In your practice, you may encounter children or adolescents with neurodevelopmental disorders, such as intellectual disabilities, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), learning disabilities (dyslexia, dysgraphia, etc.), motor disorders, and communication disorders. These terms refer to delayed, divergent, or atypical neural and brain development, categorizing individuals as “neurodivergent” rather than “neurotypical.” Neurodevelopmental disorders often originate during the prenatal or perinatal period and manifest as disruptions in developmental skills acquisition, such as fine and gross motor abilities, language, social and personal skills, cognition, and daily living activities. For example, individuals with ASD often experience challenges with social skills and fine motor skills, while those with ADHD may struggle with daily activities due to acute attention deficits.
Rather than focusing on each condition individually, this article explores how naturopathy, specifically micronutrition, can serve as a holistic care method. To illustrate, we will examine two clinical cases involving ADHD and ASD.
Micronutrition and ADHD: Analyzing the Terrain
As with any naturopathic intervention, the first step is a thorough anamnesis to assess the individual’s terrain.
Case Study: Lucas
Lucas, an 8-year-old with ADHD and hyperactivity, also has a learning disability (dysgraphia). He is supported by a specialized teaching assistant and sees a psychologist.
Lucas displays signs of oppositional defiance, including hitting, biting, difficulty expressing emotions calmly, and restlessness, particularly at bedtime. He experiences frequent outbursts and aggression, as well as insomnia and anxiety.
Lucas’ parents sought a micronutrition consultation upon their general practitioner’s recommendation. He is currently on methylphenidate, the standard treatment for ADHD, and has no other significant medical conditions or intolerances.
While Lucas’ recent bloodwork results appeared normal, a more detailed micronutritional nalysis revealed deficiencies:
● Zinc Deficiency: Studies, including one published in the Turkish Journal of Psychiatry, have observed low zinc levels in individuals with oppositional behaviors. Although the link remains unclear, zinc supplementation has been shown to help regulate behavior. Lucas began zinc supplementation to correct this deficiency.
● Magnesium Deficiency: A 2019 meta-analysis found lower serum magnesium levels in individuals with ADHD compared to neurotypical controls. Another 2020 study demonstrated that an 8-week magnesium and vitamin D supplementation protocol reduced symptoms like conduct problems, social difficulties, anxiety, and shyness. Magnesium is crucial for neurotransmitter function, including dopamine,
norepinephrine, and serotonin. Lucas was prescribed 6 mg of magnesium per kg of body weight daily.
Beyond micronutrition, additional recommendations included a phytotherapeutic plan (e.g., essential oils) to address anxiety and sleep issues, and reducing refined sugar intake.
ASD and the Gut Microbiome
Case Study: Lucile
Lucile, a 12-year-old diagnosed with ASD (Asperger’s type) without intellectual disability, was diagnosed at age 10. Her mother sought consultation for Lucile’s chronic abdominal pain, frequent loose stools, and agitation. While Lucile does not exhibit oppositional defiance, her clinical picture includes school isolation, anxiety impacting her digestion, and self-stimulatory rocking. Blood tests were normal, but a stool microbiome analysis revealed low levels of Lactobacillus reuteri. Longitudinal studies have highlighted the connection between the gut microbiome and autism-related behavioral symptoms. Research shows that autistic individuals often have distinct microbiomes compared to neurotypicals, and fecal microbiota transplants have reduced symptoms in some cases. In Lucile’s case, her low Lactobacillus reuteri levels align with studies linking this bacteria to the SHANK3 gene, commonly found in autism. Supplementing Lactobacillus reuteri has been shown to reduce agitation, improve cognitive and motor skills, and regulate digestion. How does the microbiome influence the brain? The gut and brain communicate via the vagus nerve, which acts as a bridge between the two. Gut bacteria send signals through this pathway, influencing oxytocin levels, a hormone associated with social bonding. Increased oxytocin levels appear to improve behavior in autistic individuals. Additional recommendations for Lucile included a tailored diet plan, phytotherapy, and stress management techniques to address her anxiety and agitation.
Conclusion :
Micronutrition is making remarkable strides, particularly in addressing neurodivergent conditions. With rising rates of neurodevelopmental diagnoses, practitioners must embrace multidisciplinary approaches that integrate the latest scientific advances. Naturopathy, with its holistic focus, has a vital role to play in managing these disorders, helping to foster improved outcomes for neurodivergent individuals.
Bibliography :
orbik O, Olgun A, Kirmizigül P, Akman S. Karşi Olma Karşi Gelme Bozukluğunda Plazma Cinko ve Bakir Düzeyleri [Plasma zinc and copper levels in boys with oppositional defiant disorder]. Turk Psikiyatri Derg. 2004 Winter;15(4):276-81
Effatpanah M, Rezaei M, Effatpanah H, Effatpanah Z, Varkaneh HK, Mousavi SM, Fatahi S, Rinaldi G, Hashemi R. Magnesium status and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): A meta-analysis. Psychiatry Res. 2019 Apr;274:228-234.
Autistic individuals often engage in repetitive movements or behaviors, commonly referred to as “stimming,” as a way to self-regulate their central nervous system. This need to release built-up tension or sensory input helps them manage overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or sensory overload. Stimming behaviors, such as rocking, hand-flapping, or repeating sounds, are not merely habits but
essential coping mechanisms that bring balance to their nervous system. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0031938422002712
Leave a Reply