Long Term Functional Improvement from an Achievable Diet and Nutrition Protocol
A new study by researchers at multiple universities has found that a comprehensive dietary and nutritional regimen is effective at reducing symptoms of autism, increasing functioning level and reducing associated gastrointestinal (GI) problems. The regimen is safe, uses readily available products, and can be implemented by the average family. Lead investigator James Adams of Arizona State University and colleagues tested a combination of supplementation with vitamins and minerals, essential fatty acids, sulfate through epsom salt baths, carnitine, and digestive enzymes, as well as a “healthy” diet. The creation of the treatment protocol was based on prior research showing effectiveness of each of the components individually. This study was the first to test them as a combined treatment over a period of one year. The goal was to determine if the components together would have an even greater positive effect than that reported for each individually. Another goal was to measure the effects of the diet and nutrition protocol over a longer period of time, as these types of interventions may take longer to show an effect than a standard drug.
Canada Announces Autism Prevalence Study Results – On Time and Going Up
While America’s attention has been focused on its southern border, our northern neighbors have announced the results of a Canadian autism prevalence study. The study received little attention in the U.S., despite its relevance to our situation here. The study found the prevalence of an autism spectrum disorder among Canadian children to be 1 in 66, or 15.2 per 1000 children. The study results were announced by the Public Health Agency of Canada and survey data was collected in 2015 and covered 40% of the Canadian school-aged population ages 5-17. Seven of the 13 provinces/territories in Canada participated in the survey.
Tell the EPA No More Glyphosate!
Here’s your chance to speak up for your children’s health. The EPA is asking for public comment to assess whether or not risk evaluations conducted for glyphosate need to be revised. Glyphosate is the active ingredient in Roundup – now the most heavily used herbicide world-wide. Simply put – Yes, the risk evaluations for glyphosate […]
Autism’s Co-Occurring Conditions: Time to Act
The evidence is piling up on the severe burden of health problems that accompany autism spectrum disorder (ASD). These problems are often unrecognized and not addressed. According to a new study from scientists with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), “the high prevalence and diversity of co-occurring conditions/symptoms in ASD suggest the need for a comprehensive system of care for these children.”
Make A Difference – Safe Water Matters
By Jackie Lombardo, SafeMinds Research Committee Member You’ve likely been reading more about lead in drinking water since the Flint, Michigan water crisis. Yes, lead is bad. Too many cases of preventable lead poisoning continue to occur in the U.S. Rich, poor, old, and young; it doesn’t matter. Lead affects us all. Here’s what you […]
Cannabis for Autism: Biological Clue to Effectiveness
Many parents are reporting success using cannabis for their child with autism. A new study by researchers at Stanford University gives a clue to why cannabis might be effective for the person with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The study, “Plasma anandamide concentrations are lower in children with autism spectrum disorder,” found reduced amounts of a neuromodulator, anandamide (N-arachidonoylethanolamine or AEA), in the blood of 60 children with ASD compared to 56 neurotypical control children. The children were ages 3-12 years. The ASD group had a confirmed autism diagnosis. The typical controls had no history of neurodevelopmental or mental health problems.
