Three Common Questions About Supplements

Article At A Glance:

• In addition to quality, toxin-free foods, supplements can be a powerful way to help children with autism heal their gut dysfunction and improve their behavior.
• Thousands of clinical studies show evidence of the benefits of supplements for children on the autism spectrum.
• Introduce supplements one at a time, beginning with a digestive enzyme for mealtime.

We've discussed that what our children eat profoundly influences their behavior and how quality food can help heal their underlying gut dysfunction.

But diet alone won't necessarily help them reach their full potential. Although theoretically, our children could get all the vitamins and nutrients needed from food, this is nearly impossible to achieve in practice. That's why the 2R protocol guides us first to remove harmful toxins and then repair the body using supplements. Here are three common questions I get from parents wanting to begin using supplements for their children:

1) Can Supplements Help With the Symptoms of Autism?

Thousands of studies have shown the advantages of supplements for children with autism. And although every child is different, there are some common areas of biological dysfunction that supplements can help. Some of the main ones include gastrointestinal issues, inflammation, and helping the body detox. Supplements can also help with mood, sleep, and tantrums. Don't overlook the overwhelming evidence of the benefits of supplements!

2) Are All Supplements Created Equal?

Unfortunately, some supplements are not as beneficial as others. And while the labels tell you what's in it, the quality of ingredients in processing isn't well regulated, so that the absorption rate can vary a lot. Some companies use a deceptive technique called “dusting,” where they put key ingredients in a supplement to market it even though the quantity isn't enough to make a difference.

3) Should I Try Multiple Supplements at the Same Time?

As you first make your way into the world of supplements, start with just one at a time. Children on the autism spectrum are sensitive, so it's important to gauge if new supplements cause adverse reactions. I suggest using a calendar and taking notes about mood or behavioral changes you observe for each new supplement your child takes.

Supplements can feel intimidating. If you're a beginner, it's a good idea to choose a digestive enzyme with meals that has the ingredient DPP4. DPP4 can help break down foods, increase absorption, and lower the amount of inflammation.

Using quality supplements (alongside organic, unprocessed foods) can go a long way in helping children with autism manage their symptoms, heal their gut, and reach their potential.

*This website is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by a healthcare professional.