Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids offer great promise.
Immune therapies (pentoxifyllin, intravenous immunoglobulin, transfer factor, and colostrum) benefit selected cases. Secretin, a triggering factor for digestion, is presently under investigation. Vitamins A, B3, C, and folic acid the minerals calcium and zinc cod liver oil and digestive enzymes, all offer benefit. Many nutrient supplements are beneficial and well tolerated, including dimethylglycine (DMG) and a combination of pyridoxine (vitamin B6) and magnesium, both of which benefit roughly half of ASD cases. Documented sulfoxidation-sulfation inadequacies call for sulfur-sulfhydryl repletion and other liver p450 support. Detoxification of mercury and other heavy metals by DMSA/ DMPS chelation can have marked benefit. Gastrointestinal improvement rests on controlling Candida and other parasites, and using probiotic bacteria and nutrients to correct dysbiosis and decrease gut permeability. Individualized IgG or IgE testing can identify other troublesome foods but not non-immune mediated food sensitivities. Dietary restrictions, including removal of milk and other casein dairy products, wheat and other gluten sources, sugar, chocolate, preservatives, and food coloring are beneficial and prerequisite to benefit from other interventions.
Behavioral modification and structured education are beneficial but insufficient. Parental participation, advanced testing protocols, and eclectic treatment strategies have driven progress toward cure. Autism and allied autistic spectrum disorders (ASD) present myriad behavioral, clinical, and biochemical abnormalities.