What is autism
ASD
The term "autism" originates from the Greek word "autos," meaning "self." It was first used in the 1940s by Leo Kanner to describe children with unique behavioral patterns and profound difficulties in forming social relationships. At the same time, Hans Asperger identified a similar condition in children with average or above-average intelligence, which later became known as Asperger’s Syndrome and is now included under the broader ASD umbrella.
According to the DSM-5, core diagnostic criteria for ASD include:
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Persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, including difficulties in emotional reciprocity, nonverbal communicative behaviors, and developing, maintaining, and understanding relationships.
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Restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities, such as stereotyped movements or speech, insistence on sameness, highly restricted interests, and hyper- or hyporeactivity to sensory input.
Symptoms must be present in the early developmental period and must significantly impair daily functioning.
Previously distinct subtypes like Asperger’s Syndrome and PDD-NOS are now classified under the single diagnosis of ASD in DSM-5.
Recent scientific research indicates that ASD has biological underpinnings beyond behavioral symptoms. In addition to genetic factors, studies have identified links to immune system dysregulation, chronic inflammation, gastrointestinal issues, mitochondrial dysfunction, impaired detoxification, and nutritional imbalances. Common comorbidities include anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory processing difficulties, and epilepsy.
International clinical literature emphasizes the long-term impact of ASD diagnosis across the lifespan. Individuals with ASD often require extensive rehabilitation and ongoing support, and their families frequently need systemic assistance. While early diagnosis rates have improved, there remains a critical need for multidisciplinary intervention programs that integrate education, healthcare, and community services.
Surveys show substantial gaps in support services for adults with ASD, especially in employment and independent living. Only a small percentage receive adequate occupational placement, and many capable individuals remain outside the workforce due to systemic barriers.
Research highlights increasing stress and anxiety levels among caregivers of children with ASD, particularly when comprehensive support is lacking. Experts emphasize the importance of addressing not just the child’s needs, but also the wellbeing of the entire family.
In parallel with conventional medical approaches, biomedical and nutritional strategies have emerged. These aim to identify and address underlying biochemical imbalances through advanced testing, personalized diets, targeted supplementation, herbal remedies, and sometimes homeopathy. This integrative model is inspired by protocols such as the ARI (formerly DAN!) biomedical framework, focusing on restoring physiological balance to enhance developmental outcomes.
Nutritional therapy is not intended to replace behavioral or communication-based interventions but to complement them by reducing physiological stressors that may exacerbate symptoms. In many cases, restoring internal balance results in notable improvements in sleep, digestion, mood regulation, attention, and even language development.
Recent studies worldwide support the integration of functional medical evaluations and tailored educational programs to optimize developmental progress. Children receiving comprehensive care—including personalized nutrition and diagnostic analysis—report significant relief from issues like irritability, gastrointestinal distress, sensory dysregulation, and sleep problems.
The expanded recognition of sensory difficulties in DSM-5 reflects a growing understanding of ASD’s complexity and the necessity for holistic support. The frequent presence of co-occurring conditions such as ADHD, learning disabilities, chronic inflammation, and anxiety further underscores the need for a wide-ranging, precision-based medical approach.
For additional information, consult resources from the CDC, the American Psychiatric Association, peer-reviewed medical journals, and clinical summaries that address ASD across the lifespan.
It is essential that any therapeutic intervention be guided by certified professionals and tailored to the individual needs of each child and their family.
Science-based natural treatment
Senior Naturopath
Has extensive training and extensive experience
My name is Netta Pelleg-Gerad, and through my personal journey, I chose to specialize in natural treatment for autism and developmental delays.
I completed advanced training with an American physician specializing in autism through functional medicine, and from that knowledge I developed the "Growing Forward" ("Advancing") Process — designed to help children realize their developmental potential by improving their physiological, emotional, and physical well-being.
I am a senior naturopath with a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Sciences and a master’s degree in Business Administration, both from Ben-Gurion University.
According to parent reports, 86% of children who completed the Growing Forward process improved in areas such as:
language, communication, emotional regulation, sleep, digestive health, and nutrition —
with over 70% showing significant improvement.