Symptoms we often associate with autism—such as anxiety, tics, and inattention—can be caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the brain, specifically glutamate and GABA. However, reducing the amount of free glutamate in the brain can help alleviate these symptoms. In this article, we will outline why it is important to balance glutamate and GABA, symptoms to look for, and interventions that are helpful.
Tag: GFCFSF diet
Balancing the Gut: Why Do You Want To Be More Alkaline?
The first step towards great health begins with helping the body become more alkaline. One way to achieve this is to add more alkaline foods to your diet. In this article, we will cover the basics of an alkaline diet, including: alkalinity vs. acidity, the health benefits of implementing an alkaline diet, and alkaline foods to include in your child’s diet.
Lyme and Autism
Common Symptomatology Between Lyme and Autism When speaking with children who are chronically ill, it can be difficult to understand what is causing their symptoms. Children, naturally, might not know how to accurately describe their pains or illness. When there are multiple symptoms, it can be even more challenging as they grow and change so […]
An Introduction to Medical Interventions for Autism
Medical interventions for autism can greatly improve your child’s outcome and quality of life. In this article, we will discuss: Why it’s important to consider a medical approach to autism intervention. Give a brief overview of underlying medical issues that can cause autism-like behaviors. Provide links to resources that will help you successfully begin your […]
Fourth of July
Celebrations and holidays gatherings can be very difficult for families with autism. Below are some tried-and-true tips to help make this Fourth of July safe and enjoyable for everyone.
Anxiety in Autism
Anxiety is very common in autism. A meta-analysis showed that almost 40% of kids with autism have at least one comorbid anxiety disorder. This article will discuss symptoms, calming strategies, medical and non-medical reasons for anxiety, and supplements and medications that can help alleviate it. We hope you find it helpful. Symptoms of Anxiety Anxiety […]
Cerebral Folate Deficiency in Autism
Folate (vitamin B9) is very important to brain development. Current research is revealing that many kids with autism have low folate in their brains. This condition, called Cerebral Folate Deficiency, is treatable. Why is Folate Important? Folate supports the metabolism of purines and pyrimidines, which are the building blocks of RNA and DNA, and they […]
GFCFSF Diet on a Budget
Feeding your family a GFCFSF diet on a budget involves using the same basic strategies you would typically use to reduce food costs to your family. Here are some tried-and-true tips for implementing a healthy, gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free diet that is budget friendly.
Picky Eating and Autism
Kids with autism can be extremely selective when it comes to eating. An estimated 46–89% of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have feeding problems. ASD children struggle with sensory defensiveness, a need for routine and sameness, and visual overstimulation which makes expanding the palate difficult. However, there is often more to this equation that […]
What To Do During Summer Months
Many parents worry about their child regressing during the summer break from school. Parents should evaluate their child’s unique needs and plan ahead. There are multiple ways to keep your child progressing, even in the less structured summer months. Summer Camps May be part-time or full-time Schedule a meeting with camp directors to discuss if […]
Going Gluten-Free, Casein-Free, Soy-Free (GFCFSF) in 10 Weeks
Planning on implementing a gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free (GFCFSF) diet for your child? Then you’ve come to the right place! Download this FREE guide for a simple, easy-to-follow plan to help you successfully transition to the GFCFSF diet in 10 weeks. Our guide, Going GFCFSF in 10 Weeks, provides information about: How to remove gluten, casein, […]
Top Reasons to Implement a Gluten-Free, Casein-Free Diet
There are several reasons why parents should consider a gluten-free, casein-free diet for their child with autism. In this article, we will discuss why this diet is important.
Introduction to the Gluten-Free, Casein-Free, Soy-Free Diet
The gluten-free, casein-free, soy-free (GFCFSF) diet removes all sources of gluten, casein, and soy from the diet. The word “diet” is really a misnomer because this is a lifestyle change. It is a way of seeing food as nourishment for the body and brain. Once you see what gluten, casein, and soy can do to some people’s bodies, you will begin to understand why this diet is important.
Constipation and Diarrhea in Autism (AKA The “Poop” Page)
Autism and gastrointestinal problems go hand-in-hand for many kids. This meta-analysis of several studies published in the Journal of Pediatrics estimates that “the odds of GI symptoms in children with ASD are four times more prevalent than for children without ASD.” The analysis indicated higher levels of GI symptoms in all four areas including general GI concerns, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain.
Complex Gastrointestinal Issues in Autism
Complex gastrointestinal issues in autism require more complex action. When your child is still suffering despite dietary intervention, supplementation, and remedies mentioned on the Poop Page, it is time to find a qualified gastroenterologist. Behavior is communication. If your child with autism is having frequent meltdowns, they may be due to chronic gastrointestinal pain that […]
Sleep Issues in Autism
Studies show that 53% percent of children with autism have at least one frequent sleep problem. Unfortunately, typical treatments are often short-lived as they don’t always deal with the underlying cause of the sleep issue. In this article, we will provide some tips to help improve your child’s sleep and discuss common medical causes of […]
Traveling with Your Children with ASD
Traveling can be an important part of creating a meaningful life for your child because it opens the door for them to experience the world, build relationships with extended family members and friends, or even receive necessary specialized medical care. Traveling with a child who has autism may come with some unique challenges, but that doesn’t mean it’s impossible.
Thanksgiving
Gearing up for the holidays? Afraid of facing Thanksgiving this year? Let TACA help you! While parents and guardians cannot anticipate and prepare for every little thing, taking time in advance to check things off the list can make your Thanksgiving run a bit smoother. Let’s talk about how to plan ahead, prepare for the […]
I Found Hope
The first week after the diagnosis, I grieved. I cried, I screamed. I questioned my faith and I prepared myself mentally for a worst case scenario. I felt as if I had lost my son. My husband spent hours researching treatments and therapies and then suggested we try a biomedical approach.
Gavin’s Treatments
We immediately started weaning Gavin off the medication and started the GF/CF/SF diet and basic supplements, consisting of vitamins to help with constipation (one of his worst problems) and to help fight yeast overgrowth.
