11

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

22

Glenn B. Gero, P.D.

PHYSIOLOGICAL DETECTIVE

33

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.

44

Check Engine LightCheck Engine Light

Should We Treat the Symptom or Find Should We Treat the Symptom or Find the Cause?the Cause?

55

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.

66

Multifactorial?Multifactorial?

77

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

88

cc

99

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

1010

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.

1111

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.

1212

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)

1313

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

1414

1515

Affects of Faulty SulfationAffects of Faulty Sulfation

1616

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.

  

1717

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. 

1818

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..

1919

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.

2020

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).

2121

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

2222

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

2323

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

2424

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%.

2525

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

2626

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

2727

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

2828

Supplementation TherapySupplementation Therapy

Diet Alone Isn’t EnoughDiet Alone Isn’t Enough

2929

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

3030

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

3131

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

3232

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

3333

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

3434

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

3535

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

3636

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

3737

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

3838

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

4040

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”

4747

Beware of Clinical MyopiaBeware of Clinical Myopia

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

4949

Always look for the connections andthe underlying causes

Fill the Bucket and

Stop the Leak

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

5959

Then Connect the DotsThen Connect the Dots

Look for Continuity

and Patterns of Imbalance

6060

Protocols should be

both

Individualized

&

Condition Specific

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

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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

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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

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Thank YouThank You