Anxiety and OCD

Anxiety and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) are commonly seen in autism. This cycle of unwanted, intrusive thoughts is distressing for the person suffering and their loved ones watching them struggle. Thankfully, we know there are underlying issues that are treatable and can give the person suffering needed relief. Here is a short list of possibilities:

• PANS/PANDAS
• Cerebral Folate Deficiency
• Low cholesterol
• Vitamin and/or mineral deficiencies:
  • Iron
  • Zinc
  • B1
  • B6
  • Folate (vitamin B9)
  • B12
• Elevated glutamate and low GABA
• Gastrointestinal Issues:
  • Overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria in the gut
  • Low diversity in gut flora
• Elevated Histamine
• Neuroinflammation
• Poor adrenal function and norepinephrine regulation
  • i.e. the body is stuck in fight or flight mode
• Retained primitive reflexes