What Is Autism?

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that, according to the latest statistics from the Centers for Disease Control, affects 1 in every 150 children in the United States. Autism is classified as a Spectrum disorder meaning that the symptoms of Autism affect children in a myriad of degrees that range from very mild to quite severe. Some of the symptoms associated with Autism include, but are not limited to speech delays, ranging from a complete absence of speech to mild/moderate delays, lack of eye contact, various sensory integration issues (i.e. abnormal response to senses, either hyper or hypo active), social relatedness impairments, self stimulatory, repetitive and sometimes self-injurious behaviors, insistence upon a routine and obsessive compulsive disorder-type symptoms.

Today, there is evidence which indicates that a large majority of children with Autism have GI symptoms, food allergies and mal-digestion or mal-absorption issues. Indeed, studies have shown that people with developmental disabilities including Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) very often experience various digestive issues such as food intolerances, yeast/bacterial overgrowth and leaky gut syndrome. These conditions prevent them from properly digesting food and absorbing necessary nutrients. As a result, their neurological condition can be further aggravated thereby inhibiting their brains from functioning optimally. Consequently, improving digestive system health can aid the brain in functioning optimally. This is why many children with Autism and ADD/ADHD benefit greatly from a change in diet such as a Gluten Free / Casein Free diet or by following the Specific Carbohydrate Diet in addition to added supplementation. (For more information on these diets see the links below).

If you think that your child shows the signs of Autism or another Spectrum disorder it is important to get a diagnosis as early as possible - the earlier the diagnosis the better the outcome. Speak with your doctor or contact us using the information on our Contact page for guidance on how to proceed.