ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder)
What is ASD?
It's a cognitive development disorder
Characterize by difficulties in learning ability and development
It's a condition that involves challenges in social interaction, speech and nonverbal communication, and restricted/repetitive behaviors
The effect of ASD and the severity of symptoms are different in each person
Symptoms
Hyper active, impulsive and inattentive behavior
Delayed language and movement skills
Unusual eating and sleeping habits
Unsual mood or emotional reactions
Biochemical treatment
Dysfunction in the redox metabolism
Tetrahydrobiopterin (BH4) metabolism
BH4 occurs naturally in the tissues of our body. It is so interrelated to various processes in our bodies that, if the redox metabolism is affected, there is a good chance this is also impacted. If there’s a genetic deficiency in this molecule, it can cause neurological abnormalities
Treatment with sapropterin improves redox metabolism and alters any abnormality in autistic children. This treatment is shown to improve communication, cognitive ability, adaptability, social ability, and verbal expression in individuals with autism, mainly those five years of age and with relatively higher functioning.
Natural or biological and artificial processes of life rely on redox reductions as a main source of energy. Various studies state that some autistic children have an abnormal redox metabolism.
Treatments for dysfunction in redox metabolism include complex treatment containing a vitamin and mineral supplement that includes antioxidants, co-enzyme Q10, B vitamins, and tetrahydrobiopterin. Other treatments that have antioxidant properties like carnosine have been said to improve behaviors and mitochondrial functioning.
Alternative treatment
Sensory Therapy
Diets
Yeast-free diet (eliminates yeast and sugar)
Specific carbohydrate diet (removes specific carbohydrates, including all grains, lactose, and sucrose)
Feingold diet (eliminates additives and chemicals)
Gluten-free diet (gluten is a protein found in many grains; this diet eliminates such grains)
Casein-free diet (casein is a protein found in milk; this diet eliminates milk and all by-products of milk)
According to the Interactive Autism Network (IAN), these diets include:5
Special diets for autism have been popular for many years. However, there is a lack of compelling research surrounding nutrition and autism.
In 2013, the criteria for autism spectrum disorder changed to include sensory challenges, which are defined as over- and under-responsiveness to lights, sound, touch, etc. Sensory challenges can be a major problem for children during the school day, for example.
Sensory integration therapy is an outgrowth of occupational therapy. Sensory therapies can include the use of weighted vests, sensory "diets" which include brushing and joint compression, as well as sessions with a licensed therapist.
Eastern and Wholistic Therapies
Most hospitals and clinics now recommend a range of complementary options for any patient with issues related to anxiety, stress, and/or sleeplessness.2
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Some of the more popular options for both children and adults with autism include:
Yoga
Mindfulness meditation
Craniosacral manipulation
Acupuncture/acupressure
Reiki