Autism

Autism 

Usually diagnosed in early childhood, Autism is a Developmental Disorder that can show itself as a diverse set of Symptoms.  The exact cause of Autism is not known but there is some Evidence that a combination of immune dysfunction, gastrointestinal abnormalities, Dietary habits, Toxic Exposure and other factors can all interact with genetic and environmental factors to influence the expression of autism.  Because autism varies in each child, it is sensible to try and evaluate each individual separately for their own particular contributing factors.  The following tests can be carried out here at Private General Practice Services.

• This may pose a threat to healthy neurological development. Heavy metal testing can be carried out via analyses of hair, blood or urine.  Nutritional adequacy of minerals can also be assessed. 

Autistic children may be less able to Handle and eliminate toxic metals and maybe more susceptible to heavy metals absorption due to various mineral deficiencies.

• We can carry out a Urine sample which to check for amino acids and also organic acids.

Evidence Suggests that diet and assimilation play key roles in the development of autism.  Amino acids (which come from protein) are the chemical-building blocks or key Neurotransmitters that work on the brain to influence mood and behaviour.  The ability to digest and absorb and then use amino acids is also dependent upon a Number of cofactors (vitamins and minerals) and these can be assessed through the metabolic analysis profile.  This evaluates for critical areas of Metabolism. 

• Gastrointestinal function.
• Cellular energy production.
• Neurotransmitter processing.
• Amino acid/organic acid balance as influenced by Vitamin and mineral cofactors.

The proper balance of all these nutrients is essential for the healthy emotional and cognitive development of children and for this reason this urine test is very Important one in trying to assess a child’s need.

• Autistic children often Develop chronic digestive problems that can be linked to changes in mood and behaviour.

Digestive enzyme deficiencies, inflammation and overgrowth of infections in the bowel are common findings in autism.  We are able to provide a test which provides a Non-Invasive Assessment of these areas and can be used to develop Individualised Treatment Strategy to improve function and reduce symptoms in the gastrointestinal tract. 

The intestinal lining integrity plays a critical role in absorbing nutrients and preventing toxins, allergens and other potentially Harmful molecules from entering into the general Circulation of the body. 

• Significant imbalance of the fatty acids in red blood cell membranes have been reported in patients with autism.  The precursor to fatty acid must be supplied by the diet and the body must be able to properly metabolise these fats.  We are able to Measure the presence of essential and metabolic fatty acids and can advise regarding any adjustments that are needed.

Care givers of autistic children often report that certain foods can exacerbate their children’ symptoms.  There are different mechanisms of trying to assess food hypersensitivity.  None of the tests available are gold standard but the Tests that we use in the Practice are the IgE-mediated test, IgG and if you need to discuss these further please do not hesitate to contact us.  We also like to Exclude the possibility of coeliac disease.  Results then can be used to help individualise the diet plan that eliminates provoking substances until the underlying upregulation of the immune system has settled. 

Dr Julia Piper BM, BS, BMedSci, MRCGP, DFFP, DipOccMed, DipAccMed

If you have a query or would like to email us please go to our contact us page.

If you would like to book an appointment please call us on 0844 800 8673 or email info@privategp.com.

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