Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a developmental condition that can impact communication, behavior, and social interactions. While traditional diagnostic and treatment approaches have made significant strides, many families are turning to integrative health centers for alternative testing and natural therapies to support cognitive, mental and behavioral functions of their family members with ASD. Ocean Pacific Integrative Health Center in Temecula, CA, is committed to offering these comprehensive services to support overall health and well-being of individuals with ASD.

Alternative Testing for Autism Spectrum Disorder

1. 1. Micronutrient Testing: This test evaluates the levels of essential vitamins and minerals in the body. Micronutrient imbalances can affect brain function and behavior, making it crucial to identify any deficiencies or excesses. Understanding these levels can guide targeted nutritional therapies.
   2. Gastrointestinal (GI) Testing: The gut-brain connection is increasingly recognized in ASD. GI disturbances, such as bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, are common among those with autism which may adversely effect nutrient absorption.  Comprehensive GI testing can identify dysbiosis (an imbalance of gut bacteria), measure markers of digestion, absorption, and inflammation that may be impacting behavior and development.

• Food Sensitivity Testing: This test will help streamline the process of identifying any foods that may lead to inflammation and an increase in intestinal permeability.  Food sensitivities are inflammatory responses of the immune system triggered by food allergens. Unlike the true  “immediate” food allergies, the symptoms of a food sensitivity are delayed and often occur hours or even days after exposure, making it difficult to identify the trigger food(s).  

1. Organic Acid Testing (OAT): This test provides a snapshot of how well the body is metabolizing nutrients. Abnormal organic acid levels can indicate metabolic dysfunction, yeast or bacterial overgrowth, and neurotransmitter imbalances. OAT helps to tailor specific dietary and supplement interventions.
2. Heavy Metal Testing: Children with ASD may have a higher body burden of heavy metals like lead, mercury, or aluminum. Heavy metal testing can help determine if detoxification protocols are needed to improve overall health and reduce neuroinflammation.

Diet and Nutritional Therapies for ASD

Nutrition plays a pivotal role in managing ASD symptoms. Here are some approaches used at Ocean Pacific Integrative Health Center:

• Diet: Based on GI testing, dietary recommendations will be streamlined for elimination of reactive foods that have a  significant impact on mood, behavior, and gastrointestinal health. The foods will be reintroduced in a systematic fashion after a period of abstinence. 
• Anti-Inflammatory Diets: Incorporating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds can help manage chronic inflammation, which is often present in ASD.
• Nutrient Supplementation: Based on the results of micronutrient testing, vitamin, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and/or gentle detoxification may be recommended to support neurological health and reduce symptoms.
• Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes: A healthy gut is critical for overall well-being. Probiotics and enzymes may be used to enhance digestion and improve gut-brain communication.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) for ASD

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is a medical treatment which enhances the body’s natural healing process by using oxygen in a pressurized total body chamber, where atmospheric pressure is increased in a controlled way to below sea level in order to increase tissue oxygen level for optimal healing. HBOT is becoming an emerging intervention for ASD.

Benefits of HBOT for ASD may include:

• Enhanced oxygen supply to the brain, which can support cognitive, mental, and behavioral functions.
• Reduction in neuroinflammation, which is often elevated in ASD.
• Improvement in mitochondrial function and overall cellular health.

At Ocean Pacific Integrative Health Center, mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT ) is used. This treatment consists of entering a hyperbaric chamber where ambient filtered air is pressurized to about 11 feet below sea level, offering a 30% increase in pressure for safe tissue oxygenation. Because this is less intense than deep pressure depth and the use of high oxygen concentration like that used for scuba divers suffering from the bends, mHBOT is an extremely safe option to increase tissue oxygenation of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

Q&A Section

Q: What is the purpose of alternative testing for ASD?
A: Alternative testing helps identify underlying issues such as nutritional deficiencies, metabolic imbalances, or environmental toxins that may contribute to or exacerbate symptoms of ASD. By understanding these factors, personalized treatment plans can be developed.

Q: How does gut health impact ASD symptoms?
A: The gut and brain are interconnected through the gut-brain axis. Imbalances in gut bacteria or gastrointestinal inflammation can influence mood, behavior, and cognitive function. Addressing these issues through dietary changes and gut-supportive therapies can improve symptoms.

Q: What types of dietary changes are commonly recommended for individuals with ASD?
A: Dietary recommendations often focus on eliminating inflammatory foods and incorporating nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods. Customized diets may also include probiotics, digestive enzymes, and specific supplements to support gut health and brain function.

Q: How does mild Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (mHBOT) work for ASD?
A: mHBOT enhances oxygen delivery to tissues and reduces inflammation. For individuals with ASD, it may improve neurological function and reduce symptoms by promoting brain healing and reducing oxidative stress.

Q: Are these treatments a replacement for traditional therapies?
A: No, alternative testing and therapies should be viewed as complementary to traditional approaches. At Ocean Pacific Integrative Health Center, we believe in an integrative model of care that combines conventional and alternative treatments for the best possible outcomes.

Q: How do I know which tests or therapies are right for my child?
A:  After a comprehensive intake that involves a complete review of medical history and current concerns, and a physical exam, testing strategies and possible treatment options will be discussed.  We work closely with families to develop individualized testing and treatment plans based on each person’s unique needs.

Contact Ocean Pacific Integrative Health Center

If you’re interested in learning more about our integrative approach to Autism Spectrum Disorder or want to schedule a consultation, please reach out to us:

Ocean Pacific Integrative Health Center
41769 Enterprise Circle North, Suite 203
Temecula, CA 92590
Phone: (760) 944-9300

Explore how alternative testing, personalized nutrition, and innovative therapies like HBOT can support the health and development of your loved one. We are here to guide you on your journey toward a holistic, integrative approach to managing ASD.