Autism
Synopsis
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
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 this condition.
alpha lipoic acid
ashwagandha
curcumin
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
green tea
l-theanine
magnesium
melatonin
omega-3 fatty acids
selenium
zinc
vitamin D
vitamin B6
vitamin C
2-Fucosyllactose
Algal Oil
Amino Acid (unspecified)
amino acids
Aniracetam
2′-Fucosyllactose (2′-FL)
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
Acetyl-L-Carnitine Arginate
Alpha lactalbumin
Amino Acid Blend/Complex
Astragalin
Bacillus (unspecified)
Bacteria (unspecified)
Beta Hydroxybutyrate
Beta-hydroxybutyrate
Bifidobacteria
Bifidobacteria (unspecified)
Bifidobacterium (various species)
bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium breve
Bifidobacterium infantis
bifidobacterium infantis
bifidobacterium longum
Bifidobacterium longum
Bifobacterium (mixed)
acetyl l-carnitine
Acetyl L-Carnitine Arginate
Acetyl L-Tyrosine
Alpha-Lipoic Acid
Bacopa monnieri
Carnitine
choline
citicoline
DHA
DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid)
DHEA
EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
Folic Acid
folate
Glutathione
Glycine
inositol
l-carnitine
l-taurine
Magnesium Taurinate
N-Acetyl Cysteine
phosphatidylserine
Probiotics
SAM-e
Serotonin
Vitamin B9
vitamin E
Biogenic amine (unspecified)
Biopterin
Blend (Fatty Acid or Fat/Oil Supplement)
blend (herb/botanical)
botanical (unspecified)
branched chain amino acids
Branched-Chain Amino Acids
5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine
Acetyl-l-glutathione
Acetylcholine
Bacillus (mixed)
Bacteria
Bifidobacterium adolescentis
Blend (Amino Acid/Protein)
Blend (combination)
blend (herb/botanical)
Branched Chain Amino Acids
butyrate triglyceride
butyric acid
Cannabidiol
Cannabigerol
Caprylic acid triglycerides
Casein Glycomacropeptide
Clostridium butyricum
creatine monohydrate
Cysteine
Cysteine compounds (unspecified)
Delivery system
DHA (docosahexaeonic acid)
DHA-conjugated phosphatidylserine
Dimethylglycine
Dimethylglycine
DMG (Dimethylglycine)
Docosahexaenoic Acid
Dopamine
Fatty acids
Fish Oil
Fish Oil
Flavor/Color (Natural & Artificial)
Folinic Acid
food additive (unspecified)
Free Form Amino Acid
Glutamate
Glutamic Acid
Glutamine
Glutamine precursor (unspecified)
Glycine
Goat milk protein
Hemp oil
Ketone
ketone (unspecified)
Ketone Salts
l-5-methyltetrahydrofolate glucosamine salt (5-MTHF)
L-Acetyl n-Cysteine
l-carnosine
l-glycine
l-serine
L-Serine
L-Taurine
L-Tryptophan
l-tryptophan
Lactobacillus reuteri
lactobacillus reuteri
Magnesium Beta-Hydroxybutyrate
MCT / Medium Chain Triglycerides
Medium Chain Triglycerides
Medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
medium chain triglycerides (MCT)
Melatonin
Melatonin
Methylcobalamin
Methylcobalamin Dicalcium Phosphate
N-Acetyl Cysteine
N-Acetyl Neuraminic acid
N-acetylcysteine
N-acetylneuraminic acid
Omega-3
Omega-3 fatty acids
Oxytocin
phosphatidyl inositol
phosphatidyl inositol
Phosphatidylinostol
phytocannabinoids
Piracetam
Pituitary
Placental protein
Plankton (unspecified)
plant (unspecified)
prolyl endopeptidase (PEP)
Proprietary Blend (Dietary substance used by man to supplement the diet by increasing the total diet
Proprietary Blend (Herb/Botanical)
pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P)
Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Saturated Fatty Acid (unspecified)
Schizochytrium
Serine
Serine
Sialic acid
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Benzoate
Sodium Butyrate
Sodium decanoate
Stem Cells
Sulforaphane
sulforaphane glucosinolate
Sulforophane
Sulphoraphane
Taurine
Tetrahydrocannabivarin
Total Fat
Trehalose
trehalose
triglyceride
Uridine monophosphate
Venus's Fly Trap
Vitamin B
Vitamin B12 (Hydroxycobalamin)
Vitamin B6 (not specified)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5 phosphate)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5-phosphate)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxamine)
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)
Vitamin B6 (unspecified)
Vitamin B6 (various)
Vitamin B9 (calcium methylfolate)
Vitamin B9 (folinic acid)
Vitamin B9 (folinic acid)
Vitamin B9 (methylfolate)
Vitamin B9 (methyltetrahydrofolate)
Vitamin C (sodium ascorbate)
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol succinate)
Zinc
Zinc magnesium aspartate