What is biocorrection in autism?

 

Introduction to Biocorrection in Autism and ASD

The general term "autism" encompasses several syndromes that form Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Typically, classical medical protocols suggest correcting this pathology using therapeutic methods such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), developmental, physiotherapeutic, and medication therapies. Unfortunately, these do not treat the pathology itself but only correct its manifestations.

However, there is an alternative medicine approach that has become a salvation for many facing this disease: biocorrection.

The Principle of Biocorrection in Biomedicine

Biocorrection can be considered a specific case of biomedicine, whose main principle is that if there is a disease in the body, it means there is a dysfunction of some organ or system responsible for this disease, and there are reasons for it. If the causes are identified and eliminated, the disease goes away.

This could be because a function is not being performed correctly or a biochemical reaction is not proceeding as it should.

Why does dysfunction occur? Because there are damaging factors negatively affecting certain organs or body systems. This happens when we give the body too much of something or fail to provide something it needs to function.

Therefore, the task of biomedicine is to find these damaging factors and eliminate them.

For example, an inflammatory process initiated in the body due to a pathogenic load. Here, the excess is the pathogenic load. This could include fungi, viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens harmful to humans.

Or, a disruption in the absorption of certain nutrients (vitamins and minerals), leading to deficiencies and, consequently, improper functioning of organs and systems, including the brain. This disrupts neurotransmitter production.

Historical Context and the Shift in Understanding Autism

In the late 1950s and early 1960s in the USA, autism was believed to be caused by the improper upbringing of children by cold and unaffectionate parents, leaving the child with self-isolation as their only comfort. Austrian scientist Bruno Bettelheim, in his book "The Empty Fortress: Infantile Autism and the Birth of the Self," likened the condition to being in a concentration camp, an experience he had firsthand in Germany during World War II.

However, in 1964, Bernard Rimland (1928 – 2006), a doctor of philosophy and American psychologist, revolutionized the understanding of autism by suggesting it was a disorder related to abnormalities in brain development.

Rimland, a father of three, noticed complex behavior in his son Mark, born in 1956, which was later confirmed to be autism by a pediatrician. This condition was relatively unknown at the time.

His first book, "Infantile Autism: The Syndrome and Its Implications for a Neural Theory of Behavior" (1964), significantly altered perceptions of the disorder. In 1965, he founded the Autism Society of America (ASA) to defend the rights of parents and advocate for autistic children and their families at all levels of society.

Rimland's Legacy and the Autism Research Institute (ARI)

The Autism Research Institute (ARI) was established in 1967 under Rimland's guidance. The institute focused on identifying the true causes of autism and related disorders to find safe and effective treatments.

One hypothesis explored by ARI was that eliminating the underlying causes of autism could resolve the condition, emphasizing the need for their identification.

The institute's investigations challenged several practices and theories, including vaccination, chelation therapy, and facilitated communication, and debunked myths such as the link between secretin and autism.

Biomedical Findings and Their Implications for Autism

ARI's research indicated distinct differences between autistic children and their neurotypical peers, particularly in terms of immune system robustness and gastrointestinal health. These children often experience a range of issues including allergies, food intolerances, enzyme deficiencies, gut flora imbalance (dysbiosis), poor nutrient absorption (malabsorption), and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Further analyses identified the presence of heavy metals in their systems, alongside disturbances in metabolic pathways and the methylation cycle. Urine screenings revealed unusual bacterial metabolites not typically found in the general population, as well as opiate-like residues. These residues are believed to originate from undigested proteins found in cow's milk (casein) and certain cereals (gluten from wheat, rye, barley), which these children struggle to properly break down.

This inability to digest casein and gluten can lead to a condition resembling opiate dependency, with affected children predominantly consuming foods containing these substances.

The consequent narcotic-like effects may manifest in a variety of symptoms, such as diminished sensitivity to pain, frequent screaming, tantrums, altered sleep patterns, muscle discomfort, seizures, challenges in speech development, and a predisposition to neurological excitability, often misinterpreted as readiness for brain seizures.

Challenges and Controversies in Autism Treatment

However, this is just a part of the complex picture. Particularly alarming is the concept of brain poisoning through opiate-like toxins and the metabolites from harmful gut bacteria, which may lead to severe headaches, destructive behaviors, aggression, and self-harm. In such scenarios, medical professionals often resort to prescribing psychotropic medications and implementing behavioral training to manage these destructive behaviors.

Subsequent research has suggested that autism may stem from biochemical imbalances, influenced significantly by environmental factors.

Rimland's Impact and the Shift Towards Holistic Treatment

Bernard Rimland recognized the possibility of a genetic predisposition to autism, adding a layer of complexity to its causes. His assertion that autism could be "treated—or at least ameliorated—through a combination of biomedical and behavioral therapies" sparked diverse reactions, ranging from skepticism within the medical community to optimism among affected families.

Following the publication of his groundbreaking book, Rimland became a beacon of hope for many, receiving countless letters and calls from people eager to share their experiences and seek guidance.

Nutritional Strategies and the Path to Recovery

Further investigations into gastrointestinal issues, prevalent among children with autism, revealed that these conditions could hinder the brain's access to essential nutrients and vitamins. This nutritional deficit disrupts the body's biochemical balance and slows the processes vital for speech and cognitive development.

In response, a comprehensive nutritional strategy was devised, aimed at improving gut health and supplementing the diet with essential nutrients to address these deficiencies. This approach facilitates the body's natural healing process, laying the groundwork for potential recovery.

Conclusion: Supporting Recovery Through Biocorrection

When a child shows marked improvement in development and begins to move beyond the diagnostic criteria for autism following biocorrection, it signifies a significant step towards restoring optimal bodily function. It becomes imperative for parents to support this progression by maintaining a tailored nutritional plan and continuing with biocorrection practices.