Autism is a developmental disorder usually diagnosed in early childhood that can manifest in a diverse set of symptoms that range from social and language communication problems, including chronic isolation and lack of verbal response, to mood and behavior disorders that result in aggression, irritability and self-injury.

Autism is more prevalent than previously thought. A recent editorial in the Journal of Pediatrics reported that the condition "appears to be undergoing an almost epidemic increase." Formerly conceived as a "rare condition" that affected only 4 out of every 10,000 children, in recent times the rate has been estimated at nearly 100-fold greater, approaching 1 in100 children or even higher.1

Although the precise cause of autism not known, many theories now link the condition to early neurocognitive damage in the brain. Immune dysfunction, toxic exposure, gastrointestinal abnormalities, dietary habits and other factors could interact with various environmental and genetic influences to play a role in autism pathogenesis. Yet because there are many types of autism, ranging widely in their characteristic patterns, each specific case may have a unique set of biochemical factors contributing to the onset and severity of symptoms.

Great Smokies has created the Autism Resource Center (ARC) web site for both parents and practitioners as an extensive library of information on autism and autistic-spectrum disorders.

The following functional assessments can provide important clues for developing effective customized treatment strategies for each individual.

Autism and Element Imbalances: Exposure to heavy metal toxins, especially when combined with nutrient mineral deficiencies, pose a threat to the healthy neurological development of children.

Autism and Amino Acids: These basic building blocks of proteins form neurotransmitters in the brain that regulate mood and behavior.

Autism and Digestive Function: Autistic children often exhibit chronic digestive problems that are linked to changes in mood and behavior.

Autism and Intestinal Permeability: Many autistic children have "leaky gut," a condition which may increase their body's toxic burden and make them more prone to antibody responses to various environmental antigens.

Autism and Essential Fatty Acids: Significant imbalances of fatty acids in red blood cell membranes have been reported in patients with autism and other similar neuropsychiatric disorders.

Autism and Detoxification: An inability to properly detoxify harmful environmental substances could play an important role in autism.

Autism and Food Sensitivities: Many caregivers of autistic children report a worsening in symptoms after the children eat certain foods.

Autism and Melatonin: Autistic individuals with chronic sleep problems may have a circadian hormone imbalance.

References:
1 Accardo P. Zebras in the living room: The changing faces of autism [Editorial]. J Pediatr 1999;135(5):533-535.

Call to set up a nutritional consultation so that tests can be performed and a comprehensive strategy of lifestyle, dietary modification and nutrient supplementation can be implemented to aid you in reversing this disorder.

For an appointment, contact our office at: 800-956-7083 and visit our web site www.completehealth institute.com go to lab tests and click on appropriate test for information.

Dr. Rispoli, Ph.D., L Ac. has had a clinical practice for over 20 years. Her programs work because she is so thorough in testing and providing a nutritional approach. Remember that the body can heal itself if given the proper nutrients.