Autism Recovery is possible!

Many parents report positive changes in their child with autism once they began using supplements.  Often times, supplementation is one piece of a larger intervention including dietary changes. However, many parents begin the process by administering vitamins. In particular, Vitamin C seems to provide substantial benefit.

Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin that plays a role in various systems of the body.  It is found in the brain, boosts the immune system and it acts as an anti-oxidant.  Additionally, many children with autism experience increased gastrointestinal function after taking Vitamin C.

Parents report a wide range of positive benefits believed to be the result of taking Vitamin C.  As mentioned, gastrointestinal health improves.  Increased eye contact, improved skin color, sleeping patterns and cognitive ability are commonly reported. Since Vitamin C is highly concentrated in the brain, these changes should be no surprise.
The research is inconclusive as to whether or not children with autism are deficient in Vitamin C, as there are contradictory studies. Some parents administer Vitamin C with other vitamins, so it can be difficult to pin-point if the positive affects are specific to this nutrient.  

Vitamin C has been researched for decades and is considered safe. Taking too much Vitamin C can result in diarrhea, because when the body is saturated, Vitamin C acts as a laxative.  This is how many parents ultimately determine the proper dose for their child. Once their child displays saturation, the dosage is adjusted and considered ideal for that child.

It is recommended parents consult a physician to determine the proper dose of Vitamin C.  Typically, the supplement will be divided and taken throughout the day.  Parents are advised to begin with ¼ of the target amount and gradually increase dosage over a two week period.  To better determine the effects, it is recommended to begin only this regimen and keep everything else consistent, so any changes can be directly correlated to Vitamin C.

Often, the recommended dose of certain vitamins exceeds the traditional or government recommended amount, which causes many pediatricians to disagree with its implementation.  Practitioners using the DAN! Protocol can be found on the organization’s web-site. Locating a professional familiar with children that have autism is necessary to safely and effectively design and implement supplementation.  

Vitamin C can be purchased over the counter in a variety of locations.  Depending upon the child’s ability to tolerate taste, texture or swallow a pill, a little searching may be required to find a product that meets your needs.  Vitamin C can be purchased in a buffered form which may be tolerated better.

Some parents report seeing changes within three days of beginning this regimen and almost all parents notice changes before reaching the target dose. Some children seemingly feel worse when beginning a supplementation program, as toxins are released and biological processes need time to adjust.  This is why having a professional to consult with is critical.

Many parents choose not to disclose using Vitamin C, so comments regarding changes in the child are purely objective.  Often, teachers, family members and other persons in a child’s life will notice differences and bring them to the parent’s attention. Parents should take detailed notes and keep records to support their observations and to share with their child’s team.

Vitamin C is one nutrient of many recommended for children with autism.  For years, parents have reported seeing a wide range of physical and cognitive benefits.  Restoring the health and wellness of children with autism is possible and it can begin with a little Vitamin C.

For more information:

DAN! Protocol – research on biomedical interventions, including Vitamin C.  Parents can also locate a practitioner in their area familiar with this protocol.  www.autism.com