Autism is not a disease but rather a syndrome. As of today, no one knows exactly the cause of this growing disorder, but science points to many different causes rather than a single one.  It is very important to identify the various causes of autism as in some individuals, biomedical or dietary intervention can yields impressive results, as in other individuals, other treatment options could be more effective.

4 potential causes of Autism that can benefit from a biomedical intervention

PKU

One of the many conditions associated with autism symptoms is phenylketonuria (PKU), a disorder that affects the ability to break down the amino acid called phenylalanine. This disease is easily screened and can be completely prevented by an appropriate dietary approach.  As phenylalanine is found in milk, eggs and other common foods, children with autism symptoms that are caused by PKU can benefit from following a special diet as well as taking Omega-3 supplements, iron and carnitine.

Purines metabolism disorders

Purines are natural substances found in body’s cells and in virtually all foods. They provide part of the chemical structure of human, plant and animal genes. However, only a small number of foods contain concentrated amounts of them.  Some children showing autism symptoms have a purine metabolism disorder. In those individuals, identifying the enzyme deficiency and adopting a special diet could yield interesting benefits.

Carbohydrate metabolism disorders

There are a number of children with autism that have carbohydrate metabolism difficulties. Some of those autistic children may respond to a special diet limited in carbs and with vitamin B supplements.

Toxic exposures

Several chemicals can have an effect on the central nervous system, producing autistic symptoms.  Toxic exposures, such as heavy metal toxicity, could play an important role in the symptoms of certain autistic children. Chelation and detoxification support supplements could benefit those children.

It’s clear that there are many metabolic causes playing a role in autism symptoms, and the ones cited above are just a few of them.  If you think that your child could benefit from a biomedical approach, please talk to your DAN! doctor or another qualified health professional.

Reference: AUTISM: BIOMEDICAL PERSPECTIVES Audrius V. Plioplys, MD, FRCPC Autism Clinic, Children's Brain Research Clinic Washington, D. C.