Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is diagnosed on the basis of behavioral parameters, yet there are many underlying biomedical factors which can contribute to these symptoms. Therapies directed at these underlying factors may be helpful in decreasing symptoms of autism. For example, recent studies have found chronic inflammation in the brains of children with autism, raising the possibility that treatments directed against inflammation may be helpful.

The Autism Research Institute asked parents to rate the effectiveness of numerous biomedical treatments. As of 2008, over 26,000 parents had evaluated more than 80 interventions. Detoxification was considered helpful by 74% of parents. Other highly rated therapies included gluten/casein-free diet, food allergy treatment, methylcobalamin, and essential fatty acid therapy. It is thought that the earlier treatment is started, the better the results.

Gluten-Free and Casein-Free Preparations

Children with autism may benefit from a gluten-free and casein-free diet. Many commonly used medications contain gluten. Some probiotics contain casein. We can compound preparations that are free of gluten and casein to solve problems for sensitive individuals.

Therapy for Gut Dysbiosis

Autistic children frequently have abnormalities in gut permeability, defects or deficiencies in intestinal enzymes, and/or abnormal intestinal flora. Yeast overgrowth can be prevented or treated by oral administration of Lactobacillus or other probiotics. If response is insufficient, oral antifungals may be needed. Prescription medications can be compounded for oral administration to help reduce yeast in the gut.

Compromised digestive function, often secondary to inflammation of the bowel, may lead to the absorption of toxins (“leaky gut”). Children can benefit from balanced nutrition, treatment of imbalanced gut flora, and enhancement of immune function.

Nutritional Therapy for Autism

Most children with autism have a need for increased amounts of vitamins, minerals, and some amino acids. Some detoxification agents may remove essential minerals, creating a need for additional minerals. Vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium are often needed in addition to a broad-spectrum vitamin/mineral supplement. Copper should be avoided in many cases, since the levels in autistic children are sometimes high. Amino acid, nutritional, and supplemental therapies can be customized for each child. Once the physician has determined the specific nutrients that are needed, compatible supplements can be combined in flavored suspensions to simplify administration.

Many children with autism are zinc deficient. Zinc deficiency affects taste perception and children then become averse to eating certain foods and taking supplements. In this case, transdermal preparations can be very helpful by completely bypassing the oral route of administration. Commonly needed nutrients which can easily be given in a transdermal form include vitamin A, vitamin D, and zinc.

Glutathione is the major antioxidant in cells and is important for detoxification and elimination of environmental toxins. Its active form is reduced in about 80 percent of autistic children. Oxidative stress, a suspected contributor in many disease processes like heart disease and cancer, also plays a role in autism, and occurs when antioxidants are not present in sufficient levels to clear the body of free radicals. Free radicals can damage cells in the brain, gastrointestinal tract and immune system. Children with low glutathione levels may be more vulnerable to this damage, so supplementation with oral or transdermal glutathione and other antioxidants may be beneficial.

Methylcobalamin – Vitamin methyl-B12 helps support the methylation pathway, which is important for detoxification. This pathway is often not working optimally in children with ASD.

Melatonin appears to be a safe and well-tolerated treatment for insomnia in children with ASD.

Detoxification (including chelation)

Some children with autism may suffer from heavy metal toxicity, and may potentially benefit from therapies which support detoxification. Some may also benefit from chelation (removal of heavy metals). Oral DMSA (dimercaptosuccinic acid) is approved by the FDA for treating lead poisoning in children as young as one year of age. It has also been demonstrated to be able to bind and remove a wide range of toxic metals, including mercury, arsenic, tin, nickel, and antimony. Oral DMSA has been used off-label for this purpose. It is important to monitor kidney and liver function and complete blood counts when using DMSA, and although rare, serious side effects may occur.

Please note: These therapies have not been approved by the FDA for the treatment of autism, and should be used only under direct supervision of an experienced and knowledgeable health care professional after parents or guardians have received adequate information and given consent.