Autism: A Spectrum Disorder On The Rise

Did you know that in the United States there are currently 1.5 million people with autism? Personally, I was shocked to discover the annual incidence rate and the possibility of 4 million Americans within this decade that will carry the diagnosis. Autism is considered to be a "spectrum disorder" because symptoms often present in clusters or in any number of combinations. It affects the area of the brain that develops and controls social interaction and communication skills. The classic hallmark of Autism is a failure to develop normal communication skills.

The diagnosis is many times delayed, and often made by observation over time. There are no special medical tests that can diagnose Autism. Of note, no one seems to be able to explain the increase in the number of new cases. Brain scans suggest differences between "normal" children and those with autism and genetic patterns suggest heredity plays a factor. The search for a trigger is ongoing. Viral infections, metabolic imbalances and environmental toxins are being studied as possible factors.

Until we have more definitive answers, early detection and intervention is something that will give these children a chance for a normal life... along with a whole lot of patience and love...

Autism: A Very Perplexing Disorder, But Yet There Is Hope.

Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) such as autistic disorder, pervasive developmental disorder and Asperger disorder are very complex brain disorders resulting in problems with social skills, overall communication and repetitive or patterned behaviors. According to the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities it is estimated, "that if 4 million children are born in the United States every year, approximately 24,000 of these children will eventually be diagnosed with an ASD." This is based on the fact that the prevalence of the diagnosis of these disorders is between 2-6 per 1,000 children. The cause is not yet known, but extensive research looking at various aspects of the disorders is currently taking place. It is known that the various forms of autism are a result of the malfunction of brain cells (neurons) and communication (neurotransmitters) to and from the brain cells. It is theorized to develop in the womb from possibly genetics, or as a result of the health of the mother and the fetus during pregnancy, or possibly even from a lack of oxygen during the delivery of the fetus. Researchers are looking into other environmental factors as well. The malfunction within these neural networks (brain cell communication) can occur from the neurons migrating to the wrong place in the brain, from problems with the neural pathways or neurotransmitters, from interference, or simply from a failure to perform... hence, the complex and perplexing nature of the disorder.

The severities of the diagnosis vary, and no one child with autism reacts the same as another. This will explain the category of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). Children with autism experience extreme sensitivities, some to sound, to touch, to sight and to smell. This may tell us: why some of the behavioral problems occur when one is trying to hug a child with a form of autism, why some of the children are picky eaters, why some of the children may have extreme tantrums in public places such as the grocery store, etc. It is also thought that some of the repetitive or patterned behaviors (like rocking back and forth) may be a way for the child to tune out certain stimuli. Since many children that suffer from autism fail to develop language skills, communication is very difficult. On top of which, autistic children have problems deciphering facial expressions and emotions, as well as relating their own, leading them to extreme frustration when attempting to communicate a need.

Note, however, that within this puzzling and challenging condition there is hope. Temple Grandin was a young child diagnosed with autism at the age of 6 months (with all of the major symptoms: lack of communication, withdrawn from social interaction and hypersensitivities) during a time when institutionalization was the only suggested answer. Her mother, despite the doctor's suggestions, chose to put Temple in a school that specialized in speech and communication therapy. She did learn how to speak by age 4 and was able to attend regular schools throughout her life, as well as obtain a doctoral degree in animal science. Yes, every case is different, but there are degrees of success. It is important to know that with early diagnosis much can be done. The brain not only develops the entire time it is in the womb, but is still in a very active developmental stage during the first year of life. It is important for mothers who are expecting to make sure they themselves or their little ones get all of the required amounts of carbohydrates, vitamins & minerals, proteins and essential fatty acids. In addition, it is important for babies to be introduced to new stimuli (visual, auditory, touch and smell). Sometimes people choose not to take their babies to places like the zoo, a children's musical or have them participate in other outdoor or social activities because they feel that the baby won't know what is going on or that they won't remember it, but it is very important for brain development and socialization.

Currently the medications used on those suffering from ASDs are not specific to the disorders, they were created to address other mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety or ADD/ADHD, etc; and may be associated with having adverse side effects. As a natural approach, Vitamin B6 is being taken with magnesium to help stimulate brain activity. Also, essential fatty acids, especially omega 3 essential fatty acids are being used to enhance brain functioning. Although we don't know the exact cause of autism and autistic related learning disorders, we do know that it has to do with communication and functioning of the brain. We can take that information and use it in determining what supplements and homeopathics can help with the stimulation of neural networks and new neurological growth.

In fact, Växa International has a line of products specifically designed for neurological enhancement: Attend, Memorin and Neuran. These product formulations were created by a trained Neuroscientist and Clinical Neuropsychologist addressing the specific nutritional needs of the brain in its ability to retrieve memories, stimulate neural growth, process and retrieve information, focus attention, etc. These products, as well as Extress (used to calm and diminish emotional sensitivity and mood swings) and (29 bioavailable Omega 3-6-9 Fatty Acids and essential lipids, plus phytosterols and antioxidants) may benefit one with an ASD (child or adult) as well as other learning or developmental disorders. These homeopathic medicinals may be taken with other pharmaceutical medications, however, be sure to communicate the additional health strategies to the managing physician. The Attend, Memorin and Extress come in a convenient pack called the Attend Strategy Pac.

It only makes sense that if someone is suffering from neurological disorders of any sort to focus on providing the brain with all of the building blocks necessary to reconstruct and repair. That not only includes nutritional supplementation but external stimuli as well. Unlike in Temple Grandin's day, there are many programs that specialize in ASDs and help to improve social interaction and communication skills. In fact, there are programs that incorporate training for the parents. Parent involvement is crucial. Give your autistic or developmentally disabled child every chance to succeed starting from the inside out. There is and always will be hope!

Autism Support Links
http://www.autism-pdd.net/
http://www.nas.org.uk/helpline/

Discover How Nature's Omega 3 & Omega 9 Fatty Acid Can Save Your Life

As many of you may recall, we previously discussed "Good Fats vs. Bad Fats" in one of our May health tips. Because essential fatty acids (EFA's) are so important to understand and I know of no subject more confusing, I wanted to re-examine the important features and their influence on our well-being.

When I give public talks on health and medicine, the questions I get reveal both the interest and confusion regarding fats. Let's face it, we have to "eat to live" because food is fuel for our metabolic engines. The quality of fuel you burn (good fats for example) influences your body; just as the grade of fuel your car burns influences its performance.

Omega 3 essential oils are the key building blocks in every cell membrane in the body. To build and maintain strong, healthy bodies that will be resistant to "system breakdowns" we need to learn to supplement our diets by eating foods rich in essential fatty acids or make up for our lack of EFA's by taking high quality supplements.

Your Brain Is Your Body's Engine And EFA's It's Oil

Any auto mechanic or manufacturer will tell you that the most overlooked and important service for a car is to replace the engine's oil and filter. In fact, many new car warranties will be null and void if the oil is not changed within the manufacturer's scheduled timelines. The brain is no different. Well, except that a car is replaceable and the human body is not. The brain is in charge of communicating every action the body takes: breathing, pumping blood, eye blinking, swallowing and digesting food, metabolism, growth of any kind, puberty, speaking, thinking analytically or creatively, kicking a ball, moving out of the way of a moving object, the memory (long and short term), every emotion, reasoning, coordination and balance, standing upright, etc. It communicates through the nervous system, which includes millions and millions of neurons (nerve cells) and neurotransmitters. Each neuron receives information from thousands of other neurons as well as sends out information to thousands of other neurons. This transmission of information is made smooth and fluent by essential fatty acids (EFA's). Just like the car needs oil to keep its engine from breaking down and to maintain longevity, so does the body.

The myelin is the protective sheath that covers the neurons. It is made up of 30% protein and 70% fat (mainly oleic acid - omega 9). All cells throughout the body are made up of a balance of omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids. Omega 3 and 6 are considered essential fatty acids because of how vital they are to the body (brain) and because they have to be consumed through diet or supplementation; the body does not produce them internally. Omega 9's are considered non-essential because they are produced from starches and sugars within the body. In our Standard American Diet we get plenty of omega 6 EFA's from the foods we eat, some may say we get too much of them, though they are very important to good health. The issue is that there has to be a balance between the omega 3 and the omega 6 EFA's, and our society as a whole is not getting enough of the omega 3's. For optimal health it is suggested that we consume one omega 3 to every four omega 6's, however, in the United States the average ratios are from 11:1 to 30:1 more omega 6's than omega 3's, an extreme imbalance.

This imbalance of EFA's or rather the deficiency of omega 3's can lead to the following conditions: Alzheimer's disease, anxiety and body stress, heart disease, attention deficit disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, bipolar disorder, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression (including postpartum depression), learning disorders, Rett's syndrome, Autism, memory impairment, Parkinson's disease, etc. "Northern American and European populations showed cumulative rates of depression 10 times greater than a Taiwanese population that consumed a lot of fish (a rich source of omega 3). The Japanese, whose diet is rich in fish, have a significantly lower prevalence of depression compared to North America and Europe." (University of Maryland Medical Center) In addition, Mediterranean diets that consist of less red meat and more fish, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, along with moderate wine consumption have a lower incidence of heart disease.

The good news is we know that through supplementation of omega 3 EFA's (alpha-linolenic acid or ALA, Eicosapentaenoic acid or EPA, and Docosahexaenoic acid or DHA) and avoiding trans fatty acids, found in partially hydrogenated oils, margarine and shortening, many of these chronic diseases can be improved or prevented. More good news is that the word is getting out. For instance, infant formulas and prenatal pills are being enhanced with DHA. Helping those children who are breastfed or supplementing with DHA enriched formula to a higher level of intelligence. Also, the addition to prenatal pills is helping to minimize postpartum depression.

Essential fatty acids are just that, essential for life and the quality of life. We must make the appropriate adjustments to change the severity of chronic diseases in this country and learn from others. Completely cutting out fats is not the answer, cutting out the "bad fats" and obtaining the appropriate balance of the "good fats" is the answer, but first we have to know, as a society, what that means. Hopefully, this health tip helps with that plight. At Växa we believe strongly that balance is the key to optimal health and the definition of health is the absence of disease. In addition to your dietary efforts, try Växa's Omegacin, it is a complete balanced blend of 29 bioavailable (easily absorbed by the body) Omega 3-6-9 Fatty Acids and essential lipids, plus phytosterols and antioxidants. Including the key omega 3 EFA's: DHA and EPA. Supplementing with Vaxa's Omegacin is a "No Brainer!"

Sources Of Omega 3 Essential Fatty Acids

Cold Water Fish And Fish Oils (Wild Salmon, Albacore Tuna, Sardines, and Herring)Flax Seeds and Flax Seed Oils

Sources of Omega 6 Essential Fatty Acids

EggsPoultryWhole Grains & CerealsPumpkin SeedsCorn & Various Vegetable Oils Sources of Omega 9 Fatty Acids
AvocadosAlmonds

Psoriatic Arthritis Treatment Options

Are You Having Fun Yet? Pay Attention To Body Signals And Enjoy The Rest Of Your Summer!

Since August is both Pain and Psoriasis Awareness month (Fun Month Right?) I wanted to comment on both of these and their associated manifestations, as well as offer some alternative therapeutic options.

Pain is universally understood as a signal of disease and often the most common symptom that brings a patient to see their doctor. Pain (Ouch!) is an unpleasant sensation localized to a part of the body. It is described with terms like burning, stabbing, twisting, tearing, squeezing, or an emotional reaction like terrifying, nauseating or sickening. Any pain of moderate to high intensity is accompanied by anxiety. It is the task of medicine to preserve and restore health and to relieve suffering, i.e. pain.

Pain can be emotional, physical, psychological or spiritual. When pain is acute it is accompanied by a stress response, which produces increased blood pressure, heart rate, pupil diameter and plasma Cortisol levels. Psoriasis itself is an emotional and painful disease (in more ways than one), let alone factor in its relationship to psoriatic arthritis in susceptible individuals. The good news is by making lifestyle changes today, many of the symptoms can be reduced or in some cases alleviated all together.

Treatment Options For Psoriatic Arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis occurs in 10-30% of people living with psoriasis. It is a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints and connective tissue that can be very painful and even disabling depending on the severity of it and how early the diagnosis is made. The cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, however, the immune system, genetics and environmental factors (emotional stress, toxins, etc.) are thought to be contributors. The onset of psoriatic arthritis typically appears between the ages of 30-50; earlier onset may result in a more severe form of the disease.

A person can have psoriasis for up to 20 years before ever developing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis; however, on average the symptoms begin to show 10 years after the first signs of psoriasis. Although 85% of patients have psoriasis prior to psoriatic arthritis, there are a small number of cases when symptoms of psoriatic arthritis appear first. Early diagnosis will allow for the best possible prognosis. The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are generalized fatigue, nail changes such as pitted nail beds, redness and pain of the eye, swollen fingers or toes; along with joint stiffness, pain and tenderness, as well as sensitivity around the surrounding tissue of the joints. If you have psoriasis and are experiencing any of these symptoms, please inform your dermatologist or general practitioner. He or she will refer you to a physician who specializes in arthritis, often a rheumatologist.

There is no single test that can diagnose a person with psoriatic arthritis. Often it is diagnosed through a process of elimination and observation of symptoms. Many of the traditional tests to diagnose various forms of arthritis do not show conclusively that someone is suffering from psoriatic a rthritis; they do, however, conclude that the patient is not suffering from some other form of arthritis.

Traditional treatment of the condition includes: anti-inflammatory medications and disease-modifying medicines such as methotrexate. Other treatments include: diet, exercise, climate change, surgery, physical therapy, splints and nutritional supplementation. Arthritin is a natural arthritis treatment specifically formulated to help reduce the pain and discomfort of common arthritis and joint degeneration. No other natural arthritis treatment is as comprehensive, or as powerful. Within Arthritin, anti-inflammatory, analgesic and diuretic ingredients create a powerful formula more effective than other brands or than any one ingredient by itself.

Another important note is that since part of the cause is due to environmental factors such as a build up of toxins (from smoking, alcohol consumption, pollutants and pharmaceutical medications) many of those who suffer from psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis improve with cleansing and detoxifying the liver. Our Liver Formula is a homeopathic medicinal formulated to naturally support the body's ability to: promote circulation within the liver, accelerate the regeneration of damaged liver tissues, filter toxins from the bloodstream and help promote the production of bile.

Lastly, the control of psoriasis symptoms may also help to control symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and early diagnosis is your best defense. Don't ignore symptoms of any kind and actively seek treatment for both.

Preparing For School With Allergies And Asthma

It's Back To School Time Again: How To Prepare For School With Allergies And Asthma.

Yes, it is that time of year again. Parents, you understand that the beginning a new school year is always an exciting time for your children. It's also important to remember that children with allergies and asthma face challenges in the classroom caused by dust mites, chalk dust, or mold for example. These challenges can range from discomfort, which makes it hard to concentrate, to symptoms that reduce their ability to participate in activities like recess or physical education.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, it is reported that more than 9 million kids under the age of 18 suffer from allergies and asthma. A good suggestion would be to schedule a meeting with teachers, coaches and the school RN to discuss your child's condition early in the school year. Good communication between your child, yourself and the school will allow for a plan that will favor success in academics and extracurricular activities. Read on for other Allergy/Asthma helpful hints. Do You Suffer From Fall Allergies?

Ragweed and mold are common irritants for those who suffer from allergies or hayfever during the fall. Ragweed begins blooming in mid-August through October. Ragweed is a weed that can grow 4-15 feet tall depending on the species. The most allergy causing species are the ambrosia aratemisiifolia (short/normal ragweed) and ambrosia trifida (giant ragweed). It is estimated that in the United States alone 100 million tons of pollen are produced each season. It can travel through the air up to 400 miles. The weed is normally found in underdeveloped areas or abandoned lots. Mold spores also travel in the wind and are usually problematic during July through late summer. Mold can often be found outside on rotting wood, fallen leaves, in compost piles, gutters, soils, vegetation, etc. Hot, dry days when there is a breeze are the days with the highest pollen and spore counts. Any pollen count that is over 100 is considered to be high. There are certain mold species that release spores during times of extreme humidity, or when fog or dew is present.

Symptoms of fall allergies include: runny nose, congestion, itchy and watery eyes, itchy or scratchy throat (due to postnasal drip), and a cough that is worse in the mornings and at night. For those who have asthma or severe allergies, asthma attacks can occur as a result. Although it may be hard to decipher the difference between a cold and an allergic reaction, note that allergic reactions do not cause fever or achy muscles. If the symptoms persist through the entire fall season then it is safe to say that you are suffering from fall allergies.

Other possible triggers of fall allergies can come from the pollen of the following weeds: cocklebur, lamb's quarter, plantain, pigweed, tumbleweed, sagebrush, etc. Certain trees can also cause reactions. If you know that you have a ragweed allergy it is best to avoid eating the following fruits: honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon, and banana; also avoid the herb chamomile. These are known to be cross-reactive foods and can cause allergic reactions as well.

Medications that are usually suggested to combat these seasonal allergies are antihistamines, decongestants and nasal steroid sprays. All of which are cautioned to have certain possible side effects. There is a very effective and safe alternative, Aller-Sine. Aller-Sine is a scientifically advanced homeopathic medicinal that provides highly specific nutrients to complement the body's natural ability to effectively reduce the overabundance of histamines and other inflammatory cytotoxic substances within the body, which is what most allergies result from. Whereas all over-the-counter medications are "Anti-Histamines," which only mask or cover up the histamines once released, Aller-Sine seeks to stop histamines from being released in the first place! Aller-Sine acts with the body to inhibit the rupturing of mast cells and basophils, from which histamines are released.

Don't suffer this allergy season, from allergies themselves or the medications used to control them. Try guaranteed Aller-Sine; if it doesn't work you have 30 days to return it. The proof is in the pudding!

Tips To Avoid Exposure To Pollen Or Mold Spores This Fall

1. Try not to be outdoors for any extended period of time during the morning hours of 5am-10am. Most of us have to leave for work somewhere between those times, just be brief and keep your car windows closed and your air conditioner on.

2. On that note: Keep your windows and doors of your home and car closed all season. Use an air conditioner to keep it cool inside, not fans or attic fans.

3. Do not hang clothes or linens outside. Dry them in a clothes dryer.

4. The best time to do outside chores is right after heavy rainfall or late in the afternoon.

5. After spending any extended period of time outdoors shower, wash hair and change clothing.

6. Avoid cross-reactive foods: honeydew, cantaloupe, watermelon, banana and chamomile.

7. Use liquid tears to help flush out pollen or mold spores from the eyes.

8. Take Aller-Sine daily to stop the release of histamines and other cytotoxic substances.

9. Avoid exposure to insect sprays, tobacco smoke, and, in general, pollution.

10. Note local pollen counts. The National Allergy Bureau is a good source to learn about the pollen count in your region. You can contact them by going to www.aaaai.org and clicking on to pollen counts at the very top of the web page.