By Schuyler Corrigan

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April 13, 2024

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Here at Richmond Natural Medicine, we see people from all walks of life, including children, elderly “wisened” clients, and everyone in between. The range of chronic and acute conditions we see is vast, but in this article, we will focus on the naturopathic approach to autism. 

People refer to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a spectrum because of the characteristics and symptoms present in many variations among individuals with autism. Most commonly, a professional diagnoses this developmental disorder around the age of two. However, many individuals receive a diagnosis of autism later in life.

Symptoms of Autism include (but are not limited to):

• Social and communication barriers include lack of eye contact, difficulty with conversation and social cues, not responding to calls for attention, or difficulty adjusting to new or unfamiliar social situations. 
• Displaying repetitive behaviors such as verbal tics, repetitive phrases, or heightened interest in specific topics.
• Sometimes, they are highly sensitive to sensory inputs such as lights, sounds, textures, or fragrances. 
• Strengths include high functioning in math, numbers, problem-solving, and a strong memory for minute details. 

The physical and mental manifestation of autism affects people differently, and some adults function quite well with ASD, being familiar with their symptoms. Autism can be well managed and supported by a variety of modalities, including naturopathic care. 

Read More: Autism Spectrum from the NIH

Naturopathic Medicine: A Whole Body Approach

When working with children and adults with autism, naturopathic providers are looking at several factors to support holistically. They will be working in collaboration with your medical care team while offering personalized suggestions to suit the needs of each person. Some areas your ND will be focusing on include:

Gut and Immune Health

The gut/brain connection is critical to behavioral functioning, overall immunity, and absorption of key nutrients. Your Naturopathic Doctor will thoroughly examine your immune history, any current or past allergies, and your general daily diet and make suggestions that may be necessary nutritional precursors. This can include pre-or probiotics or immune support to enhance gut microbiome functioning. They may recommend testing to note if there are any micronutrient deficiencies or if there may be suspected dysbiosis of the gut. Overall, reduction of any inflammatory or allergic inputs can be extremely helpful. 

Hormone Health

Based on the person’s age and health history, hormone imbalance may be contributing to the severity or some symptoms of ASD. Your ND may recommend reviewing any lab work from your medical care team or suggesting additional hormonal lab work. Naturopathic care can play a complementary role in hormonal support of ASD alongside your conventional medical team. 

Noticing and Reducing Stress

For all of us, heightened periods of acute or chronic stress can exacerbate most symptoms. The effects of short and long-term stress equally impact those with ASD. Your ND will ask about family and social situations, work and life stressors, or anything you consider difficult to manage daily. Supporting the adrenal response through stress management practices, appropriate herbal or homeopathic suggestions, and engaging in helpful community support are some areas where your ND may make some suggestions. 

Dietary support and food intolerances

Research has shown that certain individuals with ASD can have specific nutrient deficiencies, including Vitamin D, Vitamin E, and folate. Particular foods may be recommended for added support or even dietary supplementation. Additionally, those with ASD can be more sensitive to certain foods, including dairy and wheat, or added ingredients, including dyes, preservatives, and fillers. Each person is different; thus, your naturopathic doctor can assist in identifying if there are food intolerances or if additional nutritional support is needed.

Supporting Gentle, Daily Detoxification Pathways

Furthermore, some people – especially children – with ASD may have slightly lessened detoxification potential through their key detox organs, including the liver, kidneys, skin, and lymphatic system. Your ND carefully notes how each person eliminates and detoxifies, always considering any detoxification protocols via nutritional or supplemental inputs with a gentle and thoughtful approach.

Read More: How Colorful Foods Support Detoxification Pathways

Naturopathic medicine is an approach to healing that focuses on lifestyle, diet, homeopathy, and botanical remedies. Conversely, alternative therapies focus on the individual, addressing their specific concerns, needs, and underlying conditions, unlike many modern remedies that expect one medication or treatment to satisfy a general need. Importantly, naturopathic medicine recognizes that everyone is an individual and treats them as such to promote health and longevity.

Naturopathic Support For Autism

Richmond Natural Medicine commits to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Our naturopathic approach focuses on holistic, personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each individual. If you or a loved one are seeking supportive, integrative care for autism, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our experienced naturopathic doctors. Let us partner with you on your journey towards improved health and well-being. Contact us today to learn more about how our naturopathic services can support you or your loved one’s journey with autism.