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The reasons and components of treatment for promoting children with autism or developmental delay
According to the functional medicine method
The causes of autism spectrum disorder are still being studied. What is already known today is that they are complex and interrelated. For each child, we may see a slightly different "puzzle of causes," but the main components of that puzzle can be outlined based on current knowledge and according to the principles of functional medicine, which is the approach I use in treatment:
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Nutritional deficiencies – Deficiencies in vitamins (such as folic acid), minerals (such as zinc, iron, magnesium), or micronutrients (such as lithium) prevent the child from reaching their developmental potential.
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Molds and toxins – Molds such as Candida and toxins like pesticides sprayed in the environment enter the body mainly through the respiratory system and can take hold and multiply, producing toxins internally that affect development and behavior.
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Intestinal pathogens – Bacteria like Clostridia produce toxins that enter the brain via the vagus nerve. This often results in autism-related symptoms such as lack of social engagement, aggression, self-injury, tics, and behavioral issues. Digestive symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, gas, and abdominal pain—caused by gut imbalances (dysbiosis), inflammation, or leaky gut—are frequently linked to developmental disorders and autism.
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Heavy metals – Heavy metals such as mercury and lead, or toxic metals like aluminum, can easily enter the body. In some children (sometimes due to genetic mutations affecting detox pathways), these metals are not effectively eliminated and may reach the brain. Their accumulation impacts the central nervous system and development.
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Cellular energy production – Problems with energy production in the cells, as well as insufficient production of the antioxidant glutathione, can affect essential processes such as cell communication, neurotransmitter activity, and nervous system function.
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Genetics – Genetic mutations related to communication, stress regulation, toxin elimination, sensitivity to substances or touch, and allergy tendencies—especially when combined with other factors—can increase the risk of developmental delays and autism.
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Inappropriate nutrition – Selective eating accompanied by nutrient deficiencies (e.g., omega-3, protein, cholesterol), consumption of foods the child is sensitive to (e.g., dairy, gluten), and a diet high in low-nutrient processed foods (e.g., sweets and snacks) contribute to the child’s health and development.
The components of the naturopathic treatment method called "functional medicine" for autism and developmental delay:
Correction of Nutritional Deficiencies – Nutrition is the “fuel” for the body and brain. The more appropriate the “fuel” is for the child, the more the body will have the necessary components for development and progress. Precision in nutrition and finding creative ways to incorporate healthy foods are key parts of the therapeutic process.
Nutritional Adaptation – Many children with autism are hypersensitive to harmful substances such as stabilizers, artificial colors, and flavorings, and avoiding them can improve their condition. Another aspect is avoiding foods the child is sensitive to, such as dairy and gluten. This can be assessed using advanced lab tests.
Improvement of Digestive Function – Many children with developmental delays or autism suffer from visible or hidden digestive issues. Sometimes this manifests as constipation, diarrhea, or alternating between the two, excessive gas, and abdominal pain. Treating the digestive system with herbal remedies and homeopathy not only reduces symptoms but also helps the child absorb nutrients better, eliminate toxins more effectively, produce neurotransmitters synthesized in the gut, and feel better physically and emotionally—allowing space for development.
Treatment of Gut Pathogens – Intestinal pathogens such as Clostridia bacteria can cause inflammation, leaky gut, food sensitivities, and allergies. This inflammation often affects nervous system development and leads to symptoms like lack of social interaction and tantrums. Treating gut pathogens using herbal medicine, quality probiotics, and homeopathy reduces gastrointestinal inflammation and improves the physical and emotional functioning of the nervous system.
Enhancing Cellular Energy Production – Strengthening cellular energy production using antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals helps reduce physical and emotional fatigue, improves neural communication, supports brain development, helps the child cope with discomfort (like heat), promotes greater physical activity, and raises neurotransmitter levels and brain blood pressure (sometimes abnormally low), enhancing coordination and other vital processes.
Heavy Metal Detoxification – A heavy load of toxic metals in the body can impair nervous system function and cause symptoms like poor social communication and cognitive difficulties. Gentle, gradual detoxification can reduce this environmental burden and support improved brain function and general development.
Treatment of Molds and Environmental Toxins – Candida overgrowth (unwanted fungal proliferation in the digestive tract) and environmental toxins such as glyphosate (a common pesticide in Israel) burden the body, cause inflammation and allergies, and can affect brain function and development. Avoiding exposure and treating these toxins using herbal medicine, homeopathy, and gentle detox protocols brings the body to a healthier state, thereby supporting better functioning and developmental progress.
Sources:
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A Spectrum of Solutions: Unveiling Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Manage Autism Spectrum Disorder
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The Role of Gluten in Autism
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Gut Microbiota in Autism and Mood Disorders
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Human Gut Microbiota from Autism Spectrum Disorder Promote Behavioral Symptoms in Mice
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Prenatal and Postnatal Exposure to Acetaminophen in Relation to Autism Spectrum and ADHD Symptoms: Meta-Analysis in Six European Cohorts
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Folinic Acid Improves Verbal Communication in Children with Autism and Language Impairment: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial
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The Use of Biomarkers Associated with Leaky Gut as a Diagnostic Tool for Early Intervention in ASD: A Systematic Review
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Mitochondrial Dysfunction in ASD: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis