Naturally Recovering Autism with Karen Thomas

Aluminum and Autism We get toxic metals from the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, vaccinations, and much more. They are also in cookware and in the health care products most people use daily such as deodorants, fragrances, lotions, make-up, and so much more. It is important to protect ourselves daily from environmental toxins. There are many things we can do such as eliminating the contaminated products we use. We can also take a natural detoxifier daily that is proven to remove these harmful agents from our bodies. One of the best ways to do this is with Pure Body Extra Strength clinoptilolite zeolite. Detoxify Heavy Metals with The Most Effective Zeolite on the Market Backed by Science The company Touchstone, has a proprietary process it uses to bring their natural clinoptilolite zeolite called Pure Body Extra Strength, down to a nanosized particle. This allows detoxification to happen at an intracellular level. This is important because it must be able to pull the metals out of the tissues and the cells where they reside. This includes. the cells of the brain. Knowing that aluminum is present in drinking water is extremely concerning. However, studies showing natural zeolite to remove aluminum from water. Here is one example, Aluminum removal from tap water using natural zeolite. Animal Studies (using a variety of zeolites) – shows natural clinoptilolite effectively detoxes heavy metals and aluminum in rats: Novel, oxygenated clinoptilolite material efficiently removes aluminium from aluminium chloride-intoxicated rats in vivo. Read the study here. rofessor Christopher Exley PhD FRSB is a biologist whom has been researching ‘aluminum and life’ for over thirty-six years. During this time, primarily at Keele University in the United Kingdom, he has published over 200 peer-reviewed scientific papers and has earned the nickname from his peers of, “Mr Aluminum”. Christopher Exley is an English chemist known for his research on the health effects of aluminum exposure. He is Professor of Bioinorganic Chemistry and group leader of the Bioinorganic Chemistry Laboratory at Keele University. Professor Exley is part of the world’s leading group researching the efficacy and safety of aluminum adjuvants used in vaccines, and he himself is known as the world’s leading researcher on aluminum. He is the author of the book, Imagine You Are An Aluminum Atom: Discussions With Mr. Aluminum. Find Dr. Exley’s website here. Read Dr. Exley’s Medical Blog here. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/103

In this podcast I interview environmental toxin expert, Dr. Stewart Lonky. Educating yourself on environmental toxins is important for everyone’s health, but it is paramount for parents of children with autism. People with autism have weak detoxification pathways so they tend to get backed up with a toxic overload even easier than the average person does. What does this mean to you? Many health and behavioral issues such as anger, anxiety, lack of ability to focus, and digestive disturbance, are common in children with autism. Heavy metals absorption can be a major contributor to these issues and they can prevent anyone, including your child, from getting well. Heavy metals such as mercury, lead, aluminum and cadmium are dangerous toxins that can be absorbed by your body. They destroy the neurological system, cause autoimmune illnesses, and are carcinogenic. How To Safely Detoxify Heavy Metals Additionally, one mineral in particular, clinoptilolite, a zeolite, has unique properties known for detoxifying toxins and heavy metals including mercury, lead, arsenic, cadmium, and aluminum. Zeolite is a natural chelating mineral. This means that it binds to toxins like a magnet, pulling them from your system, and helping your body excrete them safely. But you need to be careful! Not all zeolites are effective at detoxification. In fact, most are completely ineffective. When mined, zeolite has already been in the ground awhile, soaking up lead, arsenic, and other environmental toxins and heavy metals like a sponge. If ingested in its raw form, freshly mined zeolite would be too big and too dirty to work properly. In order to remove toxins from inside of the cells it must be small enough to do so. This is why I recommend only one specific liquid zeolite. The Clinoptilolite, Pure Body Extra Strength, has gone through a proprietary process to cleanse it of impurities and reduce the particle to a nano-size that is small enough to get into cells. You can read the studies here. Normally, this remarkable detoxifier sells for $79.95, but my readers can get their first bottle right now for just $5. They’ll even ship it for free. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/102

The B vitamins, which are water-soluble, are crucial for a variety of reasons. Nerves cannot function normally without them. B vitamin deficiency along with heavy metal toxicity is among the leading causes of irritability, anger, and violent episodes. It is also commonly a problem among those with anxiety and seizures. The B vitamins protect the brain from excitotoxicity, and a deficiency in B vitamins causes low taurine levels, reducing the body’s ability to detoxify. B vitamins are essential or crucial to survival, but our bodies cannot make them, so they must be provided by dietary means. The B vitamins also increase cellular energy. VITAMIN B 1 (Thiamine) Thiamine is another name for vitamin B1. Thiamine is involved in energy production, normal nerve functioning, and metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. VITAMIN B 2 (Riboflavin) Riboflavin is another name for vitamin B2. Riboflavin 5- phosphate is the active form of vitamin B2. Riboflavin is important in normal nerve functioning, building ATP (commonly low with mitochondria dysfunction), increases energy metabolism, carbohydrate metabolism, and assists in the production of glutathione. It is important for the health of the eyes, mucus membranes, skin, and fetal growth and development. Riboflavin is involved in converting vitamin B6 and folic acid into their active forms. It is naturally found in eggs, meat, and broccoli. VITAMIN B3 (Niacinamide)..... VITAMIN B5 (Pantothenic acid)..... VITAMIN B6 (Pyridoxine).... FOLIC ACID OR FOLATE.... VITAMIN METHYL B12.... Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/101

Helibactor pylori, or H. Pylori, are bacteria that are found in the stomach and duodenum (upper GI). We all carry these microbes in our GI tract. These otherwise harmless microbes become problematic when our gut flora becomes imbalanced and the cells of the stomach are damaged. Candida overgrowth is a direct cause of H. pylori problems. Liver congestion is another culprit. When bile and toxins are frequently pushed back into the stomach, the cells become injured and weak and are then more susceptible to damage from pathogenic microbes such as H. pylori, which in this case can even cause ulcers. H. pylori is also spread through saliva. Remember this when sharing food or kissing your child on the lips, especially if his gut is weak and he has Candida. By the age of six months, many babies already carry H. pylori. H. pylori are strong, acid-resistant bacteria. Its resistance is so strong that it can survive stomach acid. This makes the stomach produce more acid, which damages the stomach lining. Their corkscrew shape also bores holes in the stomach lining. These factors cause non-stress induced ulcers. Symptoms are often the same as those who experience stomach ulcers. The most common symptom is stomach pain, but other symptoms may include chronic migraine headaches, fatigue, lack of nutritional absorption, nausea, vomiting, weight gain due to the rise in cortisol, depression, anxiety, bad breath, sinus problems, joint pain, headaches, and lack of mental clarity. As you can see, these symptoms are many of the same that come from Candida albicans. ....... Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/100

In this podcast episode #99, We discuss acid reflux, (GER), and Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where acid from the stomach comes up into the esophagus. Either way, the acid causes a burning sensation in the chest and throat and can cause damage to the mucosal lining if not worked with properly. WHAT CAUSES ACIDITY The most common cause of an acidic body is poor diet. Poor diet leads to poor digestion, which only makes the system even more acidic. Emotional stress also plays a role. Another common instigator of acid reflux is Candida albicans. The overgrowth of Candida or yeast in the gut will release toxins. This toxic waste effects digestion and the ability of the gut to produce hydrochloric acid. Disease, Candida, and tumors all thrive in an acidic environment. The only time we are vulnerable to germs is when our body is acidic. An acidic body also overloads the immune system and can cause problems ranging from headaches and allergies to adrenal and liver trouble. Supplementation To Assist GERD Assisting digestion with enzymes and supplementing with hydrochloric acid (HCL), especially with protein based meals, is often helpful to reduce GERD. Take them just prior to eating. For intermittent relief of burning symptoms, chewing on one Dr. Ohhira’s probiotic can help. By opening up the softgel the probiotic is able to work to balance the acidity in the upper GI tract. Supporting the liver and gallbladder is crucial too. Click Here or Click the link below for more details https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/99

Many steps but you must first elim the most harmful and inflammatory ones from the diet. Please get my free download of the top 7 foods to avoid and begin removing them slowly from your child’s diet. Show #98 Working remotely, It’s important to work with the root causes then once the toxins and inflammation are out of the way some of the acquired allergies can be eliminated. The allergies may be to much more than food. They can be to various bacteria or infections int he body or to environmental exposure to agents often not previously considered. Trapped Emotions that Prevent Optimum Recovery from Autism Underlying emotional components can be at the root cause for many individuals and they must be cleared so the path to health is open. Please learn more about Clearing Trapped Emotions with the Emotion Code from my interview with Dr. Bradley Nelson on this work. And the results Gut healing-allergy elim after Yes, there is much involved in gut healing and if we don’t heal up the lining of the gut that is allowing undigested foods into the bloodstream so the immune system reacts to them then it keeps happening. The gut lining has many reasons why it may have holes like I mentioned, candida, glyphosate, mold biotoxins, Lyme. If we don’t get to the core of the issues then it keeps happening. Supplements are required along with the right diet for a long enough period of time, and getting the coinfections cleared. We also must support the organs of detoxification and their pathways during this process. It all takes time. Once all of this is done, or greatly reduced, the allergy elimination can work on eliminating the allergies that were acquired during the time when the gut was ill. Make sense? I hope this helps. Hi! Some people aren’t interested in energy healing because they don’t understand it. That’s ok. The one thing is that what I do actually heals the gut. So you don’t need to heal the gut before you do the NAET because that’s exactly what I do. Part of why there is inflammation in the gut is because kids on the spectrum have so many food intolerances that everything they eat is causing them inflammation. Cara Di Cicco-Sandre is a Speech-Language Pathologist specializing in the areas of early childhood language development and dysphagia in the stroke population. Di Cicco-Sandre received her B.S. from New York University and her M.A. from St. John’s University in Speech-Language Pathology. She has completed the coursework for her PhD in Speech and Hearing Sciences. Click Here or Click the Link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/98

The health of the colon, or the large intestine, is critical to overall health. Daily bowel movements must release toxic material or it can be reabsorbed into the walls of the large intestine. Constipation allows for toxic re-absorption due to the extended amount of time the waste stays in the bowels. Proper amounts of water are needed to allow for the removal of waste including pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics in animal feed, and carcinogenic agents in the air we breathe. Dehydration and lack of proper fiber can cause constipation. The bowels effect behavior through toxic reabsorption, but they are also very sensitive to the neurotransmitters in the digestive tract. These brain signaling chemicals include adrenaline, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Fiber is essential when feces are moving well to keep digestion on track, but contrary to popular belief, if the bowel is constipated and lodged with waste, taking fiber often makes it worse. Fiber acts to further bind what is not moving. If you are constipated, aloe leaf is an excellent choice for getting things moving. More options are listed below. Be sure to avoid binding foods such as gluten, cheese and red meat. The large intestine also absorbs minerals necessary for our health. An improperly working colon causes nutrient deficiencies. Enemas are helpful to release fecal matter from the lower portion of the large intestine. Coffee enemas will stimulate the nerves in the liver and assist its detoxification processes. Colonic irrigation or colonics are an essential part of health. They gently remove old debris from the entire colon and its walls by cleansing it with distilled or purified water. Colonics can be done as early as age six, although many children may not agree to this. If they do, be sure to see an Advanced Certified Colon Hydrotherapist. To find and I-ACT certified professional go to, www.i-act.org, or call (210) 366-2888. The acronym H.O.P.E. is sometimes used to help remember what to do to assist the health of the colon. H.O.P.E stands for: High fiber Omega-3 oils Probiotics Enzymes Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/97

When you’re detoxifying, and your child suddenly goes into extreme anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders, fearfulness, clinginess, panic attacks, skin rashes that itch severely or even burn or blister in sunlight then this post will give you the common reasons why and some things you can do about it. They can also be why you might be getting derailed in the autism recovery process. The very first stage in autism recovery begins with gut healing. The first step in stage one begins with diet changes. You must remove the bad foods that contribute to inflammation, and injured gut lining, and feed the pathogenic bacteria overgrowth in your child’s gut such as candida. When you do this the bad bacteria will begin to die off and detoxification begins. You must support this process with binders to help sop up the toxins. You can get your free guide to the top 7 foods to eliminate and learn more about why they are so harmful to eat. What most parents don’t know when detoxifying their child with autism Troubleshooting during detoxification is critical. This is something that took me years to find when I was on my son’s recovery journey. Had I known about it I would have saved myself a lot of time, financial expense, and reduced the stress and even panic that both my son and I lived in for so long. Not knowing what to do is the worst. You know, that helpless feeling of knowing something needs to be done but you don’t know what that something is. The doctor says they can see you in a week or a month but you need answers now. This can be extremely stressful. PANS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) First and most commonly it is a sign of what is referred to as PANS. This acronym stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Syndrome. You can read the full details on it and listen to my interview with specialist, Dr. Madeleine Cunningham here, but in a nutshell, the symptoms are caused by the immune system attacking the brain. As you can imagine, the symptoms are severe. Some symptoms of Kryptopyrroles Porphyrins (KPU) Rapid triggered extreme anxiety from the removal of sugars and carbs heightened skin sensitivity, especially to sunlight cannot tolerate fasting or intermittent fasting panic attacks bowel issues of either constipation or diarrhea hallucinations chronic pain cannot tolerate low carbohydrate or low sugar diet/candida diet (until heem pathways are balanced) very low zinc levels. A common copper to zinc ratio imbalance. sleep disruption abdominal pain back pain Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/96

Have you ever wondered if your child could actually get better? I mean that their symptoms of autism could improve? Does your child have a particular symptom that you feel limits them from having a completely fulfilled quality of life? If so, which one is it? Is it a lack of clear speech, inability to focus and learn in a classroom, unstable sleep, anxiety and tantrums with overall unstable moods? In this post I will share with you how others have successfully overcome some of these debilitating symptoms for their children. I will also be teaching a free 3 hour live virtual event this Saturday, September 26th, for parents of children with autism who wish to know how it’s done. Please be sure to register now at, NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/masterclass. After over 30 years as a Craniosacral Therapist studying the brain and holistic health, and almost 15 years now of research specifically on the needs of those with autism, I share this knowledge with you as a mentor who has lived through it myself. I know what your journey is like and my goal is to make your journey easier, more direct, with less stress because you have more confidence in knowing what to do for your child’s health to bring them to a productive, independent life, filled with great health and happiness. What would you do if you had an actual roadmap in the autism recovery process? What would you be able to stop doing? Hunting and pecking through the internet constantly in search of answers, no longer jump from practitioner to practitioner or therapist to therapist “hoping” for some results but not really knowing what you need to do? Maybe you’re getting some results, but plateauing and not knowing where to go next. Well you’ve come to the right place. After going through all of that myself on my own journey to bring my son to recovery from his symptoms of autism I began helping other parents. You know, mentoring them. I had lived it so I knew what it was like, and I have spent the years doing the research. I was asked by parents, actually begged, to create a program that just gave the steps in an order they could easily follow. We as parents of children with autism are often overwhelmed and we don’t have the time or the bandwidth to search constantly on our own, but we need answers NOW. So where do you go? So I created my step-by-step Naturally Recovering Autism membership. I chose the word “recovery” because the dictionary definition of “recovery” is to regain health”. This is what I am all about, optimum health, naturally achieved. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/95

Diana was once very skeptical when she heard it was possible to reverse her son’s diagnosis of autism. More importantly, she wanted her son to be able to talk to her, to sleep, focus in a classroom, to have the ability to be calm, and make friends. Today he has all that and more. At age 2, Diana’s son was diagnosed with severe speech delay. At age 5, he had only two-word sentences, couldn’t sleep well, was not socializing, had very picky eating habits (only ate one type of food), screamed and threw tantrums all day long, was anxious and aggressive, and cried a lot. He was in special ed classes and not able to focus. He was not happy, to say the least. At age 4, Diana took her son in for assessment and he was diagnosed with autism. At that point she was told it would be a year before she could get her son into an appointment with her doctor. Diana read Karen’s story of her own success bringing her son to recovery from his symptoms of autism, and read the many testimonials from other parents that Karen had helped to get vast improvements with their children. Diana learned of Karen’s mentoring membership program that supported parents in over 40 countries. DianaCf herself, that she is a skeptic by nature and needs to research everything. “I am a public health researcher by profession, with a very analytical eye. Your program is all inclusive and the information is quite easy to understand even by anyone who does not have any health background.” In Diana’s own words: I was very devastated when my 4 year old son was diagnosed with “autism symptoms”. After the diagnosis and in desperation, I spoke to myself and said: “for sure, this is it… autism like symptoms with my son! Nonetheless, I know he will recover from this and lead a normal life”. That’s not denial as some may think. It is called “FAITH”. As a mother, I knew that I needed to be strong in order to help my son as I trust God. I was very positive and ready to walk through the healing journey of my son. As I desperately researched for information and programs online in order to help my son, I landed on Karen Thomas’ autism mom mentor program. I contacted Karen immediately and asked her a “million” questions about the program. It looked too good to be true and kind of a hoax! I was very hesitant to join the program. As I chatted with Karen (through emails), I researched on the information (supplements, foods, healing gut process etc.) provided by Karen in order to authenticate the facts. I did lots of reading on my own to understand autism and its healing processes that Karen talked about. There was no pressure from Karen at all – she just narrated the journey of her son’s healing from autism. I took more than a month researching on autism recovery processes and trying to comprehend Karen’s program. Without any doubts, I joined the autism mom mentor program and religiously followed the recommendations of the program step by step, following everything religiously in the program.” Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/94

Mineral deficiency is prevalent in children with autism. Actually, it’s prevalent in most people today because our the soil our food is grown in is so depleted. A deficiency in trace minerals is the core of so many issues that can be continuing to keep your child at bay from really getting well. Impaired children need this more because they don’t utilize trace minerals well. Even what we think is healthy organic food has been grown in mineral deficient soil. That means your food is not giving you adequate amounts of the necessary minerals and nutrition needed for optimum health. Scientist, Rene Quinton, recognized the biological and energetic properties of one, very specific phytoplankton bloom naturally occurring in only one place in the ocean. He extracted these trace minerals from a a protected part of the Bay of Bascay off the coast of Spain and France. This particular area has a plankton bloom with both phytoplankton and Zooplankton. Sunlight then converts this bloom into the exact combination of minerals, amino acids, nucleic acids and more. What this means is that the 78 minerals contained within this sea water were in specific ratios that are very similar to that within the human plasma. This bloom then communicates with our cells for proper function. The human body does not make these trace minerals, yet must have them for transmitting nerve impulses, muscle contraction, blood sugar regulation, nail, hair, skin and bone health, electrolyte balance, hydration and energy production. Scientists tell us there are 16 minerals that are necessary for survival, but we need 78 to thrive. Quinton contains all 78. They are a natural seawater source, so they taste like salt water, and they come in small vials. You can the Isotonic Quinton minerals once a day, or a couple a day, if you like. Robert Slovak’s Biography: Robert Slovak is a degreed Mechanical and Astronautical engineer, best known as the co-founder, with his brother Jack, of Water Factory Systems in the early 1970’s. He is recognized as one of the key developers of Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology and its numerous applications. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. http://NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/minerals

Autism is called a spectrum disorder because no two people with autism have the same exact symptoms. It’s a long spectrum with one end being those who are higher functioning and the other end being those who are very low functioning. The meaning behind the word “functioning” depends on their ability to navigate through life. Some symptoms simply make life more challenging. For example, a very high functioning individual was once referred to as having “Aspergers Syndrome”. This term was first described in 1944 by Austrian physician Hans Asperger. In 2013, The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM–5), removed the term Aspergers, and placed this diagnosis under an umbrella of autism spectrum disorders, lesser defining it. How do health issues contribute to the symptoms of autism? A study in The Journal of Neuroscience, Gut Microbes and the Brain: Paradigm Shift in Neuroscience, found that, “alterations in the gut microbiome may play a pathophysiological role in human brain diseases, including autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain”. The gut directly affects the ability of the brain to function. Bacteria in the gut communicate with the brain, and the neurotransmitters, brain messengers, are made in the gut. The gut also makes up 80% of the immune system. Conclusion: the gut controls the brain and the immune system. What You Can Do Many parents ask for my help. I like to begin with the first step in healing the gut, diet. Yes, autism recovery is much more than diet alone and it’s why many parents fall short of optimum results thinking that is all there is. Here we begin with diet then move forward from there. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/91

How can heme pathway dysregulation cause issues in Autism? Porphyria is a build up of toxins in the blood due to a heem pathway dysregulation. Porphyria are iron-containing heme which permits hemoglobin oxygen transportation in the blood. It is triggered by many things including fasting, genetics, nutrient imbalance, rapid detoxification, candida, Lyme, viruses, mold, heavy metals, glyphosate and other toxic insult. The technical name is Kryptopyrroles porphyrins, also referred to as Kryptopyrroluria (KPU). This also triggers mast cell activation. Mast cells are types of white blood cells that help to regulate the immune system. Mast cells can determine how our bodies react to environmental triggers like sugar, pesticides, perfume, pollution, and other causes of inflammation. Detoxifying for people with KPU must be done VERY slowly. Even the candida cleansing diet that removes sugars and processed carbohydrates can trigger a KPU response. The toxin release may also trigger an autoimmune response of PANS/PANDAS, since a Staphylococcus infection contributes to a build up of porphyrins. There is an accumulation of porphyrins and pyrrole pigments by Staphylococcus. Some symptoms of kryptopyrroles porphyrins (KPU) Rapid triggered extreme anxiety from the removal of sugars and carbs heightened skin sensitivity, especially to sunlight, cannot tolerate fasting or intermittent fasting, panic attacks, bowel issues of either constipation or diarrhea, hallucinations, chronic pain, cannot tolerate low carbohydrate or low sugar diet/candida diet (until heem pathways are balanced), very low zinc levels. A common copper to zinc ratio imbalance. sleep disruption abdominal pain back pain Dr. Beth O’Hara’s biography Beth O’Hara is a Functional Naturopath, specializing in complex chronic immune conditions related to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance. She is the founder and owner of Mast Cell 360, a Functional Naturopathy Practice designed to look at all factors surrounding health conditions – genetic, epigenetic biochemical, physiological, environmental, and emotional. Her subspecialties are Mold Toxicity and Genetic Analysis in the area of Mast Cell Activation and Histamine Intolerance. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/90

What is leaky gut syndrome and why should a parent with autism be knowledgeable about it? Leaky gut is just as it sounds…the gut, or intestinal lining has holes that have been torn in it. These holes allow undigested foods into the bloodstream where the immune system sees them as toxic agents to attack. From this immune response we end up with multiple allergies to foods and a cascade of inflammation that creates a myriad of health issues, including deregulating brain function affecting sleep, mood, appetite, ability to focus and learn, malabsorption of nutrients, depleted minerals, and overall systemic toxicity from foods and pathogenic bacteria. Let’s take a look at each and what you can do about it. Some common causes of leaky gut Gluten (the protein in wheat) causes intestinal permeability. Also know that gluten free does not mean it’s healthy. Processed carbohydrates turn to sugar in the body and contribute to allow pathogenic bacteria to thrive. Sugars are also inflammatory. Glyphosate is the harmful herbicide that is sprayed on our food crops, especially wheat, and it destroys the gut lining. Casein is the protein in cow’s milk. Cow’s milk contains the bad A1 protein, has a lot of natural sugar in it and like gluten, it is inflammatory. Additionally, gluten and casein create opiates in the body so your child becomes addicted to them. CLick Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/89

How I Got Here It wasn’t all that long ago, that my son still had all of his symptoms of autism. He’d wake up screaming in pain in his stomach at 2AM, and I didn’t know why. He had emotional outbursts and tantrums. He’d have a hard time focusing in school and sensory issues and anxiety that made it hard to sit still. When people say things like, how can you want to change a child with autism? I ask them if they would want to live with those symptoms. Does that sound like a happy, and comfortable life? Could they even begin to share their positive contributions with the world when their anxiety and depression is so debilitating? Do they yearn for friends but don’t know how to make them or are treated like an outcast or even bullied? This is what I wanted to change, and fortunately, it did. Today, all of those symptoms my son once had are gone. He is no longer even diagnosable. He’s calm, easy going, just graduated from college, he’s happy, and healthy. He has a ton of great friends who love being with him, and he’s comfortable being with them. He’s a writer whose passionate about writing science fiction and fantasy novels, and possibly writing for gaming companies. This may have not been possible before I began my own research and went down the path to find the causes of his symptoms of autism so I could work with them directly, not mask them with dangerous drugs like the doctors and therapists advised me. Yes, that’s right, their answer was to drug him and try behavioral therapies and wished me good luck and told me we’d be managing his symptoms the rest of his life. They told me he could not recover. People today still believe autism recovery is not possible. When I hear that I say, “Oh yea, well, talk to my son.” CLick Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/88

What are histamines and mast cells? Close to 100% of children with autism have histamine intolerance and mast cell activation. Histamines are released by the digestive tract and the brain in defense as an allergic reaction. The DAO enzyme helps the body break down excess histamines, but commonly, this enzyme is defective in children with autism. In histamine intolerance the body is over producing histamines and there are too many for the body to break down. This stress type response is a trigger for mast cell activation which creates a strong inflammatory response in the body. Mast cells are our front line defenders helping the immune system recognize pathogens of all kinds, including electromagnetic field radiation. Mast cells help regulate the immune system, and protect us from environmental toxins. Histamine is a mast cell mediator. Too much histamine released causes histamine intolerance which causes mast cell activation. When this happens our protective mechanisms are broken down and we become hypersensitive to things we ingest or that are in our environment. What are histamines and mast cells? Close to 100% of children with autism have histamine intolerance and mast cell activation. Histamines are released by the digestive tract and the brain in defense as an allergic reaction. The DAO enzyme helps the body break down excess histamines, but commonly, this enzyme is defective in children with autism. In histamine intolerance the body is over producing histamines and there are too many for the body to break down. This stress type response is a trigger for mast cell activation which creates a strong inflammatory response in the body. Mast cells are our front line defenders helping the immune system recognize pathogens of all kinds, including electromagnetic field radiation. Mast cells help regulate the immune system, and protect us from environmental toxins. Histamine is a mast cell mediator. Too much histamine released causes histamine intolerance which causes mast cell activation. When this happens our protective mechanisms are broken down and we become hypersensitive to things we ingest or that are in our environment. Dr. Beth O’Hara’s biography Beth O’Hara is a Functional Naturopath, specializing in complex chronic immune conditions related to Mast Cell Activation Syndrome and Histamine Intolerance. She is the founder and owner of Mast Cell 360, a Functional Naturopathy Practice designed to look at all factors surrounding health conditions – genetic, epigenetic biochemical, physiological, environmental, and emotional. Her subspecialties are Mold Toxicity and Genetic Analysis in the area of Mast Cell Activation and Histamine Intolerance. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/86

E.M.D.R stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a gentle, non invasive therapy based on bilateral stimulation, (right, left), of the nervous system. It is often done through visual stimulation. However, E.M.D.R. is also effective by stimulating other parts of the body such as through hearing from right to left with sounds in headphones, or in the hands through tapping or hand held stimulators. E.M.D.R. helps to free trapped emotions in the nervous system due to past or present emotional experiences being withheld. These can range from traumatic to seemingly uneventful times in our lives, but continue to effect our reactions to current life experiences, even decades later. Generally speaking, six or more sessions are needed as the layers are removed and replaced with more positive feelings. Dr. Amy Hopkins Dr. Amy Hopkins is a Licensed Psychologist with a doctorate in Psychology. Her doctoral project was entitled: An Exploration of the Impact of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health. Dr. Hopkins works with adults and teens and has a private practice in Newport Beach, California. She has certificates in EMDR, Alcoholism and Chemical Dependency, and Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Dr. Hopkins has extensive experience working with trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, addiction, parenting, and interpersonal relationships. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/85

Neuroquant is a technically advanced way to scan the brain for images that can offer valuable information on specific areas of the brain’s volume. This can show where the brain in smaller and more deficient so we’re able to work to enhance these areas. Inflammation and coinfections of autism, such as mold biotoxins, and PANS, PANDAS/strep, can cause many brain abnormalities which we are able to assess with the Neuroquant scan. The neuroquant brain scan can offer information to tell us a bit more about how the brain is functioning and why certain behaviors may exist. Nutritional support for the brain is incredibly important, so I offer you a quick reference guide on the top foods to avoid, but sometimes the brain needs some additional assistance to build neurotransmitters, or brain messengers, which can also come from natural brain support supplementation. Further resources: Please listen to radio show #83, where Dr. Jodie Dashore and I discuss the benefits of the Neuroquant brain imaging. Find a Neuroquant practitioner near you here. Additional radio show interviews on the coinfections of autism can all be found HERE: Radio Show #2 is on the comorbid symptoms. Radio Shows #7 and #34 are on mold biotoxins. Radio Show #11, 15, and 18 are focused on Lyme Disease. Also watch, Mold Biotoxins and Your Health [Podcast] Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/83

FOODS THAT FEED THE BRAIN In the 1970s, when the book Orthomolecular Psychiatry by the Nobel Prize-winner Linus Pualing, was released, it showed that mental illness on any level could be affected by nutrition as well as medication. At that time, the medical profession, especially psychiatry, disclaimed this knowledge that nutrition was helpful to health, especially emotional health or the functioning of the brain. Today, the information in that book has become elemental in treating chemical and physical disorders that lead to brain dysfunction as well as mental illness. Medication and supplements are not enough. In order to build the proper levels of neurotransmitters in the brain, certain nutritional needs must be met. Chemical balance relies on enough of the good coming in and the bad being greatly limited. Hypoglycemia should be avoided at all cost. Hypoglycemia is low blood sugar caused by a drop in blood glucose levels. This can also cause diabetes. It is caused by eating too many refined carbohydrates, such as foods and beverages with white sugar like soda, refined cereals, pastries, etc. Click Here or Click the link bellow for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/82

Most children with autism and other neurological imbalances can become calmer, happier, have better focus, and retain information far better with the use of natural supplementation to assist their brain. Healing the biology from toxins, inflammation and infections is critical. Please see my free webinar to learn about each of these, and how it can be done safely, and naturally. The following are informational examples of options for assisting brain function with natural supplementation. First, let’s learn a little bit about neurotransmitters. Serotonin Serotonin is a key brain chemical that is been identified in the physiological abnormalities in ASD and AD/HD. Serotonin is made from tryptophan with the help of vitamin C, folate, iron, calcium and vitamin B6. Tryptophan is an amino acid, which is a building block of protein. Children with developmental disorders often show amino acid deficiency including tryptophan. They also have an inability to effectively convert B6 to its active form P5P. Serotonin is responsible for regulating: Learning Memory Sensory Perception Noise sensitivity Mood Behaviour Sleep Appetite The natural supplement 5HTP builds serotonin. Gut dysbiosis, as well as heavy metals can also effect levels of serotonin and dopamine. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/81

It’s important to know why your child may be behaving in certain ways or have difficulty either getting motivated or calming down. Scientists have found that gut bacteria produce neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and GABA. Up to 95% of serotonin is made in the gut.-mood, sleep appetite. Listen to radio show #76 for more on neurotransmitters. Additional infections and toxins that affect the gut (and therefore, the brain): The gut lining becomes damaged due to factors such as an intense inflammatory response that leads to persistent inflammation (often the case after vaccinations due to mercury or viral exposure), mold biotoxins, lyme disease, PANDAS/strep infections, overgrowth of bad bacteria such as Candida, invasion of parasites, contaminated food and beverages, chemicals in processed food, dyes, preservatives, bad fats, enzyme deficiency, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen), prescription corticosteroids (e.g. Prednisone or hydrocortisone), a diet of highly refined carbohydrates, such as cookies, candy, soda, white bread, molds, and fungus from stored grains, fruit, and refined carbohydrates, pesticides, viruses, GI disease, chemotherapy, and radiation treatments due to the harmful impact on the immune system. All of these things are contributing factors to what is known as “leaky gut.” PHYSICAL EFFECTS OF GLUTEN AND CASEIN Gluten and casein create opiates in the body. These opiate receptors caused damage to the protective lining of the gut. Therefore, we need to recover the health of the lining so it can do its job of blocking out toxic materials and absorbing nutrients from the foods we eat. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/80

PANDAS or PANS is an acronym that stands for Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders (Associated with Streptococcal Infections). In 2010, PANDAS became PANS, which is the current proper term for it, so you may hear both. Autoimmunity is a common problem in autism. In the case of PANS the immune system will attack the brain. It is common when there has been an external stressor in life or an internal one such as an infection that there will be a PANS “flare-up”. This term is used when the infection becomes prominent causing many physical and behavioral issues. Some symptoms of PANS include, Strep throat, flu-like symptoms, tiks, a reduction in language and speech, aggression, or a sudden onset of OCD, or anxiety. Other infections that are known to trigger PANS can be Lyme disease, and mold biotoxins due to the inflammation. Proper antibody screening can help to detect PANS. Dr. Madeleine Cunningham has developed a test panel to determine the extent of a PANS infection. In this radio show #79, interview we will discuss autoimmunity, PANDAS and autism. How all of this effects a child (immune system, behaviors, neurotransmitters, etc) and the “Cunningham Panel” for screening. Medeleine Cunningham, PhD Madeleine Cunningham, PhD is the George Lynn Cross Research Professor, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, and the Presbyterian Health Foundation Presidential Professor of Microbiology and Immunology and for the past 20 years has been the Director of the NIAID funded Immunology Training Program at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/79

During the Coronavirus outbreak there were so many parents at home with their sensory overloaded kids who needed help. One wrote in telling me her child with autism had a PANS/strep outbreak because of the stress of being “shut in” for so long. We all need outlets for our energy but people with sensory overload need real tools to calm, whereas, some need more stimulation. There was a great need to provide help for parents, so I wanted to share my favorite at-home sensory calming gym with those who need something like it right now. I also decided it was a perfect time to bring in a sensory processing expert to help further. Please listen to my radio show interview with Lindsey Biel, OTR/L, a pediatric occupational therapist and learn how you can entertain your child at home with fun games that also help calm sensory needs. It’s show #78. Lindsey Biel, M.A., OTR/L Lindsey Biel, is a pediatric occupational therapist with a private practice in New York City where she evaluates and treats children, adolescents, and young adults with sensory processing issues, developmental delays, autism spectrum disorders, and other challenges. Click Here or Click the link below for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/78

Children with autism exhibit many issues with hearing and balance including sensitivities to loud noises, dizziness, unsteady gait, speech and language development and more. Please join me for this interview with auditory specialist, Margaret “Peggy” Glenney. Some of the topics we will discuss: What are the risk factors for auditory/vestibular developmental delays? What are some red flags of auditory developmental delays? It’s important to find these kids early. With traditional peripheral hearing loss, the importance of early intervention and identification is well known, courtesy of Marion Downs, who is sometimes referred to as the founding mother of pediatric audiology. Margaret “Peggy” Glenney, advocates for central auditory delays and disorders. Parents will benefit greatly from early identification. Please listen to my radio show interview with Margaret “Peggy” Glenney. It’s episode #84. Margaret “Peggy” Glenney MA, CCC-A, F-AA Margaret “Peggy” Glenney is a developmental audiologist. Since 1984, Margaret Glenney, has worked as an audiologist working in hospitals and universities throughout the U.S, as both an instructor and trainer for the Certified Occupational Hearing Conservationist (COHC), program. She has provided clinical supervision for graduate students in both Speech Pathology and Audiology and taught graduate level courses in Industrial Audiology. Margaret has her teacher’s certification in English 6-12th grade, ELL K-12, and Speech Communication. Click Here or Click the link below. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/84

Drinking and bathing in contaminated water is bad enough but when we add more chemicals to the water, in hopes of making it safer, we actually add more problems to it. Swimming pools have multiple health challenges related to them. In this post and podcast, we will go over these issues and what guidelines you need to know. The main three water contaminants First, there are bacterial pathogens which are many, including MRSA. In swimming pools there are the even more due to what others carry on their body, and from outside sources in the air and from the city water. Second, are the cysts, or protozoans. These include such organisms as giardia. Third, there are viruses. The three common dangerous chemicals added to water Chlorine is added to water but its harmful effects are worsened when it reacts with other chemicals, organic vegetation and is detrimental to humans. In my podcast interview with water expert, Robert Slovak, we discuss in further detail the solutions around these problems and how you can protect your family best from them. Robert Slovak’s Biography: Robert Slovak is a degreed Mechanical and Astronautical engineer, best known as the co-founder, with his brother Jack, of Water Factory Systems in the early 1970’s. He is recognized as one of the key developers of Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology and its numerous applications. Click Here or Click the Link bellow for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/92

Children with autism have greater sensitivities to environmental toxins due to the common issue of poor detoxification and an already compromised immune system. When it comes to achieving safe water, especially for the health compromised the consumer is seriously challenged. There are more than 100 contaminants in drinking water that are too expensive to remove which is why you have to take the reins. We’re mostly water so drinking water quality is critical. To a lesser degree, water used for bathing and showering is a source of certain contaminants that might be absorbed through the skin and inhaled. Making choices on water treatment products that eliminate most of the threat of water contamination is, UNFORTUNATELY, a hazard in itself. The typical well-meaning consumer usually approaches me and asks “What water system should I buy for my home?” I want to drop to the floor. To me that’s like walking into a doctor’s office and just asking him, “What meds should I take?” Says internationally known water expert, Robert Slovak. FIRST we have to know something about your water’s physical chemistry. “Water is not a bit player in the theater of life, it’s the headline act” Prof Martin Chaplin The current failure to curtail the Coronavirus can be attributed to mainstream medicine hiding and suppressing the idea of self-immunity enhancement – a simple and effective strategy that will work better than any they’ve implemented. This also means keeping your exposure to inflammatory and toxic compounds to a minimum. In this radio show interview we will discuss the various contaminants to be aware of in your drinking and bathing water, along with the best purifying filter options. We will also begin our discussion on the dangers involved in chlorinated swimming pools, plus safer alternatives. Please listen to my radio show interview with internationally known water expert, Robert Slovak. It’s episode #87. Robert Slovak’s Biography: Robert Slovak is a degreed Mechanical and Astronautical engineer, best known as the co-founder, with his brother Jack, of Water Factory Systems in the early 1970’s. He is recognized as one of the key developers of Reverse Osmosis (RO) technology and its numerous applications. Click Here or Click the Link bellow for more details. https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/87

Stem Cells help to regulate the immune system. Their responses shown in blood screening can be indicators of underlying coinfections of autism such as Lyme, mold, and strep. These infections are often undetected in many traditional blood tests, so it’s crucial to know of other markers to look for to determine if treatment should given. Infection and inflammation in the brain effects cell proliferation, synapse failure, brain development and the balance of neurotransmitters. In this interview with Dr. Jodie Dashore we will discuss stem cells and the blood screening that can be done to gain insight into the possible coinfections your child may be carrying that can prevent optimum recovery from autism. Some of the questions we will answer in this interview (Radio show #77): Overview of different kinds of stem cells Many parents of kids with ASD are traveling abroad for this procedure. Is this a good idea or not? Are there any precautions or red flags to look for with any facility offering this procedure? For kids with ASD who have comorbid issues, Is there a best time to go for stem cells treatment? Brain imaging can help to scan for imbalances in brain volume. The Neuroquant brain scan is a simple test and often covered by insurance. Limited time only-Get your FREE ticket to the 2020 Autism One virtual conference here. Click Here for more details.

Why might my child be behaving this way. Toxins, inflammation on the brain, infections, and gut disruption reduce the production of neurotransmitters. WHAT IS A NEUROTRANSMITTER? Neurotransmitters can be thought of as the brain’s messengers. They are chemicals made in the digestive tract, or in the brain. They transmit messages vital to our brain’s ability to function properly, our body’s muscle movements, and more. They regulate our moods, appetite, and sleep. They even control our body’s response to pain. If the volume of these chemicals is too low or too high, the message is not sent properly and we experience symptoms. Below are a some more commonly known neurotransmitters: Serotonin Serotonin is the neurotransmitter most involved in the cause of multiple medical and psychiatric problems. It is greatly affected by inflammation and up to 95% of it is made in the gut, so the gut must be working properly. It mainly affects mood, sleep and appetite. Low levels of serotonin may contribute to: Moodiness, including irritability and depression Trouble sleeping Appetite control (lack of satiety) Night terrors Poor digestion Migraine headaches Dopamine Dopamine is essential in attention, focus, and impulse control. Low dopamine is often a contributor to trouble with handwriting, and ability to organize thoughts or plan future events , extremely low motivation and drive, extreme hyperactivity, motor control, and reward. Signals that dopamine is low: Trouble focusing No sense of pleasure or reward Inattentive Low motivation Difficulty with follow through Too much dopamine can be a problem, just as too little can be a problem. Too much dopamine with phenylalanine can cause behavioral disorders such as schizophrenia and seizures. Signals that dopamine is too high: Hyperfocus Stuck in negative behavior patterns (the grudge holder) Click Here for more details.

Children with autism have poor detoxification and need assistance when going through the process. A child with autism is even more sensitive than the average individual. It should be a slow, and gentle process, or when the pathogens die off the behaviors can get extreme and it’s hard on your child’s body too. There are a lot of supplements out there, so how do you know what to use unless you have a thorough guide through the process. First, let’s talk about how getting rid of pathogens and toxins, slowly, is fundamental, so you understand this process a little better. Then we’ll talk about what supplements help and explain more about them. I have successfully used these natural elixirs for about a decade now with autism recovery, including my own son’s journey. I have a lot of parents who have told me how valuable they have been for their own child after I shared them. In radio interview #75, with Robert Harrison, we will dive deep into the aspects of pathogens and detoxification for those with autism. Supporting detoxification and helping calm Some of the elixirs discussed with Robert Harrison in radio show #75. Click Here for more details.

Let’s talk about some genetic SNP’s that are associated and supported in recovering autism. Single nucleotide polymorphisms, often referred to as SNPs (pronounced “snips”) are basic genetic variations in people. Respectively, in a DNA sequence. There are thousands of genes associated with AUTISM and all of them have been randomized out in clinical trials which tells us that autism is largely environmental! However, even though our genes do not define us, they can guide our way toward healing. Genetic susceptibilities come from trauma, both physical, emotional, and from toxic insult. Less than five percent of humans have genetic defects at birth. Some favorite SNP’s that can be associated and supported in recovering autism: MTHFR It is estimated that 98% of people with autism have the MTHFR gene snip. MTHFR or methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (methyl-ene-tetra-hydro-folate-reductase), when working properly, produces the MTHFR enzyme, MTHFR (5,10-methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase). However, if the gene is mutated it will not be able to make important compounds such as protein, and it disrupts the methylation cycle, otherwise known as detoxification. MTHFR gene mutation also disrupts the body’s ability to make the master antioxidant, glutathione. When the body cannot detoxify properly the toxins build up in the body and cause a myriad of health problems. MTHFR is also responsible for creating the process of converting the amino acid homocysteine to methionine. Methionine is the amino acid our body uses to make proteins. With the MTHFR mutation metabolic issues are common, and so is the deficiency of folate, vitamin Methyl B12 , (vital for proper function of many things including methylation, digestion and food absorption), and pyridoxine (vitamin B6, for brain function and coping with stress), or mutations of related enzymes. Folate is natural and comes from food sources such as green vegetables, beans and other whole plant foods. It is responsible for synthesizing DNA, making red blood cells, transporting oxygen, and supports the functioning of our nervous and cardiovascular systems. Adequate B vitamins, including folate are also necessary for proper cognitive function. Folic acid is synthetic and commonly in multivitamins and fortified foods. This can cause excess to build in the body. The body has a limited ability to convert folic acid to folate. Too much folic acid can affect gene expression, may reduce immune system function, and exacerbate vitamin B12 deficiency. It is critical to make sure to check your multivitamin, because most will contain folic acid and not folate. With the MTHFR mutation it is important to reduce inflammatory foods from the diet such as gluten, dairy, processed carbohydrates and sugars. detoxification and the use of toxin binders can be very helpful. Common health issues related to a disruption in the MTHFR gene are: Food allergies Inflammation Alzheimer’s Cardiovascular problems ADD/ADHD thyroid issues Chronic fatigue Eczema Infertility Drug sensitivities Tactile sensitivity A couple of physical signs to look for that refer to MTHFR are: A sacral dimple. This would be on the top and center of the gluteal fold. A blue line in between the eyebrows. Tongue tie Click Here for more details.

In Dr. Judy Mikovits’ book, Plague of Corruption, the broader question is raised, “What is the enormous risk in using animal tissue in research and mixing of it with human tissue for the development of medical therapies while covering up the value of efficacies of natural product therapies like cannabis, homeopathy, energy therapies, and other medical plants?” What is a retrovirus? Retroviruses cannot replicate without a host. The difference between a virus and a retrovirus is the retrovirus’ ability to insert its own gene expression into the genes of the host. The virus binds to a receptor on the surface of the host cell. Then it uses reverse transcriptase enzyme to turn its RNA genetic material into DNA. This is necessary so it is compatible with its host to assure its survival. Now with the same DNA as the host it can invade the control center of cells called the nucleus. At this point it can now replicate itself creating new viral segments which can further invade the host’s cells and cause damage. After infecting a cell, a retrovirus uses an enzyme called reverse transcriptase to convert its RNA into DNA. The retrovirus then integrates its viral DNA into the DNA of the host cell, which allows the retrovirus to replicate. The most common retrovirus is the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV, which conveys an idea of how fatally dangerous retroviruses are. Study on retroviruses pseudotyped. Retroviruses pseudotyped with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus spike protein efficiently infect cells expressing angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Read the study. Please listen to my radio show interview with Dr. Judy Mikovits. It’s show # 73. Click Here for more details.

Early childhood dental caries (ECC) are the most chronic infection now among children between ages two and five. The culprit is sugar. ECC’s are about much more than just baby teeth. “Caries” is another term for cavities, and they can be prevented if you know what to do. The teeth effect the health of every system in the body. Infectious diseases from this are preventable. How do early childhood dental caries affect children? Children with autism very commonly have problems with their teeth due to poor absorption of nutrition from an ill gut, inflammation, toxicity, and internal infections including Lyme, mold biotoxins, PANS/strep and staph(MARCoNS). Their body is in a state of chronic stress. This in turn elevates the stress hormone called cortisol. There is a chronic inflammatory response from body infections or from untreated dental caries. Get your free mold and Lyme resource guide here. The behavioral impact on neural development continues on into adulthood if ECC’s are not properly treated. It’s now proven that adults with dental disease correlate to coronary heart disease. Microbes from periodontal disease are linked to inflammation in the brain and due to the brain’s response to the inflammation it creates various types of neural disruption and has been associated with Alzheimer’s. What makes us susceptible and what can we do to prevent ECC’s? If a parent has a history of bad teeth then the child is more susceptible. The gut also has an impact on the overall immune system and chronic infections. Staph infection in the nasal passageways, and other sinus infections drip bacteria into the moth causing decay so keeping the sinus’ clear and healthy is important. A xylitol spray can be even more helpful that a saline nasal spray. Early childhood prevention of dental carries begins at birth. The first dental visit should be at six months of age, and no later than age one. Be sure to see a pediatric dental specialist. There’s no need to wait until your child’s first tooth erupts to begin oral hygiene. Any remaining food, including breastmilk, left in the mouth can begin bacterial overgrowth. Wipe your child’s gums clean after each feeding of any kind. Never give a bottle to them at bedtime or to go to bed with. Know that milk and juices contain high amounts of sugar and can cause decay. It’s also important to supplement with adequate amounts of vitamin D3 for strong teeth and bones. What symptoms do I look for? A child with untreated ECC learns to think that tooth pain is normal. It may be why your child is a picky eater, or seems to be. Click Here for more details.

Tired of being on the meal planning treadmill? Learn how you can have healthy meals planned, and prepared ahead so you have more free time to spend with your family having fun, or just relaxing. You can build your own meal plan or have them designed for you with the variations offered from Once A Month Meals. To learn more about them and how they can help you save time and money go to NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/meals. Meet Tricia Callahan In 2009, I started a hobby, freezer-meal-planning blog (Once A Month Mom) to empower busy mothers, like myself, to make meals ahead. Fast forward 10 years, and my personal “mom” blog grew to be a thriving meal planning site, filled with an amazing team ready to help families make meals ahead and learn to freezer cook. Our mission is simple: help you never have to plan daily meals ever again! I use my “I don’t have to cook dinner nightly” time to play Minecraft with my 10-year-old Asperger’s son, craft with my 9-year old daughter and travel the world! Learn more, and sign up for once a month meals at, NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/meals Listen to my live radio show interview with Tricia. It’s radio show #71. Click Here for more details.

Omega-3’s are essential fatty acids, which means they cannot be made in the body, so they must be ingested. The essential fatty acids derived from omega-3 oils are DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid). Where DHA helps to build and protect the brain, EPA helps with the functioning of the brain. We need both. Some of the benefits of omega 3 fatty acids Omega-3 fatty acids help reduce inflammation in the brain and the body which can be helpful in gut health recovery, therefore improving the immune system. They help protect the mitochondrion which is like the insulation on a phone wire. This helps the transmission of vital information to get into the cell. They are necessary for neurotransmitters in the brain, and assist in cognitive ability and mood. Omega-3 fatty acids are commonly used for mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and aggressive or violent behavior. The essential or omega-3 fatty acid is DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). It is particularly important in brain health, synapse health, assisting the brains circuitry, and in its ability to function properly. Several studies have shown that low levels of DHA fats increase depression and that increasing its intake relieves it. (Weidner, Conner, Conner and Hollis, “Improvements in hostility and depression in relation to dietary change and cholesterol lowering.” Annuals Internal Medicine 117(1992):820-823.) Quick reference benefits of omega 3’s: improve the health of the colon assist in the detoxification process Brain protection optimizes brain function protects the myelin sheath helping connect brain messages increase thyroid hormone transfer to the brain helps fight free radical damage and oxidative stress strengthen the immune system reduce inflammation promote cardiovascular health improves eye function may help normalize calcium blood levels helping bones, teeth and muscle function may support normal blood triglyceride levels, normal blood pressure, and cell division Click Here for more details.

How does stem cell therapy work? Stem cell therapy has been utilized by parents of children with autism for its ability to modulate the immune response by slowing or stopping pathological immune responses, and having the ability to be antigen specific. It also assists with the defect in T cell numbers associated with autism. The lymphatic system are organs of the immune system with circulatory vessels and lymph nodes that transport bacteria fighting white blood cells to sites of infection in the body. Bone marrow of certain bones such as the pelvic bone, produce specialized cells that circulate throughout the immune system. There are two major types of lymphocytes, B cells that attach to foreign substances to mark them as targets for destruction by other cells, and T cells that can attack and destroy cells. T cells have the additional advantage of coordinating overall immune response. Is stem cell therapy safe? Stem cell therapy transports the bone marrow from healthy individuals to those in need of immune regulation. This can be safe, if done correctly. This is important to note that not all stem cell therapy is done properly or ethically, and the bone marrow of unhealthy individuals has been used in many countries without proper regulation. There are unethical clinics doing this and charging extreme amounts of money to unknowing patients. It is essential to be aware of foreign doctors from stem cell clinics holding numerous free seminars to recruit patients for their centers all over the United States. Is that legal? What precautions should parents take to not get roped in by dubious claims? In my radio show #69, with Dr. Joy Kong, specialist in stem cell therapy, we discuss these issues and how to know where you can go to find quality stem cell therapy from reputable and knowledgeable doctors. Click Here for more details.

Allergies to gluten are common with the mold genotype, non-coincidently, the same is true for those on the autism spectrum. The mold biotoxin issue is often referred to as chronic inflammatory response syndrome, or CIRS. It inflames all systems and organs of the body including the brain. Typical symptoms for those with the genetic mold defect: • Wake exhausted, never really getting a good nights sleep • Chronic fatigue blamed on stress or possible thyroid issue • Chronic pain • Trouble concentrating • Poor memory • Anxiety • ADD/ADHD • Cold hands and feet • Hormone imbalance • Frequent urination (more than 3-4 times per day). • Chronic headaches • Abdominal pain • Bed wetting • High immunoglobulin E (IgE) triggering asthma • Polyps in nose • Redness on hands and feet • Redness from one cheek over the nose to the other cheek • Blurred vision • Light sensitivity • Red eyes • Dizziness when standing quickly NOTE: Adults commonly have multiple symptoms, but children may only have one symptom present. The most common symptoms in children with the mold genotype are: • Chronic headaches that last more than one to two months • Fatigue for more than two weeks • Chronic abdominal pain • Bed wetting in children older than six years of age • Inattention and ADHD (once treated for biotoxin illness children often no longer need Ritalin). Testing for mononucleosis and H. pylori bacterium are important to rule out with symptoms of chronic fatigue and abdominal cramps, but it is important to remember the mold genotype illness mimics these symptoms as well. Note if either of the child’s parents had bed wetting issues as a child, or even as an adult. Be sure to get your FREE Lyme and mold resource guide. Tell me where to send it to you in the purple box below. Further resources: Please listen to radio show #68, where Dr. Jodie Dashore and I discuss the common infections and symptoms of mold biotoxins and how they relate to autism. It could be why your child is still sick. Additional radio show interviews on the coinfections of autism can all be found HERE: Radio Show #2 is on the comorbid symptoms. Radio Shows #7 and #34 are on mold biotoxins. Radio Show #11, 15, and 18 are focused on Lyme Disease. Click Here for more details.

Autism Treatment With Cannabis In an effort to find help for their child with autism many parents have turned to the use of high quality medical grade cannabis. Those who had resisted in the past due to stigmas attached to it have found new hope. For the treatment of the symptoms of autism parents have reported a greater ability in focus and concentration, increased ability to handle emotions such as rage and fears, friendlier and more socially aware, increased appetite, and better sleep. One lesser known fact about children with autism is that roughly fifty percent start having seizures around the onset of puberty. The best news lately for this issue is that cannabis is a solution for it that works for many individuals. Some of the newest and most enlightening studies regarding seizures, Crohns disease, pain, Parkinson’s disease, and cancer is in cannabis, that’s right, marijuana. Specific strains are used for specific needs. Before you think about it as only a drug that people use to get high, think again. Decades ago, in the 1970’s, Israel became the medical marijuana research capitol. There are two ingredients in cannabis; THC and CBD. Israel was the first to isolate the psychotropic portion of cannabis called THC, from the medicinal, non-intoxicating, CBD portion. Medical marijuana can have less than one percent THC and it has the potential to treat many diseases with NO HARMFUL SIDE EFFECTS! This is opposite of what the medical prescription drugs are doing. Every nineteen minutes there is a fatality due to accidental prescription medical overdoses. There are no reports of fatal marijuana overdoses, and it is less harmful or addictive, (less than nine percent), than alcohol. The science behind it tells us so far that the CBD or cannibal diol modulates chemical and electrical activity in the brain that quiets excessive activity causing seizures. Specific strains are used for different illnesses. In Israel over 10,000 patients are licensed to use marijuana medicinally. There are more than a dozen studies to treat illnesses such as post-traumatic stress disorder, Crohns disease, pain and cancer. Depending on the age or need of the patient, cannabis can be used like an herbal tincture in liquid form with only a few drops put under the tongue. Additional methods of delivery are as a topical cream, encapsulated, or added to food. Dr. Christopher Shade has developed a liposomal delivery system to allow for optimal absorption in the mouth. You can watch my interview with him about this here. Although the FDA has approved studies there are organizations who say there is no evidence that it is effective. These organizations include the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Institute of Drug Abuse. They block out the studies that are positive because it is not in their scope of beliefs. This can be the case with any organization. Changing beliefs is a difficult thing to do. I strongly encourage you to make your own educated decisions. Radio Show Interview To help with your education on CBD and cannabis, I have interviewed Dr. Christopher Shade, an expert on the medical benefits of CBD. In this radio show interview we deep dive into the many details on how CBD positively benefits the cells of the body, and the systems of the body including the immune system. CBD is also widely known to calm in cases of anxiousness and hyperactivity. Please listen to radio show #67. Click Here for more details.

Parenting a child with autism has many challenges. Lack of sleep, pressure from school and their staff, tantrums, anger outbursts, and a myriad of health issues create a life of pressure and uncertainty for them. Parents find themselves in need of support and tools to work with the ever-changing behavior of their child. What can a parent do to build their own resilience in this challenge? Resilience is the ability to react gracefully and decisively to a situation that is unexpected, deeply complex or brings uncertainty. In this radio show interview with Madelyn Blair, PhD, an expert in resilience training, we will offer some daily practices for both parents and for children with autism to assist in a more peaceful way of life. Please listen to radio show #66. In this interview we discuss the five principles to build resilience: Take 5 minutes of silence for yourself every day. Write a personal story every day-like a mirror of who you are. Social-find social support in your life like a loving family, a good friend, a community of like-minded parents. Seeking-nurturing your curiosity. Every day ask a question. Selection-Every day decide the most important thing to do as a person. Dr. Blair has practiced these principles successfully with parents of children with autism and with people with autism themselves. They focused on positive stories because the child knew she was different, but it helped her realize she was special, and brilliant. Decide to be happy, no matter what. It’s your decision. Points to help remember to do this are: Know who you are. Have in-depth knowledge in something. Be insatiably curious. Always have respect for others and acknowledge their strengths. When you feel overwhelmed and in the moment, remember to: Breathe. Pause and think of a time when you were successful. Create a visual image in your mind that you can pull up whenever you need it. Madelyn Blair, PhD Madelyn Blair, has a PhD in Sociology, with a concentration in Organizational Psychology–a discipline that applies psychological theory and principles to workplaces, business decisions and the well-being of employees. Click Here for more details.

I often hear, “I’ve had my boy on a diet of no gluten for a long time but he’s still not better. Why?” The reason is that his gut has not healed and he is not absorbing all nutrients so he’s deficient. There’s much more work to do than diet alone. Supplements and detoxification are necessary, but here’s where to begin. The co-infections prevent gut healing too so they must be addressed. (Mold, lyme, PANDAS/strep. There’s not enough hydrochloric acid in the stomach to assist digestion but also to kill any strep in the gut. What foods to remove first: Remove all processed carbohydrates and sugars such as dairy, wheat, corn, soy, sugar, (including fruit), MSG, food coloring, and eat only organic. Be patient. This takes time to slowly remove the bad foods and begin integrating more of the good ones. (NOTE: lyme and mold affect the gut too, so once they’re worked with it will help, but first we stabilize, so here are a few helpful tips along the way). Refusing to eat: Refusing to eat is a common issue because they are addicted to the sugars in the bad foods and the opiates created by gluten and casein. It is a very slow process to wean them off of them. Do I have to remove gluten and dairy? My child won’t eat anything else. Click Here for more details.

In this episode I interview Heidi Seastrand, expert in Neurofeedback. Heidi has a masters degree in clinical psychology and extensive training in Neurofeedback. She became a practitioner in this field due to her own personal challenges of ADD which it has helped to overcome. I took my own to Heidi for this non-invasive treatment and had immense benefits, so much so, that I have added it as part of my mentor program as, what I feel, is a necessity. Neurofeedback helps people of all ages to exercise their brainwaves and strengthen their mind to promote symptom reductions. It addresses symptoms related to stress, anxiety, attention, depression, anger management, sleep issues, and hyperactivity. The emphasis is on reducing symptoms and increasing long term success. It all depends on which part of the brain processes the information they are having trouble with. Neurofeedback doesn’t “fix” conditions, but improves brain regulation. Listen and learn how this computerized feedback technology can possibly improve your child’s life. It has for my son. Please also listen to radio show #64, with Heidi Seastrand on Neurofeedback. Click Here for more details.

Dietary intervention preconception for both mother and father can have a potentially large impact on a child’s development in utero and after birth. The state of the mother’s health and toxic exposure, as well as an overgrowth of candida in the gut can all be transferred to the fetus. This sets up a toxic dumping in the child’s delicate system which can lead to the symptoms of autism. The fetus can be born with susceptibilities that influence and become triggers for genetic mutations. Neurotoxic effects create many developmental delays including cognitive impairment, and speech delay. This, along with gut dysbiosis, all play a part. The gut controls the brain and is often referred to as “the second brain”. Also noted as infections that create susceptibility and can be transferred in utero and via breastmilk are the Comorbid Symptoms of Autism. Further Environmental Triggers Additionally, the effect of environmental toxins on the brain and neurological system are significant. For example, if a mother has mercury amalgam fillings and other heavy metal toxicity the fetus is used as a conduit for her bodies detoxification. Pesticides in food, toxic adjuvants in vaccinations, and exposure to electromagnetic field radiation are also involved. The overexposure to these environmental triggers are known to negatively effect the neurological system of the fetus, newborn and child. See EWG.org for further environmental toxins. 3 Steps To Take To Reduce The Toxic Load Reduce body burden by eating organically grown, non GMO foods and eliminating toxins from your home. Reduce inflammation-Dietary changes begin this first stage of detoxification. Support detoxification by supporting the liver, the lymphatic system, and the colon. Radio show Interview Please listen to my radio show interview with Registered Dietician, Geri Brewster, on the differences that dietary intervention can make both pre and post conception, radio show #63. Click Here for more details.

Holidaze During the holidays we tend to eat too many sweets which weaken our immune system. As much as we may enjoy the festivities our daily routines become even busier, we tend to get stressed and we don’t always get as much sleep as we need. Strengthen Your Immune System It is important to keep immunity strong, especially during the cold and flu season. Up to eighty percent of the immune system comes from the digestive tract. Poor eating habits, including too much sugar, will weaken the immune system. When we eat sugar and drink alcohol in excess, that feeds the bad bacteria in our gut such as candida albicans or yeast. Candida thrives on sugar! When candida is overgrown, it substantially weakens our immune system and increases the body’s toxic load. Probiotics And Omega 3 A key supplement that will assist the immune system and the gut are probiotics. Probiotics will assist in fighting both flu viruses and colds by building the strength of the necessary, healthy bacteria in the digestive tract. They will also help to crowd out the bad overgrown bacteria such as candida albicans. Click Here for more details.

Often when children are mysteriously not detoxing, in-spite of a ton of effort from the parent, here is whats helpful or what might be brewing underneath. Where to Begin You could start out with basic bloodwork and understanding labs keeping the broad picture in mind. Lyme is immune suppressing and often we don’t get the real picture of whats going on underneath. Mold toxins cause damage centralized in the brain where all the control centers are. Get your free resource guide to Lyme and mold. What Systems Can Be Affected These can have an endocrine effect and many children can have an underlying adrenal, thyroid, issues slowing things down. Yeast v/s phenols the similarities Magnesium, B vitamins, Thiamine and appetite, Methylation cycle B6 and the serotonin pathway PST sulfation pathway – connection to the genetic snips or SNP’s. Radio Show Interview In this interview with Dr. Dashore we will go over a few examples from labs and then we can talk about lyme bands a little bit more on detoxification, different symptoms that can arise and what you can do about it. Please listen to radio show #61. Click Here for more details.

Although used commonly in Europe and India, homeopathy is not quite as accepted in America mostly because it is not well understood. Although many studies have been done, those in who do not understand how it works disclaim it. This is just like anything else, so you need to be informed. Homeopathy is a very different concept to grasp. It is based on the Law of Similars. This law states that “a disease can be cured by a substance if that substance can cause, in a healthy person, symptoms similar to those of the disease.” The word homeopathy comes from homeo meaning similar and pathy meaning suffering. This excerpt was taken from the book, The Impossible Cure by Amy Lansky. It is my favorite book about homeopathy for two reasons: firstly, it is written for the layperson and is very easy to understand; secondly, the author, Amy Lansky, also has a child who “was” on the autism spectrum. After her son’s 18-month measles, mumps, rubella shot he began exhibiting symptoms of autism. Homeopathic remedies have since recovered him. For the whole story you can read all about it in her book, “The Impossible Cure.” It is filled with multiple studies on homeopathy. The rise in cases of autism coincides with the increase in vaccinations. Another benefit homeopathy offers is to remedy illnesses or damage that the body has been affected by from vaccinations. This is what happened with Amy Lansky’s son. Homeopathy can repair the damage done by vaccinations including the body’s response to allergies, asthma, and behavioral problems that are a result of vaccinations. A homeopathic remedy should help the body do what it needs to do. It is used to inspire the vital force. Homeopathy works on susceptibility. It comes from recognizing the weakness in the body that has already occurred and the symptoms that are already present. A “constitutional” remedy takes in both mental and physical components. The homeopathic doctor will take into account every aspect. The emotional and physical components are accounted for in order to help understand the larger picture of a person’s distress. Treatment is determined, generally, by matching symptoms. There is a common factor in that homeopaths take into account what is unusual about an individual’s pattern. Remedies are specific to each individual. Be patient, it can take some time for a good homeopath to find the proper remedy. Today, Amy’s son Max, is great. There have been no signs of his former autism since he was about 9 or 10. He is 28, living in LA, working as a motion graphics artist. Got his degree from the USC film school. Please listen to my radio show interview with Amy Lansky. It’s show #60. Click Here for more details.

Children with autism have congested liver and detoxification pathways. We must support these areas during the detoxification process. The Health of the Colon and Constipation The health of the colon, or the large intestine, is critical to overall health and proper detoxification. Daily bowel movements must release toxic material or it can be reabsorbed into the walls of the large intestine. Constipation allows for toxic reabsorption due to the extended amount of time the waste stays in the bowels. Proper amounts of water are needed to allow for the removal of waste including pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics in animal feed, and carcinogenic agents in the air we breathe. Dehydration and lack of proper fiber can cause constipation. The large intestine also absorbs minerals necessary for our health. An improperly working colon causes nutrient deficiencies. Overall gut healing is essential. The Effects of Toxins on Behavior The bowels effect behavior through toxic reabsorption, but they are also very sensitive to the neurotransmitters in the digestive tract. These brain signaling chemicals include adrenaline, norepinephrine, and serotonin. What About Fiber for Constipation? Fiber is essential when feces are moving well to keep digestion on track, but contrary to popular belief, if the bowel is constipated and lodged with waste, taking fiber often makes it worse. Fiber acts to further bind what is not moving. If you are constipated, aloe leaf is an excellent choice for getting things moving. Be sure to avoid binding foods such as gluten, cheese and red meat. Enemas and Colonics for Detoxification Enemas are helpful to release fecal matter from the lower portion of the large intestine via stimulation from the hemorrhoidal veins. Coffee enemas will stimulate the nerves in the liver and assist its detoxification processes. Colonic irrigation or colonics are an essential part of health.They gently remove old debris from the entire colon and its walls by cleansing it with distilled or purified water. Colonic hydrotherapy will flush the intestines much higher than an enema will. Colonics can be done as early as age six, although many children may not agree to this. If they do, be sure to see an Advanced Certified Colon Hydrotherapist. To find and I-ACT certified professional go to, www.i-act.org, or call (210) 366-2888. Your child must be willing to do this. A professional colonic hydrotherapist will be able to make your child feel as comfortable as possible. The first appointment may feel foreign to the child but once they feel how much better they are afterward they are often compliant to go again. Click Here for more details.

Children with autism often have low levels of iron due to leaky gut or poor absorption of nutrition which leads to anemia, but is supplementing with iron really the best choice? Zinc is commonly deficient too and it is necessary for multiple functions in the body, especially with respect to the strength of the immune system. Copper levels tend to often be higher than they should be. Copper can displace zinc and zinc can displace copper so we need to be sure there is a balance between the two. This imbalance can lead to multiple health issues including mast cell activation. In my radio show interview with Dr. Beth O’Hara, we discuss this delicate balance and what you can do about it for your child. Please listen to my live radio show interview with Dr. Beth O’Hara on The Roles of Iron, Zinc and Copper. It’s show #58. Dr. O’Hara also shares her personal story in this episode about how it was for her growing up with undiagnosed Asperger’s, how she coped, and how she has been able to improve her social abilities, create a thriving medical practice and have a happy marriage. Please listen to radio show #58. Click Here for more details.

Ozone therapy can be very beneficial for children with autism. It is anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial. Ozone stimulates your own body to activate its antioxidant power to fight infection. It decreases free radicals so that they are no longer harmful. Benefits of Ozone Therapy Ozone therapy can assist and improve issues with medical problems, behavioral issues, the GI tract, immune system, and endocrine (hormonal) systems, and dental decay. It has also been known to help with sleep, aggression, anxiety, and speech delay. How Ozone Therapy Is Used Ozone is well tolerated but it is best to do work with diet and detoxification first to reduce possible issues with die off reactions. Ozone is administered with a stethoscope into the ear or rectally. IV’s are also a method used if the child is able and willing. Frequency of therapy for infections such as bartonella from Lyme disease would be for eight weeks, at once per week. This is often a mix of the person’s blood with ozone and then injected. Resources for Ozone Therapy Suppliers: Longevity Resources in Canada Directory for doctors: For a list of medical professionals in ozone therapy go to, AEPromo.org, (an International directory). Learn about Biosystemic Dentistry. Radio Show Interview with An Expert On Ozone Therapy Please listen to my radio show interview with Dr. Karima Hirani on the benefits of ozone therapy. It’s show #57. Click Here for more details.

A Doctor of Chiropractic works to benefit the person as a whole. Issues can easily arise in neurodevelopment, physiology, and emotionally when there are skeletal misalignments, especially within the spinal cord and cranial bones. When there is nerve disruption it can cause a myriad of symptoms. For example, if the upper portion of the neck is out of alignment and pressing on the vagus nerve it can create issues with digestion, anxiousness and respiration. Children with autism can benefit greatly from the expertise of a chiropractic doctor. Please listen to my live radio show interview with doctor of chiropractic, Daniel Bronstein, who also specializes in working with children with autism spectrum disorders. It’s radio show #56. Daniel Bronstein, D.C. Bio Dr. Daniel Bronstein graduated Magna Cum Laude from the Southern California University of Health Sciences in 2010 having cultivated an acute appreciation for the care of children. Throughout his professional career, Dr. Bronstein has devoted the core of his practice towards helping sick kids, specializing on the management of chronic birth trauma and pelvic distortion in pregnancy. He is certified by the Academy Council in Chiropractic Pediatrics and in Webster technique by the International Chiropractic Pediatrics Association. Dr. Bronstein is a sought-after lecturer and instructor and has published multiple articles and editorials on the science and philosophy of chiropractic. He has also performed research on the safety and efficacy of chiropractic care for several agencies, including the Traditional Medicine Unit of the World Health Organization. He is the director of the Beacon Clinic of Chiropractic in Grover Beach CA – a principled, destination clinic for children and families – and continually engages in research, political advocacy and community activism. For more information, see Dr. Bronstein’s website at www.chirobeacon.com. Click Here for more details.

I am asked questions about diet and pathogenic bacteria more than anything else. In my program, I suggest removing sugars and processed carbohydrates from the diet, along with adding in the healthy, gut healing foods. One mom asked about cutting out all sugars, and how to know if and when her daughter’s candida is under control. She wrote, “She (her daughter) doesn’t know how to spit in a glass of water (candida spit test), therefore, I do not know when I can introduce fruit back into her diet, especially when making her very healthy smoothies in the morning. A little fruit is what helps make them tolerable to drink with all the bitter greens, vegetables and herbs. We are trying to avoid expensive tests, but if you think this is what we need to do we will. Please include details of what kind of tests we need to do if that’s our only option.” Click Here for more details.

Genes are the blueprint, present at conception, that provide the instructions on how to build and operate our minds and bodies. We all have tens of thousands of genetic changes, called variants. Many have no effect, while others determine us to be unique individuals. Some of these variants act as risk factors for disease, either decreasing (resilience) or increasing (susceptibility) the chances of developing different disorders. However, genes are not the only factor leading us to be the individual we are, and acting to decrease or increase the risk for disease. Environment is also critically important. Genes and environment act together in the development of health and disease, and act on each other. For example, environmental factors frequently affect the “expression” of genes, including when and where specific genes are activated. A partial list of environmental factors that act on genes includes physical and emotional trauma, infection, diet, exercise, drugs (both legal and illegal) and toxins. Autism is not a single disorder, but a behaviorally-defined concept that can be caused by a variety of conditions that affect the brain. Autism is a highly genetic condition, in that genetics comprises most of the cause. There are thousands of genes implemented in autism, and different individuals have different genes that are involved in why that individual is affected. Despite this large, and highly varied, genetic component, environment is also a factor in terms of who will develop autism, and the degree of the disorder. However, manipulation of the environment frequently can play an important role in healing autism. As each individual has different genes involved in causing their disease, the number of environmental therapies (“treatments”) is large. The primary question is which treatments will most likely benefit a given individual patient. To answer this question best, one needs to identify the genes involved in that person’s disease. This is where genetic testing comes in. The power and promise of genetic testing has improved dramatically in recent years, even over the last year or two, in terms of what it can offer families. Improvement can be in “core” autism areas (e.g. attention, language, behavior, anxiety, etc.) and/or outside the core (GI, fatigue, pain, depression, seizures, etc.). In many cases, the degree of improvement is remarkable, while in others it can be intermediate, subtle, or absent. Live radio show interview with Dr. Richard Boles on Genetic Testing Options In my live radio show interview with Dr. Richard Boles, we dive deep into the options for genetic testing, what to look for, and what those results can tell you. Please listen to the entire interview. It’s show #54. We discuss how genetic testing has dramatically improved in terms of what it can offer families, along with a substantial reduction in price, and what families should know about when they consider genetic testing. Click Here for more details.