Autism Spectrum Disorders

Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired social interaction, difficulty with language and communication, and repetitive behavior. Early signs of autism may appear in infancy or toddlerhood, with symptoms becoming more pronounced as the individual gets older. Some infants develop normally until around 18 to 24 months and then they stop gaining new skills or lose skills they once had. 

Although there is no cure for autism, treatments for the disorder can help reduce symptoms and improve communication and social skills. Examples of interventions include educational therapies, speech-language therapy, occupational therapy, behavioral therapies, nutrient therapy, dietary interventions, and medication management. 

Symptoms of autism and autism spectrum disorders can vary depending on the individual and range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include

• Difficulty communicating
• Impaired social interaction
• Repetitive behaviors or limited interests
• Restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior
• Speech & language delays
• Avoidance of eye contact
• Sensory sensitivities
• Anxiety or depression.

Other signs may include unusual reactions to the environment, trouble controlling emotions or a lack of empathy.

Autism has been formally classified into three major categories: Autistic Disorder, Pervasive Developmental Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS), and Asperger’s. 

• Autistic disorder is characterized by difficulties with social interaction, communication and repetitive behaviors.
• PDD-NOS involves symptoms of autism in some areas but does not meet the criteria for any other specific autism spectrum disorders. 
• Though the most recent edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) includes Asperger’s as part of the broader Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis, this designation is not based upon the more current scientific studies or research evidence. Symptoms of Asperger’s includes an inability to recognize social and emotional cues, but strong intellectual capacity is generally preserved.

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a broad range of conditions that involve developmental difficulties in communication, social interaction and behavior. People on the spectrum may have difficulty forming relationships, understanding social cues, regulating emotions or managing stress. There is wide variability in the types of challenges faced by individuals living with an autism spectrum disorder.

Treatment for autism spectrum disorder typically involves a combination of therapies and supports. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps individuals with autism learn to recognize, label and regulate their emotions. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) is a therapy that uses positive reinforcement to help people with autism learn new skills. With ABA Therapy the organization of synapses between nerves in the brain and in the cortex are stimulated. 

Speech-language, occupational and physical therapies can also be helpful in enhancing communication and motor skills. Other treatments may include medications, vitamins and supplements, diet modifications, sensory integration therapy and assistive technology.

An orthomolecular understanding of Autism views the condition as caused by challenges in physiological and biochemical systems, often due to nutrient dysregulation in the body. These include but are not limited to gastrointestinal challenges, malabsorption, hypoglycemia, yeast toxicity, food sensitivities, oxidative stress, elevated copper, low zinc, and a number of methylation issues. The presence of these agents makes cellular activity and cellular function rather challenging. As the brain and body succumbs to these stressors, it becomes less pliable, less functional, and thus more prone to the development of symptoms associated with ASD. 

There is hope for parents and families, and early intervention is essential. We typically see zinc deficiency, copper toxicity, vitamin D deficiency, challenges with vitamin B6 processing, undermethylation, yeast overgrowth, and severe oxidative stress. These are all elements that can negatively effect behavior in patients with autism. Mensah Medical’s individualized Advanced Nutrient Therapy is aimed at normalizing the child’s body-brain chemistry, dealing with digestive issues and food and chemical sensitivities, and reducing brain inflammation. 

Our treatment approach is targeted to correct undermethylation and other biochemical imbalances, and reduce oxidative stress. The treatment of toxic metals is done naturally and slowly through antioxidant and nutrient therapies. Supplements such as magnesium, zinc, B-vitamins and antioxidants may be used to support brain health. Additionally, has been studied for treating symptoms related to autism. Ultimately, the long term prognosis for nutrient therapy is very good in Mensah Medical’s adult and adolescent population diagnosed with autism. Sensory, behavior, and speech issues tend to change over time with prolonged treatment. 

Mensah Medical encourages families to begin Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy by an ABA-trained therapist in conjunction with using their individualized nutrient protocol. We do not practice harsh chelation methods at Mensah Medical. 

Early intervention in Autism Spectrum Disorders is vital for optimal recovery. If your child has been diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder or you suspect your child is experiencing developmental delays, seek the help of Mensah Medical. An early red flag is noticing that your child does not respond to his or her own name by their first birthday.

Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is typically based on an evaluation of a person’s behavior and development. A diagnosis may involve interviews with parents or caregivers to assess the individual’s social interaction, communication, and other behaviors associated with ASD. Additionally, psychological testing may be used to measure IQ, language abilities, and other cognitive skills.

Treatments may help improve symptoms and encourage positive behavior. Lifestyle and home remedies that can be used to help reduce ASD symptoms include:

• Creating a structured environment with consistent routines
• Providing supervision while engaging in activities
• Petting up individualized rewards systems
• Practicing mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing and yoga
• Utilizing communication approaches including sign language, picture symbols, and visual cues
• Playing with objects that stimulate the sense of touch
• Getting regular physical activity
• Supporting social skills development through playdates. 

Nutrition adjustments include:

• Vitamin supplementation to restore balance in the body
• Proper hydration
• Elimination of processed sugars and refined carbohydrates
• choosing hormone-free animal products
• Limiting sources of mercury & copper found in fish. 
• Balancing Fatty Acid Metabolism
• Use of probiotics

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex condition with no known cure, though symptom recovery is possible. There are various alternative treatments for ASD that may provide therapeutic benefits, such as: music therapy; massage therapy; sensory integration therapy; equine-assisted therapy; art and creative therapies (e.g. drama, dance); occupational therapy; cognitive behavior therapy (CBT); biochemical treatments to address nutritional deficiencies or food sensitivities; acupuncture; herbal remedies and homeopathy; aromatherapy and other holistic approaches. These therapies may be used in combination with mainstream treatment plans or alone, depending on the individual’s needs.

Prior to your first appointment at Mensah Medical, you will be required to complete a new patient intake form as well as a patient history form. These forms must be submitted to Mensah Medical before an appointment can be scheduled. For Outreach Clinic appointments these forms must be submitted one week before the scheduled Outreach. For established patients, prior to your follow up you will be required to complete a progress report. This must be submitted via your Elation Passport at least 72 hours before the appointment.