Navigating Autism within the Membership Model

Every week, we gather to discuss cases and delve into how to effectively work with people.This week, led by Dr. Cheryl Burdette, our Clinical Educator, we discussed the complications of Autism and how to break down care within the membership model. 

Functional Approach for an Autism Diagnosis

An Autism diagnosis can seem daunting as there are many pieces to cover. However, this is why it slots so beautifully into a membership model. It provides the opportunity to break things down into logical steps that help a child progress in terms of development, care, and interactions.

Foundational Principles in Autism Care

We discussed the major foundational pieces, particularly in the context of research in autism over the past 20 years within the functional medicine space. There has been a good concentration around gut-based therapies. Even 20 to 30 years ago, treatments like secretin were being utilized, knowing it comes from the gut. As we progress, we observe connections in terms of changes in the microbiome, including beneficial bacteria and pathogens like yeast, and their relationship to inflammatory burden, crucial to manage in autistic individuals.

Addressing Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

We explored the interaction and the possibility of inflammation from food sensitivities and allergies. This brings us back to our foundational approach, focusing on gut health, which benefits most of our autistic population, making the condition less foreign and more familiar.

Additionally, we emphasized the importance of lowering oxidative stress through interventions such as glutathione therapies and sulforaphane. Studies have shown noticeable improvements in development and emotional interaction with caregivers in autistic individuals treated with sulforaphane.

Utilizing Diagnostic Tools

Moving forward, we consider neurological aspects and mitochondrial function. Organic acid testing emerges as a valuable tool alongside stool tests for evaluating food sensitivities and identifying potential infections or toxic exposures.

We establish a structured five-visit model to address underlying issues systematically. This approach makes the overwhelming manageable, particularly in this style of care. It provides a great platform for brainstorming together and feeling comfortable with complex matters, knowing that a functional medicine approach shines in lowering inflammatory load, essential for our autistic community.

Conclusion

Having a forum with a vast group of experienced professionals to discuss lifelong concerns, such as Autism, is crucial to provide best care for our patients. The Autism spectrum is very wide, and every person must be cared for individually. Again, this is why functional medicine is a beautiful fit when it comes to an Autism diagnosis. Our entire premise relies on treating patients' whole selves and remembering that every "self" is unique.