Autism - Signs, Symptoms, Treatments, Resources, Support for Autism

What Is the DAN! Protocol, and What are DAN! Doctors? DAN! stands for “Defeat Autism Now!” and is a project which was initiated by The Autism Research Institute to educate parents, caregivers and therapists about the biomedical approach to healing autism and biomedical testing and research. Defeat Autism Now (DAN!) is a project of the Autism Research Institute, founded in the 1960s by Dr. Bernard Rimland. DAN! doctors are trained in the "DAN! Protocol," an approach to autism treatment which starts with the idea that autism is a biomedical disorder. Specifically, DAN! doctors feel that autism is a disorder caused by a combination of lowered immune response, external toxins from vaccines and other sources, and problems caused by certain foods. Mission Statement Some of the major interventions suggested by DAN! practitioners include: - Nutritional supplements, including certain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and essential fatty acids - Special diets totally free of gluten (fr...

One of the often used methods to treat Autism is medication. After all, it is usually the cheaper and more convenient alternative to other available treatment methods. With any medication, it’s important to make yourself aware of side effects. Many parents consider any side effects to be minor as compared to the symptoms their children are currently facing. Some professionals have the opinion that medications don’t “cure” anything. They merely conceal and minimize symptoms. Even so, many look to medications as a temporary relief from troublesome side effects including self-injurious behavior. The medications that are used to treat autism are Neuroleptics or “major tranquilizers”. These should not be confused with “minor tranquilizers” such as Valium and Xanax which are often prescribed to treat anxiety. Unlike minor tranqulizers, neuroleptics regulate the use of dopamine in the brain and often helps with autistic symptoms such as self-injury and obsessive, repetitive behaviors. Whe...

Over the years, it has been debated whether or not factors other than neurological ones have anything to do with Autism and other Neurological Disorders. Studies have found that many ND’s begin in the stomach and can be results of a poor or lacking diet. Gluten has been one of the things connected to Autism, and many parents adopt a no bread - no dairty - all gluten free diet for their children. Also, it is believed that the bodies of children are often overwhelmed with heavy metals, toxins, viruses (from vaccines), and bacteria. These factors often cause a slower or even stopped biochemical pathways to the body. Biomedical Treatments is based upon the belief that the neurological symptoms experienced are the direct result of the physical ailments that children are having, and if the physical is treated, a great deal of symptoms can be alleviated. The main steps in a Biomedical Treatment are: 1. Decrease the level of toxins 2.Help the stomach to heal 3. Increase nutrients 4. Get rid ...