These Natural Autism Cures Could Alleviate Symptoms
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Whilst there is no “medical” cure for autism, there are a number of things that can be done to reduce symptoms – things that many people refer to as having cured their or a loved one’s autism.
Most individuals who advocate for natural healing of autism believe that the best treatment is a diet tailored to the autistic condition.
Generally speaking, this means limiting any unnatural ingredients or products. Aside from this feature, a gluten-free and casein-free diet has gained much attention in the autism community for its purported dramatic effects upon autism symptoms.
Although there is as-yet a lack of research supporting this diet’s success in curing autism, anecdotal evidence is rather abundant and enthusiastic, thus making it a promising option for many parents and families affected by autism. Parents have reported that a gluten-free casein-free (GFCF) diet lessened the symptoms of autism, including impulsivity, lack of focus, and speech problems.
Gluten
Gluten can be likened to wheat, rye, and/or barley; it is commonly found in grains. Ergo, parents who choose to treat their autistic child in this manner must become very vigilant about their food choices, as gluten is found in a vast number of products. Some foods/ingredients in which gluten is found are:
* Oats
* Rye
* Barley
* Bulgar
* Durum
* Kamut
* Spelt
* Semolina
* Couscous
* Malt
* Certain vinegars
* Soy sauce
* Certain flavorings
* Artificial colors
This list demonstrates the fact that many of the foods that are part of our modern-day diet contain gluten or its derivatives.
Casein
Casein is a protein found in milk and foods containing milk. Some foods to avoid to promote reduction of autistic symptoms are:
* Cheese
* Butter
* Yogurt
* Ice cream
* Whey
In the instance of casein, parents also need to be very vigilant in scrutinizing the ingredients of foods in their child’s diet; casein is sometimes added to products that we would not expect to find it in, such as soy substitute products and margarine.
Herbs and Supplements
Aside from the GFCF diet, there are a number of herbs and supplements that may help reduce the symptoms of autism. Green tea extract, B vitamins, and flax seed oil have been beneficial for some individuals.
The use of essential oils may further promote healing in autistic individuals. Frankincense, lavender, and myrrh in particular have been helpful in achieving symptom relief.
Conclusion
Although there is no absolute cure for autism, individuals and families affected by the disease are not without options. The GFCF diet has produced excellent results for a number of individuals, and the employment of herbs and essential oils to further reduce symptoms is an additional option. Because autism is such an individualized condition, what works for one person may not work for another and it is important for parents to be flexible in determining which methods of natural treatment are most helpful at reducing their child’s symptoms. Fortunately, with the wealth of options available, it is likely that each individual can find something tolerable and helpful in handling their autistic symptoms.
Author
This article was written for Insights-on-Health.com by Nicole D T, a freelance writer who researches and writes on various topics.
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