As inulin or rifaximin begin to normalize bacterial overgrowth in kids who are on the spectrum you can expect initial signs of improvement to be in the areas of awareness and engagement. This is due to the reduction of propionic acid and other potential psychoactive compounds which have a sedative effect on kids much like a medical sedative. As the level of propionic acid drops, children begin to show more awareness, improved eye contact and increased engagement with those around them. You may also see improvements in digestive issues, reversal of food intolerance or improvement in skin inflammation. nnSigns of neurological recovery can take longer to appear and can be more subtle as it can take up to 4 weeks for the oils to penetrate the brain and contribute to the reduction of inflammation. n

If a child’s level of aggression poses a danger to themselves (headbanging) or others (biting, punching, throwing objects, etc.), I will often start the child on the protocol, including continuous rifaximin plus a vagus nerve stimulator. My goal is to get the child’s aggression to decrease as soon as possible.nnI will also start them on fluticasone if there are any sinus symptoms and refer them for a thorough dental exam.

Yes. The Nemechek Protocol for Autonomic Recovery is designed to reduce elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and the presence of abnormally primed M1- microglia. These 2 pathological processes prevent recovery from brain injury, interfere with neuronal/synaptic pruning, interfere with brain development in utero, and are a key feature of the neurodegenerative disorders (Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, ALS). It is capable of reversing a wide range of chronic neurological conditions (migraine and cluster headaches, chronic fatigue, generalized anxiety, depression/PTSD, ADD/ADHD) as well as intestinal disorders (heartburn, reflux, IBS, constipation, diarrhea, etc.), and it’s potent anti-inflammatory effect substantially reduces symptoms associated with autoimmune disorders (Crohn’s, psoriasis, MS, rheumatoid arthritis, Hashimoto’s, etc.)

I do not believe hair analysis is necessary in managing autism. Autism is a chronic neurological inflammatory condition, not an issue with micronutrients.

There is some research suggesting that bacterial overgrowth of the small intestinal tract can interfere with the normal growth of a child in terms of height and weight. My clinical experience supports this research. I have seen many children who are small for their size experience 3-5 inch growth spurts in as little a 3-6 months.