Autism is a mental health condition that is also known as Asperger’s Disease. Many gifted and talented children and adults may suffer from autism. They may have impairments with social interactions and may seem different to the common person who knows nothing about Autism. Individuals with autism may also deal with racing thoughts and suffer from sleep disturbances.
Many people with autism find that conventional approaches such as starting an antidepressant help their symptoms to calm down. Two antidepressant medications that work for this condition are Prozac and Zoloft.
If you are a loved one suffer from Autism Spectrum Disorder, there are other options available. Natural approaches are often needed to correct imbalances and help with relaxation for these individuals.
Detox and Unclutter for Autism Support
It is advised to start with detoxing the body, which in turn, will help clear toxins and waste out of the body and brain. You can try detox powders from a local natural foods store and eat more fruits and vegetables with plenty of water a day. A nutrient perfect for detoxification is spirulina. It is a powerhouse of everything the body needs to function and detox properly in micronutrient amounts, such as vitamins, minerals, probiotics. Not to forget its chelating and powerful detoxification properties. You may be able to find a greens powder with spirulina or chlorella to help with your detoxification journey.
It is important to note that many people suffering from autism are undermethylated. Spirulina or detox powders won’t be optimal for these individuals. You may detox your body instead with the supplements SAM-e or methionine and eat right for this biotype, such as more meats, and other animal protein foods.
You will also want to clear your home of clutter and keep it clean, organized and simplified. Try to purify your air and space as well. Open windows and let fresh air into your home often. You will want to use simple and basic cleaning products such as laundry detergent, cleaning products, soaps, and lotions. Try fragrance-free first as many fragrance products as cause irritation to the skin and the senses. You can check out my aromatherapy post for more ideas.
Supplements that May Help Autism
Once you have begun detoxing your body, clearing your home of clutter, and purifying your space and body, you can incorporate supplementation into your daily routine. But be advised, not every supplement works for every individual with autism. Listen to your mind and body on what works for your or your loved ones’ specific needs.
GABA is a neurotransmitter that is important for many suffering from Autism. You can find GABA supplements at your natural foods store in the supplement section. There are GABA supplements online as well. Another nutrient that may pose a benefit for Autism is the supplement L-theanine. This supplement also increases levels of GABA as well as increasing serotonin and dopamine levels. It is thought that these neurotransmitters may play a role in autism. This supplement will calm down the excitatory neurotransmitters such as glutamate and relax the mind and body.
There was a study done on autistic individuals who were administered GABA and l-theanine in the form of natural oolong tea. GABA showed more promise than the l-theanine group. You can read about the study here.
A natural approach for autism is the supplement melatonin for sleep disturbances. Melatonin is an excellent addition for individuals suffering from any type of sleep disturbance as may be seen in autistic individuals.
Another supplement that can help is magnesium. Magnesium is known to be deficient in many people suffering from mental illness. This mineral can help with anxiety by increasing serotonin levels in the brain similar to an antidepressant such as Prozac or Zoloft. It can be used as a muscle relaxant as well to help with movement problems also sometimes seen in autistic people.
Also, as mentioned in the above section, spirulina, detox powders, SAM-e or methionine may be beneficial.
Autism is treatable and there are natural approaches to healing. Please stay informed about your options for healing your mind or your loved ones, naturally.
References:
Hannant, Cassidy, Renshaw, Joyce. “A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized-designed GABA tea study in children diagnosed with autism spectrum conditions: a feasibility study clinical trial registration: ISRCTN 72571312. 24 Jan. 202: 45-61.