BACKGROUND

Autism is a brain development disorder that impairs social interaction and communication, and causes restricted and repetitive behavior, all starting before a child is three years old. This set of signs distinguishes autism from milder autism spectrum disorders (ASD) such as Asperger syndrome. Autism affects many parts of the brain, but how this occurs is not yet fully understood. 

Individuals with autism require proper nutrition, vitamin and mineral supplementation along with expert psychological help.  Research by Dr. Abram Hoffer published in the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine shows food allergies play a significant role in the development of this disease. Allergies to dairy products and wheat, along with other common staple foods, are suspected triggers.

ORTHOMOLECULAR APPROACH

Orthomolecular treatment of autism examines both nutritional deficiencies and environmental factors-including unprecedented exposure to toxic substances and over-vaccination of infants and young children.  If the cause of autism is suspected to be allergies to food, an orthomolecular therapist will probably take a detailed food history and may place the patient on an elimination diet.

Orthomolecular treatment of autism could include the use of the following supplements:

Vitamin A

Pyridoxine - Vitamin B6 

B-Complex 50s 

Vitamin C 

Vitamin D 

Zinc 

Magnesium 

* A customized program must be developed by an orthomolecular practitioner

REFERENCES AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Articles and Resources

Hoffer, Abram. "The Megavitamin Revolution" Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. 7.1 (1992)

Kunin, Richard. "Principles That Identify Orthormolecular Medicine: A Unique Medical Specialty". Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine. 4 (1987)

Harnett, Cindy. "Victoria MD wins prize for theories on megavitamins" Times Colonist November 3, 2007

Murray, Michael T. Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements: The Essential Guide for Improving Your Health Naturally. Roseville, CA: Prima Publishing, 1996.

Meyer, D., and Hunsaker, D. 1973. Evidence for a biological basis of infantile autism. Orthomolecular Psychiatry -159-69.

Hoffer, Dr. Abram. Healing Children's Attention & Behavior Disorders: Complementary Nutritional & Psychological Treatments. Toronto: CCNM Press Inc, 2004.

Hoffer A and Saul AW. Orthomolecular Medicine for Everyone. Laguna Beach, CA: Basic Health Pub, 2008.

Pauling, Linus. How to Live Longer and Feel Better. Corvallis: First Oregon State University Press, 2006.

Hoffer, Dr. Abram. Healing Children's Attention and Behavior Disorders: Toronto: CCNM Press Inc, 2005.