The Autism Spectrum Practice

What is the Autism Spectrum Practice at Van Zant Medical Group?

We understand that children who have been diagnosed with autism may experience extra challenges medically. Our practice is designed to identify the “how” and “why” of these medical circumstances. We use a functional medicine approach to uncover ways to help these children flourish and thrive!

The role that functional medicine can play in improving a child’s life cannot be understated. This is particularly true of children on the spectrum, who often have imbalances that can be successfully addressed via appropriate testing and intervention. The Autism Spectrum Practice offers a multi-pronged approach, such as looking at nutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, food allergies and sensitivities, gut microbiome imbalances, methylation issues, mitochondrial dysfunction, and mold and heavy metal toxicity. Genomic analysis is also available.

The knowledge of genetic polymorphisms in autism is exploding. Understanding a person’s genetic make-up offers a powerful tool to individualize treatment options. These genomic evaluations can identify the presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs, pronounced “snips”), which are genetic variations not commonly found in the general population. Examples of these SNPs in autism include difficulties in making neuronal connections in the brain, limits on the ability to detoxify environmental chemicals, and overexpression of an inflammatory brain chemical called glutamate.

The ability to evaluate our genomic predisposition is rapidly changing the medical landscape, and we are excited to be able to offer this to the autism community.

Research on mitochondria has also greatly increased over the last several years. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells. They produce the energy that is utilized throughout the whole body. Mitochondrial function is now recognized as a crucial component of treating people with autism, as breakdowns along the cycle of energy production are a common occurrence in this population. Through specialized testing at the Autism Spectrum Practice, mitochondrial dysfunction can be detected and specifically addressed.

Treating a child with complex medical issues is not easy, fast, or straightforward. The Autism Spectrum Practice is fully dedicated to walking step-by-step with children and their families on the journey to optimal well-being, working layer by layer through evaluating gut function, detoxification, and the functioning of biochemical processes.

If you are looking to get the support you need to help a child on the spectrum, you will not find a better approach than the Autism Spectrum Clinic at Van Zant Medical Group in Morton. Our goal is to help your child reach their fullest potential and lead their best life.