Autism, ADD & ADHD Natural Treatments

NatureMed Clinic Denver/Boulder

Dr. Steve Parcell, ND uses a biomedical approach to treating ADD/ADHD and autism put forth by the Autism Research Institute and Defeat Autsim Now!. He  completed the Defeat Autism Now! physicians training course in 2004. He has been serving the Boulder/ Denver area for over 6 years.

Reported rates of autism in the United States increased from less than 3 per 10,000 children in the 1970s to more than 30 per 10,000 children in the 1990s, a 10-fold increase. Between 1994 and 2003 the number of children being classified as having autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has increased six-fold. The number continues to rise. Nationwide the prevalence rate for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is 1 in 166.

In Colorado, 700 children are diagnosed each year. Though ADD and ADHD are "on the spectrum" these conditions are more easily treated. Autism provides two challenges to our society; it is a growing problem to which no single cause has been assigned and there is no single effective conventional treatment.
Approach to Treating ADD, ADHD and Autism

I believe in an outcome-based approach. This means that treatments need to work within a reasonable timeframe. Individualized treatment plans are designed for each unique case. An emphasis is put on discovering underlying causes of dysfunction.

We believe Autism is most effectively treated by addressing the underlying causes. Though no single cause has been determined, the following environmental, biochemical and genetic factors have been linked to autism:

1) genetic defects in a biochemical reaction called methylation

2) defects in glutathione activity leading to problems with detoxification of heavy metals, pesticides and other chemicals

3) low levels of a digestive enzyme called DPP4 in the intestinal tract

4) neurotransmitter (brain chemical) imbalances

5) low blood levels of the amino acid cysteine

6) genetic defects in the ability to use vitamin B6

7) elevated body burden of mercury (a powerful neurotoxin)

8) immune dysfunction

9) chronic infections

10) pure genetic causes (more severe)

It is likely that the true cause is not a single factor but a genetic predisposition coupled with certain environmental factors.
 
What to expect

At the first visit I ask that you bring your child for the first visit. I like to meet with both parents. At the second visit we will make a plan for the next three months and begin treatments and testing as necessary. Follow up are every four weeks until the child has improved.

At the second visit we usually go over test results and discuss progress. It is not necessary to bring your child to this visit but fine if you do want to.

Brody had severe food allergies