Naturally Recovering Autism with Karen Thomas

• Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Autism [Podcast Episode #223]

  Mitochondria give cells over 90% of their energy. Without proper energy cells cannot carry out their functions. Mitochondrial Dysfunction vs Mitochondrial Disease Mitochondrial dysfunction simply means that the mitochondria are not working correctly. Mitochondrial disease is the term used when the primary cause of mitochondrial dysfunction resides in the mitochondria. Mitochondrial disease is generally genetic. It can be inherited from either or both parents. A special type of mitochondrial disease is caused by mutations on the mitochondrial DNA, and is inherited only from the mother. When the primary cause of mitochondrial dysfunction resides outside the mitochondria, mitochondrial dysfunction is called “secondary” (to something else). Symptoms of Mitochondrial Dysfunction Cellular energy is necessary for the function of all cells, but is particularly critical for nerve and muscle. Both nerve and muscle are important in GI function, thus cyclic vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, poor GI mobility, and other digestive disorders are common. Additional potential complications of mitochondrial dysfunction include chronic fatigue, neuropathic pain, depression, autistic regression, seizures, hypoglycemia, visual and hearing difficulty, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, intellectual disability, and dysautonomia. Mitochondrial Triggers Mitochondrial dysfunction can be genetic, but even then, disease is often triggered by the environment. Viral infections are among the most common triggers of mitochondrial dysfunction. Additional potential triggers are other infections (e.g. lyme bacteria), vaccinations, toxins, anesthesia, and any other significant stressor. In order situations, mitochondrial dysfunction can be acquired. In fact, stroke and heart attack involve mitochondrial dysfunction, whereas cells are receiving insufficient oxygen for required energy metabolism. Many environmental toxins can poison mitochondria as well, including some pesticides... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/223

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• Natural Allergy Desensitization [Podcast Episode #222]

  Podcast Interview on Natural Allergy Elimination with Paula Vetter Your child may have obvious allergies to certain pollen’s or foods, but there are many other unknown possibilities, as well. Natural allergy elimination can desensitize the body from all kinds of issues that are affecting his immune system, his brain, and much more. These compounds are in foods and chemicals found in everyday life. By getting rid of allergies the immune system is freed up to work where it is needed. During a session for natural allergy elimination the practitioner is able to detect which meridians pathways of the body are being affected such as anatomy, physiology, brain, and circulatory systems. Acupressure points are stimulated which opens a gateway to the immune system, and tells it to recognize the product as normal, a correct way to respond. Paula Vetter RN, MSN, FNP-C is a board certified Holistic Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Reiki Master/Teacher, Certified EFT Practitioner, Certified CIRS Practitioner and Personal Wellness Coach...   Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/222  

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• Fasting Risks For Autism and What To Do Instead [Podcast Episode #221]

  While intermittent fasting may have beneficial effects on various autoimmune diseases, fasting is not right for everyone. Intermittent fasting can be detrimental for people with autoimmune issues because it can potentially exacerbate their condition by putting additional stress on the immune system, which is already dysregulated in autoimmune diseases, potentially leading to increased inflammation and flare-ups due to the body’s tendency to attack its own tissues during fasting periods.  Why intermittent fasting may not be right for someone with autism: Immune system disruption: Fasting can cause fluctuations in immune cell activity, potentially leading to an overactive immune response in individuals with autoimmune diseases where the body is already attacking its own tissues. PANS is an autoimmune attack on the brain and it is very common in children with autism. You will see a sudden onset of OCD, clinginess, and fearfulness. Increased inflammation: While some research suggests intermittent fasting might reduce inflammation in healthy individuals, in autoimmune conditions, it could trigger increased inflammatory markers due to the body’s altered immune response.  Stress on the body: The stress of fasting can further exacerbate autoimmune symptoms. If your immune system is fragile and you’re constantly having flare-ups, you might want to avoid fasting until your body is stronger. What to do instead: Focus on a balanced, healthy diet with controlled portion sizes, regular exercise, and mindful eating habits to achieve similar health benefits, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods and limiting processed options; essentially, managing your overall calorie intake without strict fasting windows. Ketogenic Diets are popular for this reason. A ketogenic diet primarily consists of high-fats, moderate-proteins, and very-low-carbohydrates. The dietary macronutrients are divided into approximately 55% to 60% fat, 30% to 35% protein and 5% to 10%carbohydrates. In our episode Healthy Carbs, Candida Control, and What You Can Do To Soothe Autism Symptoms [Podcast Episode #210] we discussed how low-carb diets can be potentially sleep disruptive and anxiety provoking if candida overgrowth is still strong and candida is eating up all of the glucose our brain needs. This is very common in sleep disorders.  I discuss this in detail in my podcast episode # 133, How To Improve Sleep Tied To Candida Induced Hypoglycemia. ... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/221

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• Elopement & Autism: Ensure Your Child’s Safety Now! [Podcast Episode #220]

  What Is Elopement in Autism? Elopement—also known as wandering—is a common behavior among children with autism. It refers to when a child leaves a safe environment without permission, often placing themselves in potentially dangerous situations. According to the National Autism Association, 49% of autistic children have attempted to elope, and the behavior typically peaks between ages 4 and 7. Understanding the causes of elopement is the first step toward reducing its frequency and improving safety. Top Causes of Elopement in Autistic Children 1. Sensory Overload or Sensory Seeking Many children with autism experience sensory processing differences. They may find certain environments too loud, bright, or overwhelming, leading them to flee. Others may seek out sensory-rich experiences—like spinning fans, running water, or flashing lights—and wander off in pursuit of them. 2. Communication Difficulties Children with limited or nonverbal communication skills may elope as a way to express a need or emotion. Elopement becomes a nonverbal message, saying “I’m upset,” “I need a break,” or “I don’t understand.” 3. Escaping Demands or Transitions Some children elope to avoid non-preferred activities, such as schoolwork, chores, or social interaction. Elopement can function as a behavioral response to challenging expectations or transitions. 4. Anxiety and Fight-or-Flight Responses Autistic children often experience anxiety in social or unfamiliar settings. For some, running away is a natural response to overwhelming fear, acting as a way to self-soothe or find safety. 5. Impulsivity and Poor Executive Function Children on the autism spectrum may also struggle with impulse control and planning. In some cases, they may run impulsively without a clear goal or without recognizing potential dangers. 6. Goal-Directed Wandering Not all elopement is escape behavior. Sometimes children are simply trying to reach a desired location—like a favorite playground, a relative’s house, or even a store they remember. One of the most common, yet unknown, triggers for elopement is phenol sensitivity. Elopement is from many things but the sensory overload and impulsivity also come from phenols known to contribute to eloping.  Phenols are the natural colorings in foods such as in fruits and vegetables. Phenols are also in the artificial colorings that are in yogurt, candy, and popsicles, etc. Used industrially, they help form and are contained in plastics. They can be an allergen, whether from food or plastic products. People with poor methylation are often phenol sensitive. It is very common for children on the autism spectrum to be allergic to phenols. This is often due to an ill digestive tract. Normally the body could properly utilize and eliminate phenols. Phenols and salicylates are in most foods. Candida/yeast overgrowth and leaky gut contribute to phenol sensitivity. Leaky gut will allow these chemicals to enter the bloodstream in high  concentrations. This alarms the body and triggers an immune response which creates an allergy to these chemicals... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/220

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• Understanding Pica in Children with Autism: Causes, Connections, and What to Watch For [Podcast Episode #219]

  Pica in children with autism, touching on its link to PANS, nutritional deficiencies, emotional factors, and gut health. Pica is a complex and often misunderstood condition that can be particularly concerning when observed in children with autism. It involves the persistent eating of non-food items such as dirt, paper, chalk, hair, or even small objects like coins or toys. While pica can occur in children of all backgrounds, it is significantly more common in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Understanding the why behind this behavior is crucial for parents, caregivers, and professionals who want to provide appropriate support. What Is Pica? Pica is defined by the DSM-5 as the repeated ingestion of non-nutritive substances over a period of at least one month, and at an age where this behavior is developmentally inappropriate. In children with autism, pica can often persist beyond toddler years and may require clinical attention due to the risks involved, including choking, intestinal blockages, poisoning, and exposure to harmful bacteria. Why Is Pica More Common in Children with Autism? There are multiple factors that can contribute to pica behaviors in children with autism, including sensory processing differences, emotional regulation difficulties, nutritional deficiencies, and underlying medical conditions. Here are some key contributors: 1.  Nutritional and Mineral Deficiencies One of the most common underlying causes of pica is a deficiency in essential nutrients and minerals. When the body lacks certain elements, it may instinctively seek out non-food items that contain trace amounts of what it’s missing. In children with autism, this is especially relevant due to dietary restrictions, picky eating, or poor absorption caused by gut health issues. Common deficiencies linked to pica include: Iron – Low iron levels (anemia) have a strong correlation with pica. Increasing heem foods which are rich in iron are suggested. Thai is much better than supplementing with iron since iron supplements can aggravate virus activity. Food-based supplements are a much safer way to increase iron naturally.   Zinc – Important for taste, smell, and immune function.  Magnesium – Needed for neurological and muscular function.  Calcium – Can influence cravings for chalk or dirt.  Vitamin D and B12 – Deficiencies can affect mood, energy, and neurological health.  Children with autism may be more susceptible to these deficiencies due to selective eating, inflammation, or gut dysbiosis. 2.  Emotional and Sensory Reasons Pica can also be a self-soothing or sensory-seeking behavior. Children with autism may have heightened or lowered sensory sensitivities and may find certain textures, smells, or even the act of chewing or swallowing non-food items calming or stimulating. Other emotional and psychological factors that may drive pica include: Stress or anxiety – Non-food chewing may become a coping mechanism.  Communication challenges – Inability to express discomfort or emotional needs might manifest as pica.  Obsessive-compulsive tendencies – Some children may develop ritualistic eating of non-foods.  Providing alternative sensory activities and emotional regulation tools can help reduce the compulsion. 3.  Pica as a Symptom of PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome) PANS is a neuroimmune condition characterized by the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, eating restrictions, tics, or emotional disturbances following infection or inflammation. Interestingly, pica has been observed in children experiencing flare-ups of PANS, particularly when inflammation in the brain affects areas related to impulse control and appetite. In these cases, pica may appear suddenly and be accompanied by other neuropsychiatric symptoms. If this is suspected, seeking a qualified PANS/PANDAS specialist is critical, as treatment often involves addressing underlying infections and modulating the immune response... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/219

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