Treatment Approach to Autism
My approach to the treatment of a patient with autism is to test for nutrient deficiencies and genetic weaknesses and then design an individualized nutrient plan based on the results. Some of the important nutrients I look at through blood testing are copper, zinc, iron, vitamin D and B12. I also order the FRAT test and start patients on leucovorin as well as methyl B12 shots. In addition, I look at the gastrointestinal tract and microbiome through blood, urine, and stool testing to make sure that nutrients are being absorbed and that infections are not present. I treat yeast and mold if I find them to be present. I also frequently look at toxins and may prescribe appropriate treatment. I try to move all of my patients to a more nutrient dense diet and also work on other health problems such as allergies, asthma, eczema, frequent infections, sleep problems, and constipation. We may do an elimination diet. Patients see me every two to three months until we have achieved the response that we want. After that patients see me every six to twelve months.
I also want my patients with autism to be in therapies such as ABA, speech therapy and OT. I try to make the patients have healthier brains and bodies so that they can get the maximal benefit from their behavioral programs.
I like for parents to be well informed and to be partners in the treatment plan. I have trained with the Institute for Functional Medicine, the Walsh Research Institute and Integrative Medicine for Mental Health and MAPS. Click on the names of these organization to take you to their web sites which have information on integrative treatments that I have incorporated into the treatment plans for my patients.