and diarrhea. mild stomach upset and diarrhea.
Biological Psychiatry, April 23, 2007
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Vitamin D and AutismVitamin D and Autism““The dramatic increase in the prevalence The dramatic increase in the prevalence of autism over the last 20 years of autism over the last 20 years corresponds to the deficiency of vitamin corresponds to the deficiency of vitamin D.”D.”
Pregnant and nursing mothers as well as Pregnant and nursing mothers as well as infants need vitamin D, since it acts as a infants need vitamin D, since it acts as a neurohormone stimulating brain neurohormone stimulating brain development and may potentially reduce development and may potentially reduce the risk for autism. the risk for autism.
Dr. John J. Cannell, executive director - Vitamin D Council and a forensic psychiatrist at Atascadero State Hospital in California
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Benefits of Vitamin DBenefits of Vitamin D
Regulates calcium & phosphorusRegulates calcium & phosphorus
Modulates moodModulates mood
Stimulates brain functionStimulates brain function
Regulates immune systemRegulates immune system
Provides chemoprotectionProvides chemoprotection
Promotes cellular differentiationPromotes cellular differentiation
Provides anti-inflammatory effectsProvides anti-inflammatory effects
May offset dangers of mercury toxicityMay offset dangers of mercury toxicity
Regulates blood pressureRegulates blood pressure
Regulates blood sugar levelsRegulates blood sugar levels
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Vitamin D & DosageVitamin D & Dosage
Dose is commensurate with 25-hyroxyvitamin D Dose is commensurate with 25-hyroxyvitamin D levels in bloodlevels in blood
Safe levels for women during pregnancy is 1,000 Safe levels for women during pregnancy is 1,000 to 2,000 i.u.to 2,000 i.u.
Initial one-time dose at birth has been as high as Initial one-time dose at birth has been as high as 200,000 i.u.200,000 i.u.
Michael Holick, M.D., P.HD. Professor of Medicine, Physiology and Biophysics at Boston Michael Holick, M.D., P.HD. Professor of Medicine, Physiology and Biophysics at Boston University School of Medicine University School of Medicine
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Autism and MagnesiumAutism and Magnesium
Magnesium is needed for more than 300 Magnesium is needed for more than 300 biochemical reactions. It is essential for biochemical reactions. It is essential for proper brain and muscle function, as well as proper brain and muscle function, as well as normal growth and development. normal growth and development.
The children with autism have been shown to The children with autism have been shown to have significantly lower levels of magnesium have significantly lower levels of magnesium than children without autism. than children without autism.
Biological Trace Elements Research, December 2006
3939
Magnesium or Ritalin?Magnesium or Ritalin?““Magnesium and vitamin B-6 supplementation Magnesium and vitamin B-6 supplementation has been shown to reduce central nervous has been shown to reduce central nervous system hyper excitability in children*.”system hyper excitability in children*.”
Dosages of 200 to 300 mg of magnesium for Dosages of 200 to 300 mg of magnesium for ASD or ADHD children have profoundly ASD or ADHD children have profoundly demonstrated relief from anxiety, demonstrated relief from anxiety, nervousness, hyperactivity and learning nervousness, hyperactivity and learning capacity. capacity.
*American College of Nutrition, August 2004
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Folic AcidFolic Acid
A mutation in the MTHFR gene may A mutation in the MTHFR gene may contribute to neurological issues, Down’s contribute to neurological issues, Down’s syndrome, memory issues, premature syndrome, memory issues, premature aging and cardiovascular disease*.aging and cardiovascular disease*.
Folic acid must be converted to the active Folic acid must be converted to the active form of methyl folate. A defect in the form of methyl folate. A defect in the MTHFR enzyme will inhibit this conversion MTHFR enzyme will inhibit this conversion contributing to a deficiency in folic acid.contributing to a deficiency in folic acid.
Amy Yasko, N.D., Garry Gordon, M.D.Amy Yasko, N.D., Garry Gordon, M.D.
4141
Methylfolate Methylfolate (5-methyltetrahydrofolate)(5-methyltetrahydrofolate)
Low levels of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the active Low levels of 5-methyltetrahydrofolate, the active form of folic acid, in the spinal fluid of children who form of folic acid, in the spinal fluid of children who had normal neurodevelopment until age 4 to 6 had normal neurodevelopment until age 4 to 6 months was associated with subsequent neurological months was associated with subsequent neurological regression. regression.
The addition of methylfolate as a dietary supplement The addition of methylfolate as a dietary supplement corrected the symptoms. This observed favorable corrected the symptoms. This observed favorable response further supports its central role in at least response further supports its central role in at least some developmental disorders.some developmental disorders.
Neuropediatrics, December 2002
4242
Vitamin and Mineral ImbalancesVitamin and Mineral Imbalances
Most common vitamin deficiencies are folic acid, Most common vitamin deficiencies are folic acid, vitamin B-6 and vitamin B-12vitamin B-6 and vitamin B-12
Most common mineral imbalances are magnesium Most common mineral imbalances are magnesium and a decreased zinc-to-copper ratioand a decreased zinc-to-copper ratio
Vitamin and mineral imbalances are common and can Vitamin and mineral imbalances are common and can be correctedbe corrected
Encouraging scientific confirmationsEncouraging scientific confirmations
4343
Primary Nutritional NeedsPrimary Nutritional NeedsDHA DHA MagnesiumMagnesiumVitamin DVitamin DProbioticsProbioticsZincZincVitamin CVitamin CVitamin EVitamin ECalciumCalciumB VitaminsB Vitamins
4444
Secondary Nutritional NeedsSecondary Nutritional NeedsDigestive EnzymesDigestive Enzymes
TaurineTaurine
Vitamin DVitamin D
SeleniumSelenium
ChromiumChromium
Coenzyme Q10Coenzyme Q10
TMGTMG
TaurineTaurine
MelatoninMelatonin
Methyl B-12Methyl B-12
Methyl folateMethyl folate
IronIron
Milk thistleMilk thistle
Anti-oxidantsAnti-oxidants
N-acetyl cysteineN-acetyl cysteine
ColostrumColostrum
4545
Tertiary Nutritional NeedsTertiary Nutritional NeedsPartial List
Acetyl L-carnitineAcetyl L-carnitine
5-HTP5-HTP
QuercitinQuercitin
Caprylic AcidCaprylic Acid
GarlicGarlic
PhosphatidylcholinePhosphatidylcholine
SAMeSAMe
Activated charcoalActivated charcoal
DMAEDMAE
L-carnosineL-carnosine
DMSADMSA
L-glutamineL-glutamine
MolybdenumMolybdenum
MethionineMethionine
L-theanineL-theanine
InositolInositol
4646
Comprehensive Protocols versus“Single Bullet Cures”
Patient care in a holistically-oriented practice should Patient care in a holistically-oriented practice should have a multi-factorial emphasishave a multi-factorial emphasis
Use a variety of functional assessments to determine the Use a variety of functional assessments to determine the real etiological factors contributing to the patient’s real etiological factors contributing to the patient’s imbalanceimbalance
Select products and therapies that are therapeutically Select products and therapies that are therapeutically inclusiveinclusive
““Human health is more of an ecological function than a Human health is more of an ecological function than a single-bullet function”single-bullet function”
4848
Biochemical IndividualityBiochemical IndividualityThere is no such thing as the average person—we are There is no such thing as the average person—we are all genetically and biochemically unique (Roger all genetically and biochemically unique (Roger Williams, 1956)Williams, 1956)
For optimal function, we each have unique nutritional For optimal function, we each have unique nutritional needs and specific environmental requirements needs and specific environmental requirements (IBID)(IBID)
Utilizing universal protocols may be inappropriate Utilizing universal protocols may be inappropriate unless we access an individual’s specific weaknesses unless we access an individual’s specific weaknesses and requirementsand requirements
5050
Digestive InsufficiencyDigestive Insufficiency Studies confirm high propensity of GIStudies confirm high propensity of GI symptomssymptoms Dysbiosis – abnormal gut floraDysbiosis – abnormal gut flora Pathological bacterial, fungal overgrowthPathological bacterial, fungal overgrowth Parasitic InfectionsParasitic Infections Chronic gastritisChronic gastritis Reflux esophagitisReflux esophagitis Chronic colitis or constipationChronic colitis or constipation Intestinal permeability (leaky gut Intestinal permeability (leaky gut syndrome)syndrome) Frequent antibiotic useFrequent antibiotic use
5151
Neurotoxic FactorsNeurotoxic Factors
Heavy metal toxicity – mercury, lead, cadmiumHeavy metal toxicity – mercury, lead, cadmium
Pesticides, herbicides, PCBs, chemical toxins,Pesticides, herbicides, PCBs, chemical toxins,petrochemicals, food additives, exhaustspetrochemicals, food additives, exhausts
A July 2005 study found over 200 toxic chemicals A July 2005 study found over 200 toxic chemicals in umbilical cord bloodin umbilical cord blood
VaccinationsVaccinations
5252
Infectious Disease and AutismInfectious Disease and Autism
The proven and suspected role of microbes The proven and suspected role of microbes does not stop with physical ailments; does not stop with physical ailments; infections are increasingly being examined infections are increasingly being examined as associated causes of, or possible as associated causes of, or possible contributors to, a variety of serious, chronic contributors to, a variety of serious, chronic neuropsychiatric disorders and to neuropsychiatric disorders and to developmental problems, especially in developmental problems, especially in childrenchildren
Institute of MedicineInstitute of Medicine, June 15, 2004, June 15, 2004
5353
MicrobesMicrobes
Chronic bacterial infectionsChronic bacterial infectionsChronic viral infectionsChronic viral infectionsToxic metals and microbesToxic metals and microbesAluminum binds staphylococcus Aluminum binds staphylococcus
aureusaureusLyme Disease – Autism ConnectionLyme Disease – Autism Connection
5454
The Viral Infection LinkThe Viral Infection Link
Viral infections lead to the increased absorption Viral infections lead to the increased absorption or retention of metals in the bodyor retention of metals in the body
Herpes has been implicated in seizure activityHerpes has been implicated in seizure activity
Retroviruses may be involved in triggering Retroviruses may be involved in triggering asthma and there is an association between autism asthma and there is an association between autism and the presence of family members with asthmaand the presence of family members with asthma
5555
What’s in Our Vaccines?What’s in Our Vaccines?
Ingredients found in some vaccinesIngredients found in some vaccines
AluminumAluminum Polysorbate 20 & 80Polysorbate 20 & 80
Ethyl MercuryEthyl Mercury SucroseSucrose
FormaldehydeFormaldehyde Chicken SerumChicken Serum
MSGMSG Cow SerumCow Serum
PhenoxyethanolPhenoxyethanol Sheep CellsSheep Cells
AntibioticsAntibiotics Mouse ProteinMouse Protein
Source: National Vaccine Information Center
5656
The The DPTDPT Vaccine Vaccine
Diphtheria, Pertussis, TetanusDiphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus
The DPT vaccine is made with toxoid, which is toxin The DPT vaccine is made with toxoid, which is toxin that has been inactivatedthat has been inactivated
Tetanus toxin has been shown to disrupt the Tetanus toxin has been shown to disrupt the production of various neurotransmitters, possibly production of various neurotransmitters, possibly contributing to an excitatory reactioncontributing to an excitatory reaction
5757
Autoimmunity and AutismAutoimmunity and Autism Data supports the notion of local autoimmunity in the Data supports the notion of local autoimmunity in the
gut leading to altered cognitive functioning by a gut leading to altered cognitive functioning by a failure to detoxify neuroactive substances.failure to detoxify neuroactive substances.
There is also an increased prevalence of autoimmune There is also an increased prevalence of autoimmune disorders in families of autistic children.disorders in families of autistic children.
Molecular PsychiatryMolecular Psychiatry, vol. 7, 2002, vol. 7, 2002
5858
Functional AssessmentsFunctional Assessments
Blood Chemistry AnalysisBlood Chemistry AnalysisQuantitative Fluid Quantitative Fluid
AnalysisAnalysisHair Mineral AnalysisHair Mineral AnalysisUrine ProvocationUrine ProvocationSymptom AnalysisSymptom AnalysisLifestyle AnalysisLifestyle AnalysisDietary AnalysisDietary AnalysisMuscle Response TestingMuscle Response TestingAdrenal Response TestingAdrenal Response TestingFood Sensitivity TestingFood Sensitivity TestingNeurotransmitter TestingNeurotransmitter TestingHeart Rate VariabilityHeart Rate VariabilityAmino Acid ProfileAmino Acid Profile
Salivary Hormone TestingSalivary Hormone TestingBlood MicroscopyBlood MicroscopyTongue, Face, Nail, Pulse Tongue, Face, Nail, Pulse
AnalysisAnalysisBlood Pressure TestingBlood Pressure TestingBioimpedenceBioimpedenceFitness AssessmentFitness AssessmentBody MeasurementsBody MeasurementsStructural/Postural Structural/Postural
AssessmentAssessmentPulmonary Function TestPulmonary Function Test Iridology/SclerologyIridology/SclerologyGenetic TestingGenetic Testing
6161
Conventional vs. Nutritional Conventional vs. Nutritional ApproachesApproaches
Drug therapies have been shown to be mostly Drug therapies have been shown to be mostly ineffective for use in the treatment of ASDineffective for use in the treatment of ASD
Dietary therapies, while being controversial, Dietary therapies, while being controversial, do not cause the often unpleasant and do not cause the often unpleasant and sometimes very dangerous side effects sometimes very dangerous side effects associated with drugsassociated with drugs
6262
Symptoms That May Improve Symptoms That May Improve Through Diet ModificationThrough Diet Modification
Inability to concentrateInability to concentrate Eye contact difficultyEye contact difficulty Aggression and hyperactivityAggression and hyperactivity Digestive complaintsDigestive complaints Poor language skillsPoor language skills Sleep difficultiesSleep difficulties Difficulties in ADLsDifficulties in ADLs Atopic dermatitis, urticaria, rosaceaAtopic dermatitis, urticaria, rosacea Aberrant behaviorAberrant behavior
6363
Nutritional ScreeningNutritional Screening
Simple hair, blood, urine, stool assessments Simple hair, blood, urine, stool assessments can determine levels of:can determine levels of:
Vitamins – A, folic acid, B-12Vitamins – A, folic acid, B-12 Mineral levels – calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, ironMineral levels – calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, iron
Toxic metals – lead, mercury, aluminum, cadmium, etc.Toxic metals – lead, mercury, aluminum, cadmium, etc.
Other nutrients – EFAs, amino acids, protein, enzymesOther nutrients – EFAs, amino acids, protein, enzymes
6464
Immune DysregulationImmune Dysregulation
Simple hair, blood, urine, stool assessments Simple hair, blood, urine, stool assessments can also determine levels of:can also determine levels of:
High yeastHigh yeastBacterial metabolitesBacterial metabolitesHigh viral titersHigh viral titersAutoantibodiesAutoantibodiesNK cell activityNK cell activityImmunoglobulinsImmunoglobulins
6565
Where to Begin?Where to Begin?
4-Rs4-Rs
RealizeRealize
RemoveRemove
ReplenishReplenish
RepairRepair
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RealizeRealize
Request a Broad Range Functional AssessmentRequest a Broad Range Functional Assessment
CBC, CMP, Urinalysis, Thyroid, Vitamin DCBC, CMP, Urinalysis, Thyroid, Vitamin D Premier Autism panelPremier Autism panel Urine, Hair, Fecal metal panelUrine, Hair, Fecal metal panel Plasma amino acidsPlasma amino acids Plasma fatty acidsPlasma fatty acids Genetic testingGenetic testing Urine metabolic analysis/organic acidsUrine metabolic analysis/organic acids Comprehensive digestive stool analysisComprehensive digestive stool analysis IgG/IgE food antibody testingIgG/IgE food antibody testing
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RemoveRemove
Eliminate sugars, junk foods, preservatives, Eliminate sugars, junk foods, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, artificial colors, artificial sweeteners, artificial colors, preservatives, refined flours, sugared soft drinks preservatives, refined flours, sugared soft drinks and food sensitivitiesand food sensitivities
Eliminate toxins in water supply, foods, home Eliminate toxins in water supply, foods, home (mold, dust mites, asbestos, lead paint, carpets, (mold, dust mites, asbestos, lead paint, carpets, etc.)etc.)
Air purification systemAir purification system
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ReplenishReplenish
Organic Whole Foods Organic Whole Foods Beneficial Flora (Probiotics, Fermented Beneficial Flora (Probiotics, Fermented
Foods)Foods)EnzymesEnzymesNutrients – vitamins/mineralsNutrients – vitamins/mineralsEssential Fatty AcidsEssential Fatty AcidsBotanicalsBotanicalsFiberFiber
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RepairRepair
AntimicrobialsAntimicrobialsAntifungalsAntifungalsAntiviralsAntiviralsAntibacterialsAntibacterialsImmunotherapyImmunotherapyDetoxificationDetoxificationFunctional Restoration (physical, neurological, Functional Restoration (physical, neurological, psychological and nutritional)psychological and nutritional)
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SummarySummaryAutism spectrum disorder is a complex mutifaceted, Autism spectrum disorder is a complex mutifaceted,
multifactorial diseasemultifactorial disease
Each individual case must be assessed on the specific Each individual case must be assessed on the specific imbalances and deficienciesimbalances and deficiencies
Functional testing should be comprehensive and Functional testing should be comprehensive and relevantrelevant
Single-bullet “cures” are not generally successful Single-bullet “cures” are not generally successful
ASD requires a holistic broad-spectrum approachASD requires a holistic broad-spectrum approach
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SummarySummaryDietary choices may be a critical component toward Dietary choices may be a critical component toward
improvementimprovement
Food allergens/sensitivities should be determined and Food allergens/sensitivities should be determined and eliminatedeliminated
Supplements should be chosen on the basis of need and Supplements should be chosen on the basis of need and taken in the appropriate dosage and form in each casetaken in the appropriate dosage and form in each case
Integrating consistent, conventional and holistic Integrating consistent, conventional and holistic approaches will yield the best possible opportunities for approaches will yield the best possible opportunities for improvementimprovement
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SummarySummary
A diagnosis of autism is a call to arms for A diagnosis of autism is a call to arms for an entire familyan entire family
The most effective treatment is creating a The most effective treatment is creating a consciousness of emotional, physical and consciousness of emotional, physical and nutritional wellness for the entire familynutritional wellness for the entire family