-
@ lowcarbdoctor
2023-09-17 13:41:02While I am a fully licensed physician in Kansas, this communication does not constitute personal medical advice or establish a physician-patient relationship. See your own physician to discuss your particular diagnosis and treatment
Autism Definition: A developmental disorder that includes difficulty with social interaction, communication and restricted repetitive patterns of thought and behavior. Incidence: Per the CDC in 2021, 1 and 44 children in the US is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. To break this down, 1 and 27 boys and 1 in 116 girls are affected. Some of the first autism prevalence studies conducted in the 1960s and 70s in Europe and United States reported 2-4 cases per 10,000 children. Incidence has markedly increased. One might argue that recognition of the disorder is responsible for the increased incidence, however, other environmental factors such as diet, nutrition, and toxins likely are responsible for the increased incidence, especially noting the link with PCOS in mothers.
Cause: GABAergic purkinje neuron death, mitochondrial dysfunction-excessive glutamate, massive action potentials, hormonal modulation(4x more prevalent in boys, ?protection with estrogen), link between mother’s with PCOS and autistic boys (35% increased incidence), possible role of apoptosisAn area of ongoing continued research
No clinical evidence that vaccinations cause autism.
Treatments: Omega 3 fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)): mackerel, salmon, sardines, anchovies, cod liver oil, herring, eggs, walnuts, chia seed, brussels sprout. Mechanism of action is unknown. Neural tissue contains high concentrations of DHA. Studies suggest this helps to assist with growth and development of the brain and neuron signaling by improving membrane stability. Omega-3 fatty acids also exert an anti-inflammatory effect. Low-carbohydrate, high fat diet. This diet can result in production of ketone bodies to use for fuel. -Ketones are more efficient energy than glucose. Ketones increase mitochondrial efficiency and production. -Ketones increase GABAergic (Gamma-aminobutyric acid) tone and decrease Glutamateric tone. Increasing GABAergic tone results in inhibition of neurotransmission, improves sleep, improves anxiety, “calming effect”. Glutamate can damage or kill nerve cells if overactive. Excessive glutamate has also been associated with the following conditions: ALS, MS, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, stroke, fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue syndrome. Mental health conditions associated with a glutamate disorder include: Anxiety, autism, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia. -Ketones increase the release of BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), promotes survival and maintenance of nerve cells. Gut micro biome health appears to be linked to neurologic functioning. You can use Prebiotics to improve the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Some examples include: Artichoke, garlic, onions, leeks, and asparagus. Probiotics help to restore gut bacteria with fermented foods. Some examples include: Yogurt, Kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, apple cider vinegar, and certain cheeses (Swiss, provolone, Gouda, cheddar, cottage cheese). Keep in mind that if these products are not refrigerated, then they are likely preserved and not as beneficial for your health. It is important to prevent these products from being light exposed for extended time periods.
Vitamin and mineral deficiency correction-possible deficiencies include: zinc, iron, magnesium, and iodine. Folic acid-conflicting study results, higher than normal levels double autism risk Vitamin B12-higher than normal levels triples the autism risk
Mental health provider can help with behavior and organizational tools and at times medications
I hope this information helps you and your loved ones!
Jason Williams, D.O.