This article gives an overview of research on alternative and complementary therapies for autism.
Many parents of children with autism are interested in complementary and alternative medical therapies (CAM). The authors of this article suggest that this could be because these methods are perceived as treating the cause, rather than the symptoms, of the disorder. The authors divide CAM approaches to autism into two groups: biologic and non-biologic treatments. Biologic treatments use nutritional supplements or dietary restrictions to change the physical processes underlying autism, while non-biologic treatments are intended to change behaviors without altering the diet. The article describes the scientific evidence for and against the use of many biologic treatments, including: food restrictions based on allergies; gluten- and casein-free diets; yeast-free diets; vitamin C; folate; vitamin B6; tryptophan, oxytocin; and essential fatty acids (EFAs). The non-biologic treatments described in the article are: auditory integration training; behavioral optometry; craniosacral manipulation; and facilitated communication.
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What are alternative autism therapies?
Oct 4, 2006 by AnonymousMany parents are interested in alternative therapies for autism because they are seen as less invasive or more natural than traditional therapies. Alternative therapies can include both biologic and non-biologic treatments. Biologic treatments include herbs, foods, drugs, or supplements, including vitamin C. These treatments are usually meant to make the immune system, gut, and/or brain function better. Non-biologic alternative therapies include auditory integration training, behavioral optometry, craniosacral manipulation, and facilitated communication. Therapies are typically considered alternative if they are outside of evidence-based mainstream medical practice. Some parents choose alternative therapies not as an alternative to traditional medicine, but rather to complement traditional medicine.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has acknowledged that many parents of children with autism explore alternative therapies, and suggests that pediatricians learn more about the safety and effectiveness of the therapies selected (AAP Committe on Children with Disabilities, 2001). Read the report .