What causes Autism?

There is no known single cause of autism. It is known that autism is a neurological disorder and that there are differences in the shape and the structure of the brain of autistic children as opposed to non-autistic children. It is thought that, in certain cases, there might be a genetic predisposition to autism, which may run in families.

Whether the predisposition to autism is genetic or not, there may be several 'triggers' which can precipitate the disorder. These could include problems in pregnancy and birth, viral infections, exposure to certain environmental chemicals or pollutants or even allergies to certain foods (e.g. milk and dairy products). There are also suggestions that autism may be caused by a reaction to childhood vaccines. Obviously more research is needed in this area.

It is important for parents to note that autism is not a mental illness and is not caused by bad parenting or problems in the home. All too often parents are made to feel guilty and as if they have done something wrong, which is not the case. Parents of autistic children need as much support and help as possible and should not be made to feel that they are the cause of their child's problem.

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What are the treatment options?

While there are many different theories about the best course of treatment for autism, most professionals agree that the earlier treatment begins, the better the chances are that the child will be helped. The following is merely an overview of some of the treatment approaches. Bearing in mind that autism may have different causes and different manifestations in different people, it stands to reason that treatment will differ from person to person and often needs to be tailor made for the individual. There is no ONE treatment method that will work for all autistic children. The best results are usually achieved by using a multidisciplinary approach and combining different therapies. It may take some time and experimentation to find the right combination of therapies for the individual.

Educational and Thereapeutic approach.

This includes specialized education as well as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, music therapy, sensory integration, behaviour modification and speech therapy. Depending on the symptoms and the areas of developmental delay, these therapies can be extremely effective and can be combined into the overall treatment plan. The earlier they are begun the better the chances of improvement. It is important to realise that none of these therapies are 'quick fixes' and need perseverance over a long period of time.

Dietary intervention.

There are indications that certain vitamins and mineral supplements may improve functioning in autistic people. While there is some disagreement regarding this amongst medical professionals, many parents have reported marked improvements after a program of nutritional supplements. There are also a number of clinical studies which strongly support the use of vitamin and mineral supplementation in the treatment of autism and have demonstrated significant improvement. As nutrition is such a vital ingredient in brain development, it stands to reason that supplementation may have a positive benefit, although this would vary from individual to individual. Some experts have gone as far as to suggest that certain cases of autism could be as a result of nutritional deficiencies or malabsorption of nutrients from the diet. This subject is a very complex one and outside the scope of this discussion. However, it is strongly suggested that parents consult a physician, homeopath or nutritional expert who specializes in using supplements in the treatment of autism and that this approach be integrated into the intervention program.

There are also suggestions that autistic symptoms can be caused as a result of malabsorption and intolerances to certain foodstuffs, especially dairy products and gluten contained in wheat and grain products. Some parents have reported remarkable changes after the elimination of these foodstuffs from the diets of their autistic children. It is recommended that a nutritionalist be consulted to assist with insuring a balanced diet to compensate for the removal of foodstuffs containing dairy and gluten.

Medication.

There are many different medications that are prescribed to treat the symptoms of autism. While no drugs exist that can cure autism, certain drugs may be prescribed to treat the symptoms. These include SSRI's (e.g. Prozac, Luvox, Zoloft), tranquilizing drugs (e.g. Valium, Xanax) Anti-psychotic drugs (e.g.Risperdal, Seroquel) and stimulants (e.g. Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta).

Whether or not to use prescription drugs is a personal choice which needs to be made on the basis of informed choice as to the benefits and disadvantages involved. It is always important to balance symptomatic relief of symptoms with possible side effects and health disadvantages. If prescription drugs are used, it is essential that these are prescribed and regularly monitored by an experienced professional to prevent dosage problems as well as adverse drug interactions. It is also important to realise that there are effective herbal and homeopathic alternatives to many of the prescription drugs. As with any medication, it is always best to consult your doctor before changing or discontinuing any prescribed medicines.

What are the natural alternatives to synthetic drugs? 

Herbal and homeopathic remedies can be viable alternatives to the synthetic drugs and may be just as effective, with far fewer risks and side effects. It is important that you only use remedies from a reliable source as the quality of herbs used, as well as methods of preparation, may affect the strength and effectiveness of the remedy.

Depending on the symptoms that need treatment, Feelgood Health recommends the following remedies to assist in the overall treatment plan. All remedies have been carefully formulated by a practising Clinical Psychologist and manufactured in therapeutic dosage under strict pharmaceutical conditions:

• Mindsoothe (Capsules or Jr Drops) - moodswings, aggression, chronic anxiety, OCD, 'Stimming' and lack of emotional contact. Click here for more info on Mindsoothe Jr.

• PureCalm Drops - Natural tranquilizer for symptomatic relief of anxiety and agitation.  Becalm may be taken on its own when needed for quick symptomatic relief, and is also safe to use with most prescription and herbal medicines. Click here for more info on PureCalm.

• Focus ADHD Formula and BrightSpark - For the treatment of hyperactivity, restlessness and lack of concentration,  Feelgood Health has developed two highly effective remedies. Focus ADHD Formula is a 100% herbal remedy which has been especially formulated to treat the symptoms of ADHD in children and adults alike.  Feelgood Health also offers BrightSpark, a safe and effective homeopathic formula. BrightSpark can be effectively used on its own or it can be combined with Focus ADHD Formula for severe or stubborn cases or for children with defiance and anger problems. For more info on Focus and BrightSpark, Click Here.

• Tantrum Tamer - a specially formulated homeopathic remedy, uses proven homeopathic ingredients which can greatly reduce or eliminate distressing and hard to handle tantrums. Tantrum Tamer dissolves easily in the mouth and is pleasant tasting and readily accepted by children. For more info on Tantrum Tamer, Click Here.

• Also see our Remedies for Insomnia

Choosing the correct approach for you is important!

Autistic people are individuals and each person is unique, requiring a unique treatment plan. Whatever approach you use in the treatment of autism, make sure that you are well informed and that you choose professionals who are prepared to listen and support you in your quest for the best intervention for your situation and circumstances.  An integrated and holistic approach in which all family members are treated with respect and consideration is always the best option. Remember that autism is not a sentence. Although it can sometimes not be cured, it is a condition which can often be very effectively treated to reduce or even eliminate certain symptoms. Because it is a developmental disorder, autism often improves with the correct treatment, including therapeutic and educational intervention, accompanied by dietary and nutritional support and the appropriate use of herbal, homeopathic or synthetic medication.

Testimonials

'I just wanted to let you know how you have changed lives.My two boys are autistic. They were diagnosed early and put on medication. At one point, they were on 6 meds each. On day out of frustration, I searced the web for natural remedies for autism and found you. I weaned them off the perscription drugs and started them on Focus and Purcalm in the morning and Mindsoothe at night. Within two months they were brighter, calmer, and more themelves than they have ever been. That was over 6 months ago and they are doing so well, the schools are moving them into more regular classes. We are so gratful that you have the remedies that have changed their lives. Oh, by the way, they have
both lost a total of 70 pounds since coming off the medicine and taking your products! Thank you so much!' Missouri
 

I have to say that this product has helped both me and my 2 sons
one with ADHD and the other with Autism sleep...thank you' Marcella

 

'I purchased pure calm and ok kiddie calmer for my 5 year old son,Matthew. He was diagnosed with sensory integration disorder, anxiety disorder and obsessive compulsive disorder all stemming from his language delay. He has had many early interventions including speech and occupational therapies. He is currently attends Kindergarden in a public school.It is a 12:1:1 self contained setting. When the director asked me think about putting him on meds I was against it. They felt that his anxiety was getting in his way. They wanted to start mainstreaming him
because he is so smart. So I went online and found your company. I received the package the day after Thanksgiving and gave him his first daily dosage. Matthew slept the entire night! He usually woke up everyday at 3am and climbed into our bed. The teachers noticed a change in the level of his anxiety the first day back! He now could seperate from me and get through his day easier. We are also take Matthew to an Audiologist twice a week. The results were so amazing that we have been recommending your products to others. The reason we chose natures
remedies is because there are no side effects or addictions related to your products. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR GIVING ME THE TOOLS TO HELP MY SON
TOWARDS A MORE PRODUCTIVE LIFE.Sincerely, Sharon Rozansky'

How To Order

Click on the button for our easy, secure online ordering facility.(You can also phone 021 7970193 for assistance.) All South African orders will be posted to your nearest Postnet or PO Box to reach you within 1-2 working days.

 

(For orders outside of Africa, please visit www.nativeremedies.com)

 

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