Biomedical Therapies for Autism

Gluten-free Diets, Vitamins, Antifungals and Enzymes

Jan 9, 2008 Melissa Hincha-Ownby

Biomedical treatments provide an alternative, and promising, approach to addressing concerns related to autism spectrum disorders.

There are numerous conventional and alternative therapy approaches to autism spectrum disorders. Many individuals look to biomedical treatments with hopes of recovering from autism. The realm of biomedical intervention can be confusing; the following treatment types are the most commonly used biomedical approaches.

Gluten and Casein Free Diet

Many individuals that begin biomedical treatments for autism start with the gluten and casein free diet. Gluten is a component found in many grains including wheat and rye. Casein is found in all dairy products. Additionally, gluten and casein are also found in a wide variety of other foods. It is believed that individuals with autism have gastrointestinal issues that prevent the body from properly processing gluten and casein which leads to behavioral issues. Eliminating gluten and casein can eliminate the undesirable behaviors.

Vitamin Supplementation

Studies have shown that individuals with autism are deficient in several key vitamins and nutrients. Methyl B-12, delivered via injection, is believed to bring glutathione to a normal level. Glutathione allows the body to detoxify from heavy metals and other toxic substances found in the body. If glutathione levels are low then the body is unable to detoxify sufficiently which leads to autistic-like behaviors. Regulating the glutathione rectifies this problem.

Another commonly used supplement is essential fatty acids (EFAs). EFAs, like Omega-3 fatty acids and Omega-6 fatty acids, are found naturally in the human diet. The standard American diet includes a disproportionate amount of Omega-6s so supplementing Omega-3s through the use of oil can prove beneficial; cod liver oil and flaxseed oil are two of the more commonly used EFAs.

Antifungals

Yeast overgrowth is believed to be a problem among those with autism who also have gastrointestinal problems. Yeast overgrowth can cause a variety of behavioral problems among the autistic population; allergies, inability to potty train, and eczema have all been linked to yeast overgrowth.

Enzymes

The use of enzymes is also tied in with gastrointestinal problems among those on the autism spectrum. Supplementing with enzymes helps the body break down and process certain nutrients. Properly digested nutrients can lead to a healthier gastrointestinal system.

The use of biomedical treatments can be controversial. However, prominent organizations are now frequently providing support for biomedical research. Individuals who are interested in finding out more about biomedical therapy would benefit from contacting a DAN doctor. Defeat Autism Now (DAN) is a project of the Autism Research Institute and is leading the push for wider acceptance of biomedical approaches. Always consult your doctor before making any healthcare decisions.

For other autism therapy ideas read Autism Therapy Choices and Sensory Integration and Autism.

Source:

Autism Research Institute

The copyright of the article Biomedical Therapies for Autism in Autism/Asperger's Syndrome is owned by Melissa Hincha-Ownby. Permission to republish Biomedical Therapies for Autism in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Vitamin Supplementation is Common with Autism.