A New Year & a New Autism Model Is Emerging

A New Year & a New Autism Model Is Emerging

Autistic spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that is characterized by malfunctions in social interaction, communication, behavioral stereotypes, and a range of cognitive deficits. These impairments are believed to come about as a result of a neural network disturbance during pre-or postnatal development. A new autism model is emerging that is shifting the belief that this condition is a result of something genetically predetermined and hard wired in the brain to being viewed as the result of a multitude of processes actively taking place.

Currently, the autism spectrum disorder category includes:

• Autistic disorder (also called “classic” autism)
• Asperger syndrome
• Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (or atypical autism)

Research conducted into the cause of autism include genetic and epigenetic factors, environmental toxicity, errors in metabolism, disturbances in cell membrane integrity/stability, endocrine, hepatic, and neurotransmitter regulation. In the past 20-30 years, there appears to be a substantial increase in the prevalence of ASD. However, it is important to consider that there may have been an improvement in the diagnostic tools nowadays and specialists are becoming better at identifying cases. Regardless of what things may be, it is time to discard the archaic model that ASD cannot be treated and recovery is impossible. Dr. Patricia Kane, creator of “The Membrane Stabilizing Protocol Diet”, described ASD as a disruption of cellular lipid metabolism. By carefully examining events at the cellular level, in particular the plasma membrane that protects the cell, we have learned that it is possible to restore balance.

“Autism means I won’t lead an ordinary life… I can lead an extraordinary life!” – Anonymous

The new model suggests possibility of recovery from ASD with evidence-based, nutritional interventions including:

• Supplementation with balanced essential fatty acids (4:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 oil and phosphatidylcholine) to support cell membrane integrity.
• The daily diet should be nutrient-dense, organic, high-protein, and high-EFAs.
• Foods that are highly allergenic should be avoided. Parents who implemented a gluten-free and/or casein-free diet in their children demonstrated substantial improvement in overall behavior including irritability, hyperactivity, and inappropriate speech.
• Probiotics, digestive enzymes, bile salts, magnesium carbonate, and ground flaxseed are aids for those with ASD who need digestive support.

Always Unique Totally Intelligent Sometimes Mysterious

For more information on helping a child obtain overall SUPER HEALTH, please visit: doughaddad.com.

Douglas Haddad is a full-time public school teacher in Connecticut and the author of parenting/child guidance book Save Your Kids…Now! The Revolutionary Guide To Helping Youth Conquer Today’s Challenges and co-author of Top Ten Tips For Tip Top Shape:  Super Health Programs For All Professional Fields.

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• Omega Fatty Acids’ Super Healthy Super Powers to Aid A Child
• Natural Remedies for the Gut-Brain Connection
• The Gut-Brain Connection and Children with Special Needs
• Pharmacogenetics: Genetic Testing for Personalized Medical Treatment
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This post originally appeared on our January/February 2012 Magazine