Autism Therapy: immune system

definition of immune system: System in the body that normally fights infections and other diseases such as cancer.

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Official Journal of the European Paediatric Neurology Society, by Mordekar, SR, Prendergast M., Chattopadhyay AK, and Baxter PS, published in 2009, summarized Dec 14, 2009

An immune system suppressant (corticosteroid) may help some children on the autism spectrum.

Two 4-year-old children had a rapid onset of childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD). They had a change in personality, loss of speech, and withdrew from people. They also had seizures. The authors treated them with the corticosteroid prednisolone, and their symptoms gradually disappeared over the next 4 years. Prednisolone acts to reduce inflammation and calm down the immune system, and may have other effects. The doctors found no sign of inflammation in their nervous system. The doctors do not know why the medication worked for these children.


Expert Opinions in Pharmacotherapy, by Theoharides, TC, Kempuraj D., and Redwood L., published in 2009, summarized Dec 4, 2009

Scientists are learning that the immune system may contribute to autism symptoms, and may be a good target for autism therapies.

The immune system is the system in the body that fights infections. Scientific evidence is building that tells us that the immune system might contribute to some autism symptoms. Studies show that people with autism have signs of inflammation (turned-up immune system), including inflammation in the brain. Some people with autism had antibodies (immune-active proteins) against brain proteins. If the immune system is important, new drug therapies to help balance the immune system might be helpful.


Current Allergy and Asthma Reports, by Jyonouchi, H., published in 2009, summarized Sep 15, 2009

Probiotics may help to relieve gut problems in children with autism.

This review article describes proposed causes of gut problems in children with autism and describes the risks and benefits of treatments. There are a lot of data to support that children with autism have a chronic immune response in their gut. Many parents treat the gut problems with the gluten-free, casein-free (GFCF) diet even though there is not a lot of data to support the use of the diet. While there is some concern that the GFCF diet may not provide all needed vitamins to children, this concern is not backed by data. Treatment with probiotics makes sense, but it has not been proven to work in scientific studies of children with autism.


Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, by Handen, BL, Melmed RD, Hansen RL, Aman MG, Burnham DL, Bruss JB, and McDougle CJ, published in 2009, summarized Jul 14, 2009

Oral immune therapy does not seem to improve digestive problems in children with autism.

People with autism may have digestive problems like diarrhea or constipation. One theory is that digestive trouble is due to inflammation (overactive immune system) in the gut. The authors tested whether oral immunoglobulin treatment might calm down the immune system in the gut and improve symptoms of autism. This study was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled. Oral immunoglobulin or placebo was given to 125 children (2-17 years old) for 12 weeks. There was no significant (noticeable) difference in digestive troubles between treated children and controls. The authors also said that the possible link between autism and digestive problems is still controversial. They said that there are not enough scientific studies to know whether there is a link. While some children with autism have digestive trouble, there are also many children without autism who have digestive troubles.


Dr. Janet Lintala, a DAN! doctor, has seen results in children with autism who utilize her Autism Recovery Resource Center in West Virginia. Dr. Lintala opened the biomedically focused clinic in 2008, and is now receiving children from all over the region. Therapies included at the clinic are: gluten-free and casein-free diets, mild hyperbaric oxygen therapy,  antifungal therapy, detoxification therapies, and other therapies to strengthen the immune system. In addition, there are lab facilities to test stool, urine, hair and blood. Dr. Lintala suggests that no one therapy is the answer for a child with autism, and says, "We encourage parents to explore options that will help their child, such as speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, applied behavioral analysis, behavioral therapy and others." Dr. Lintala's goal is a "multi-specialty, state-of-the art regional center where families can find everything from a diagnosis to educational materials; . . . where a cure is offered."

Read original article.


Dr. Bryan Jepson, an Austin, TX physician and father of a child with autism, recommends a 3-level plan of treatment: "replace what the child is missing; remove what is causing harm; and break the inflammatory cycle." He suggests treating symptoms of the gut, the brain, and the immune system. Especially important is nutrition; children with autism should receive enough of the right vitamins, including omega-3 fatty acids (essential fatty acids (EFA)).

Read original article.


A Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Research on Human Development study reports that a single gene mutation doubles a child's susceptibility to autism. There are multiple theories on why seemingly normal children seem to lose abilities they possessed and withdraw. This research suggests that the MET gene, with other vulnerable genes, and environment, may precipitate the onset of autism. Many parents have reported that their children suffered from gastrointestinal and immune disorders; it is not clear whether this is linked with autism. However, investigation into the MET gene may provide some light. The MET gene and MET receptor are important for brain growth, brain maturation, immune function and digestive repair. Read more .



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Living Gluten Free – Right to Heal

Feb 22, 2010 by karmic health

By Sandi Star, CCN


After struggling for over 40 years with chronic migraines, IBS, Muscle and joint pain, fatigue, brain fog, asthma and a slew of other ailments and frustrations I decided to take a closer look at the cause rather than obsessing on the symptoms. I was tired of relying on doctors to give me answers and tired of the medications that only gave me side affects and little relief.


I had been committed to health and fitness for over 20 years, losing close to 50 pounds and 5 dress sizes, however I still had all the chronic conditions that played havoc in my life. I realized there was a key element missing and soon found out it was my reaction to gluten and dairy. I didn't know enough about food intolerance or allergies or at least put the two together. I never believed food could have such a serious impact on overall health let alone be the direct cause of my diseases. With what I know today I’m surprised my doctor didn’t put the connection together when he diagnosed me with Sjögren’s Syndrome (autoimmune disease). Sjögren’s is one of the symptoms of Celiac along with a long list as you will see below and nutrition plays a critical role in the healing process. By making the appropriate diet changes – (gluten and dairy free), I’ve managed to eliminate my migraines, IBS………etc., etc., and have the Sjögren’s Syndrome under control. Even better, I have eliminated all medications and use food and natural remedies for nutrition and overall health. Now that you know why I became a clinical nutritionist and why I started Karmic Health lets get into the details of why it’s so important to understand gluten and its relation to diseases.


Why the problem with gluten now? A lot has changed in the way we harvest food compared to 50 years ago. Some of the seed companies began engineering wheat kernels that could be more easily ground and produce fluffier flour to make the soft, delicious white bread for example had to have greater yields; it made more money for the farmer and increased sales.


Gluten is a composite of the proteins gliadin and glutenin. These exist, conjoined with starch, in the endosperms of some grass-related grains, notably wheat, rye, and barley.


Understanding what happens in the body and some of the symptoms will help millions of people who go undiagnosed. Celiac is the most common genetic disease of mankind (yet for every person diagnosed, 140 will go undiagnosed).


A wheat allergy is the body’s abnormal autoimmune response to a certain protein component of wheat; it’s exhibited by a severe sudden onset allergic reaction. Usual symptoms are immediate coughing, asthma, breathing difficulties, and/or projectile vomiting. It can cause life-threatening responses in allergic people. A true Wheat allergy affects less than 1/2 % of population. 


Intolerance's are much more common than true food allergies but are harder to diagnose. Food intolerance is an adverse reaction to food that does not involve the body's immune system. Generally food intolerance is an inability to properly digest certain foods. In some cases food passes right through the body before digestion is complete.


Leaky Gut is an increase in permeability of the intestinal mucosa to luminal macromolecules, antigens, and toxins associated with inflammatory degenerative and/ or atrophic mucosa or lining. Put more simply, large spaces develop between the cells of the gut wall allowing bacteria, toxins and food to leak into the bloodstream. Leaky Gut Syndrome has also been linked with many conditions, such as: Celiac Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, Fibromyalgia, Autism, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Eczema, Dermatitis, and Ulcerative Colitis. 


Celiac disease is an autoimmune disease caused by an inappropriate immune response to dietary proteins found in wheat, rye, and barley (gluten and


gliadin). This response leads to inflammation of the small intestine and to damage and destruction of the villi that line the intestinal wall. These villi are projections (small folds) that increase the surface area of the intestine and allow nutrients, vitamins, minerals, fluids, and electrolytes to be absorbed into the body. When the villi are destroyed, the body is much less capable of absorbing food and begins to develop symptoms associated with malnutrition and malabsorption. When the body is exposed to the gluten and gliadin proteins, it forms antibodies that recognize and act against not only the grain proteins, but also against constituents of the intestinal villi. As long as the patient continues to be exposed to the proteins, he will continue to produce these autoantibodies. Celiac disease is found throughout the world but is most prevalent in those of European descent. It can affect anyone at any age and is more common in women. It is thought to be an inherited tendency that is triggered by an environmental, emotional, or physical event – although the exact mechanism is not fully understood.


According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, about 5 to 15% of close family members of a celiac disease patient will also have the condition.


Symptoms


There are literally dozens, if not hundreds, of symptoms of gluten intolerance. It all comes down to inflammation in the body! Many people believe the most common symptoms are gastrointestinal in nature - yet the majority of people with gluten intolerance (and celiac disease) have extraintestinal symptoms. 


The most common symptoms of celiac disease include:


Fatigue


• Addison’s disease (hormonal disorder)


Gastrointestinal distress (gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, vomiting, reflux)


• Headaches (including migraines)


• Infertility


• Mouth sores


• Weight loss/gain


• Inability to concentrate


• Moodiness/depression


• Amenorrhea/delayed menarche (menstrual cycles)


• Bone/joint/muscle pain


Dental enamel hypoplasia (dental enamel defect)


• Short stature


Seizures


• Tingling numbness in the legs 


The “cure” is a life long gluten free diet.


Making the Transition


1. Have a reality check. Remember this is a choice! If you want to feel lousy for the rest of your life and get worse as time goes on then continue eating gluten. If you want to start on a journey to heal; go gluten free


2. Give it time. It takes time to heal. Take the 45 day challenge.


Within this time frame you will notice the brain fog is gone. Your body will start adjusting to a healthy weight. Yes, you will lose the bloating and weight around the middle. Don’t be discouraged if it takes a little longer to feel 100%. 


3. Look at your current diet and go through your pantry and refrigerator to find the foods and meals you already eat that are gluten-free. You may need to keep a food journal if you haven't already.


Be sure to list condiments, ice creams, produce, snacks, and other foods.


This list will be helpful as you create menus around your new foods and give you encouragement that you're already on the right track!


4. Give yourself permission to eat things that you may have restricted from your diet before your diagnosis. Potato chips or GF cookies may not be appropriate for other people, but they are a treat in a GF diet in small doses of course. You will need to find treats for yourself initially as you adjust to this diet. Count calories after you are comfortable with your new way of eating, manage your portions instead.


Once you are comfortable with the switch start cutting back on refined grains, crackers, breads, etc., to help the gut heal quicker. In all honesty, bread will not be that important. It's all about taking baby steps! 


5. Look at your current menus and meals and find ways to eliminate gluten from your diet. Replace bread in sandwiches with GF bread or green leaf lettuce and add your favorite fixings and condiments. Have breakfast burritos with rice tortillas instead of toast and eggs. Look for GF hot and cold cereals (must not have barley malt) and have those handy for a snack or meal. Replace bread and crackers with tortilla or corn chips, brown rice cakes or popcorn. For example, chicken or tuna salad on rice cakes or scooped onto corn chips is delicious. Popcorn is a filling side dish with soup. Be on the lookout for meals on your current menus or the menus of friends and family that are naturally gluten-free (roasted chicken, baked sweet potatoes and steamed veggies, for example) and make them a staple on your new menus. Surf the internet, watch cooking shows and browse magazines for ideas and adapt them as you see fit.


6. Clear out any and all foods that have gluten, wheat, wheat flour, oats, oat flour, rye, semolina, or modified food starch from your pantry. This will allow you to see how close you are to living gluten-free already. If you have family members living with you who are not gluten free, you might consider giving the "offending edibles" to them to be put in another part of the house while you learn to live and think gluten-free. As time goes on you can cook for the entire family without gluten.


7. Plan and prepare your meals ahead of time. Being caught hungry without a plan is not a good idea! Keep a few GF soups on hand in case of extreme hunger. Keep a small cooler in your car with snacks such as nuts, dried fruit and water. It helps to outline and pack any meals you're eating at home and away from home, including snacks. An example could be -


o Breakfast: scrambled eggs and mixed vegetables rolled in a rice tortilla, sliced apples, and coffee.


o Lunch: Lettuce with turkey, avocado slices, tomato, and mustard, 1 oz. chips, and 2 organic dark chocolate pieces.


o Dinner: Grilled fish or chicken with mixed vegetables, wild rice, and fruit.


o Snacks: 1 oz. almonds and popcorn.


o Desert: Coconut Ice Cream or fruit. 


Tips


1. Be patient with yourself. You'll have days when being gluten-free is really depressing (maybe even "fall off the wagon"). This is normal.


Relax – it’s a process.


2. Carry snacks with you wherever you go. It's often difficult to find an appropriate snack when the hunger strikes. GF bars are great! 


3. Arrange with the hosts of gatherings you may attend to bring your own sides or complete meals. Most people are very supportive of restricted diets.


4. Carry a small cooler in your car with small cold packs to store fruit, snacks and water


5. Consider avoiding restaurants during your transition phase as you learn how to eat and think gluten-free. Grilled meats (over a flame), baked potatoes and salads without croutons are usually safe bets. But keep a log of places you eat, what you ate and how you felt afterward. Gluten is insidious and can turn up in the oddest places (french fries, for example which can be dusted with flour).


6. Get your hands on cookbooks or start collecting your own recipes in a binder. 


7. Carry digestive aids (enzyme and bioflavonoid) with you in case of accidental ingestion. There are ones specifically for gluten such as GlutenFlam by Apex Energetics; available from your healthcare practitioner.


8. Consider taking a multi-vitamin to make up for vitamins and minerals you may lack with your new diet (ask your doctor or nutritionist if necessary).


9. Find a mentor or support system.


10. Breathe


About the author: Sandi Star, CCN


Sandi is the founder of Karmic Health, specializing in nutrition related to disease where a gluten and casein (dairy) free lifestyle is crucial; working with celiac, autism and all auto immune disorders. Sandi graduated from The Natural Healing Institute with a degree in Clinical Nutrition and is continuing her studies in Clinical Herbology. She has hands on understanding of many health issues and has dedicated her life in helping others reach their optimal health.


For more information related to this article please visit www.karmic-health.com or contact Sandi Star at 760.685.3154


© Copyright Karmic Health 2010


 

Can nutrition help verbal skills in children with autism? A study reported the August 2009 issue of Alternative Therapies says yes, for some children. Combined vitamin E and omega 3 therapy may help a type of verbal apraxia (a type of speech problem) that may be linked to food allergies and nutritional problems.

 Children with verbal apraxia have trouble pronouncing words and may have severe speech problems. Many scientists have thought that verbal apraxia is a brain disorder. This study suggests that verbal apraxia may also be related to metabolism differences and nutritional problems.

 Metabolism is the process of making energy from food. Metabolism is a complex system of enzymes, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates that work together to digest food and turn it into energy that the body can use. People likely have a wide range of metabolic differences. Some of those differences can be quite large for some individuals. In this study, they suggest that some children with autism may have metabolism differences that affect how they process foods, and how their brain works.

 What did the study show? This study tested 187 children with verbal apraxia, and many of them also had autism. All of the children took 400-3,000 International Units of vitamin E daily. They also took 1-3 grams of polyunsaturated fats (including omega 3 fatty acids) per day.

 Almost all of the families (97%) reported improvements in speech, imitation, coordination, eye contact, and other skills with vitamin E and omega-3 therapy. There were few side effects reported during the length of the study.

 The authors also described blood test results for nutritional information about 26 of the children. They reported low carnitine levels, high anti-gluten antibodies (suggesting a gluten allergy), low vitamin D levels, and fat absorption problems in most of the children they tested. They described how nutrition and metabolism might be different in some children with autism.

 What do these results mean for children with verbal apraxia and autism? The results are exciting because 97% of the children showed improvements, and there were few side effects. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? But it’s not quite as perfect as it sounds.

 There are some major limitations of this study. First of all, the researchers asked parents to give their subjective opinion of improvements. The parents knew they were in a study. Although they were given specific improvements to look for, there is a possibility of bias in favor of reporting a good result.

 Secondly, they did not use placebo controls. All of the parents and children knew they were getting the supplements. There is the possibility of the “placebo effect” which is when people taking placebo (“sugar pills”) report feeling better or actually show improvements. Many think it is the power of the mind/body connection that somehow influences how they feel or even how their body physically responds. There is scientific evidence for brain connections to the immune and endocrine systems to support these observations. It is possible that, in this study, the children and/or parents were hopeful that the supplements would work, and that influenced the outcome. There was a placebo effect observed in a recent study of citalopram and autism in children.

 Third, the supplements may be helpful for only a subset of children with verbal apraxia. The researchers chose children with verbal apraxia who also had metabolism differences….

 What is the bottom line for omega-3 and vitamin E from this study? In spite of the shortcomings of this study, the results are very promising. Children with verbal apraxia may benefit from vitamin E and omega-3 supplements, which may get their metabolism on a better track. And researchers will continue to explore the nutrition/metabolism link with brain function. Good nutrition is likely to be important for many brain functions, not just verbal apraxia.


longterm vaccine damage: CNS

Aug 4, 2009 by Anonymous

Hi:  has anyone out there heard of treating live viruses (residual from those vaccines given at 12 months) by drawing them out of the CNS?  Our kindergarten kiddo has just been diagnosed with live viruses way up behind his ears, right up in that major nerve, in a place that has selective access to the CNS /spinal cord.  So the first step is to treat the inflammation of the CNS and then draw out the viruses so that the immune system can attack these guys.  Has any one ever gone this route?  Once the viruses are out~about 5 months~ then that's that.


vaccines/neurosensory therapy

Aug 4, 2009 by Anonymous

Hi:  has anyone out there heard of treating live viruses (residual from those vaccines given at 12 months) by drawing them out of the CNS?  Our kindergarten kiddo has just been diagnosed with live viruses way up behind his ears, right up in that major nerve, in a place that has selective access to the CNS /spinal cord.  So the first step is to treat the inflammation of the CNS and then draw out the viruses so that the immune system can attack these guys.  Has any one ever gone this route?  Once the viruses are out~about 5 months~ then that's that. 

Please reply if you have had experience in this arena. OK, thank you.



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