Toxins and the Explosion of Autism

Toxins & the Explosion of Autism courtesy of ourhealthcoop.com Autism rates in the U.S. have skyrocketed in the last few decades. In 2000, about one in 150 children were diagnosed with autism. Today, it’s one in 88. As a Utah resident, our own Dr. Rodier lives in the state with the highest rate of autism in the U.S. (one in 57 boys). And he doesn’t think it’s a coincidence that Utah is also home to the #6 and #11 most polluted U.S. cities in terms of short-term particle pollution. “Toxicity is the only way to explain this explosion,” Dr. Rodier offered, “the genes have not changed – pollution has gotten worse.” Research note: Women who live close to freeways have a higher than average number of children born with autism.

Genes Influence Ability to Detoxify & Vulnerability to Autism The debate over the cause (or causes) of autism continues amongst medical professionals and researchers. While some people suspect immunizations, the CDC has consistently refuted the link between autism and vaccinations. Some parents disagree, noting that many vaccines contain mercury and aluminum, heavy metals used as preservatives and considered toxic for the brain, especially in children’s maturing brains. There’s still plenty of debate over the relationship between vaccines and autism. While Dr. Rodier’s totally against polluting the body with any added toxins, he’s quick to remind us that vaccines are often necessary for keeping other potential health problems at bay. So, why are some children able to thrive in our modern, more polluted world, while others suffer with autism and compromised neurological function? The short answer? Those with autism can’t detoxify dangerous chemicals as well as those without autism. This “sub-par ability to detoxify” is genetic. Sensitive genes doesn’t mean that all is lost though.

Belly Bacteria Play a MAJOR Role in Detoxification! And here’s where it gets really interesting. If the gut lacks the right “detox bacteria,” ingested toxins can migrate out of the gut, travel through the bloodstream, and then lodge in the brain. This process (called endotoxemia) causes inflammation in the brain and irritates tissues, making them function less efficiently. It is generally not known that the gut bacteria has the same capacity to detoxify pollutants as the liver. Consequently, the quality and function of our friendly bacteria greatly influences how our body handles potential neurotoxins. That’s why the food we eat is critical for fueling healthy detoxification and preventing inflammation. This “brain-gut” connection is the subject of intense research at the moment. “Think of an engine overheating,” Dr. Rodier explained. “How’s it going to run? It’s the same thing with the human body: Inflamed oxidized tissues and cells don’t function optimally.” Another useful concept is that of “postbiotics.” It turns out that everything that enters our body via the GI tract is managed, processed, metabolized, or “checked” by our friendly bacteria. If they don’t function at their best, any substance – including drugs, food particles, and toxins – may end up being harmful to the brain and other organs; the same harm would not occur in children whose gut bacteria is healthier.

A Look at the Poop: A Surprising Link A study published last month in the medical journal PLOS One discovered a surprising link between autistic symptoms and abnormal bacteria levels in the gut. The study focused on 20 neurotypical and 20 autistic children. By studying bacteria levels in fecal samples from each of the children, researchers were able to compare the gut microbiomes (or “bacterial communities”) of the two groups. They found much less diverse bacteria in the autistic children’s poop. Researchers had actually expected low bacterial diversity to correlate with gastrointestinal symptoms. Not so. Instead, they found a lack of bacterial diversity correlated with autistic symptoms. Specifically, they found three strains of missing bacteria – prevotella, coprococcus, and veillonellaceae.

Bacteria, Babies, and Breastfeeding Bacteria levels in the gut (which we inherit from our mothers) are heavily responsible for postnatal development. Researchers have indicated a link between increasing levels of C-reactive proteins (CRPs) in expectant mothers and a heightened chance of a child developing autism. CRP biomarkers indicate levels of inflammation in the body. Leading autism researchers found that pregnant women with elevated CRP levels in the highest quintile of those studied had a 40% greater risk of bearing a child with autism than those in the lowest CRP quintile. Thus, a lack of balanced gut flora may lead to gastrointestinal inflammation that then could travel to the brain, causing autistic symptoms. New mothers can help reinforce a healthy microbiome in their baby’s gut and reduce the chance of their child developing autism simply by breastfeeding.

The Future of Probiotics While researchers cannot yet promise ways to replace specific missing bacteria with targeted probiotics strains, they are busy working on this problem. The “old” type of research focused on examining the benefits of isolated bacteria strains cultivated in labs. The “new” research will be all about how strains interact within communities and how to foster specific microenvironments, even if each valuable strain cannot be isolated or reproduced outside the body. That’s precisely the mission of the Human Microbiome Project. Reading the tea leaves: Probiotic therapies will help treat chronic diseases with more targeted and natural interventions. Pretty cool, eh?   A Nutritional Approach for Detoxification

Dr. Rodier recommends several categories of supplements that can help with autism: detoxifiers, fibers, probiotics, and gut health supporters.

First up to bat: a diet rich in plant-based foods, which feed friendly bacteria and fuel the liver’s detoxification pathways.

Second, specific supplements other than probiotics. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is one of his favorite supplements in general and his first choice for detoxification, as it readily binds with metals and other harmful substances and escorts them out of the body. It’s sort of like having your own personal bodyguard to deal with the bad guys! As a bonus, ALA is a potent antioxidant, addressing free radicals created by toxins in the body.

N-acetyl cysteine (NAC) and glutamine are precursors to glutathione, a master antioxidant and powerful liver detoxifier. Dr. Rodier takes ALA and NAC himself, and naturopaths regularly prescribe glutamine to help heal gut tissue (for leaky gut and toxin migration issues).

And don’t forget the fiber. Prebiotics (insoluble fibers high in plant-based foods) feed friendly bacteria, so supplementing with prebiotics is just as important as supplementing with soluble fibers, which bind to toxins for elimination. Once you boost fiber, additional probiotics may be necessary – sometimes in massive amounts, multiple times a day – to reverse a gross imbalance in bad bacteria.

The good news? When the gastrointestinal symptoms that so many autistic children experience are managed – through the use of probiotics and other anti-inflammatory and detoxifying supplements – their behavioral and communicative problems can improve dramatically.

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nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Probiotics

 

 

 

 

Primary Benefits of nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Probiotics*:

• 5 billion active probiotic organisms
• 5 scientifically chosen probiotic stains
  • Streptococcus salivarius
  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus
  • Lactobacillus rhamnosus
  • Lactobacillus paracasei
  • Lactobacillus plantarum
• LiveBac® technology
• Promotes a healthy immune system
• Provides good bacteria to promote healthy digestion
• Promotes stomach comfort and bowel regularity
• Promotes colon health
• Supports healthy teeth and gums

Key Ingredients Found in nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Probiotics:
Probiotics have been called the functional ingredient of the decade. Clinical research has shown their positive impact on immunity, digestive health and much more. Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of essential bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and are increasingly important in the American diet as we continue to rely on processed foods.
Streptococcus salivariusS. salivarius colonizes the upper respiratory tract within the first few hours of life. This is the principal bacterium in the human oral cavity and also resides in the oropharynx and upper respiratory tract. It is the first bacterium to form the dental plaque before being joined by numerous other species of various genera. Currently, research is being done to determine the role between S. salivarius and halitosis. Also, further knowledge on this organism can help with research on maintaining healthy teeth, especially in children. S. salivarius is a beneficial bacterium that helps maintain healthy gums and teeth.*
Lactobacillus rhamnosus 
L. rhamnosus is a strain of probiotics that aids in balancing the gastrointestinal microflora. It is one of the most intensely studied bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract.  One of the remarkable things about L. rhamnosus is its ability to tolerate and even thrive in the harsh acidic conditions normally found in the stomach. L. rhamnosus is believed to support immune function in healthy adults, particularly in promoting a healthy urinary tract system (acidic condition). Research has shown that L. rhamnosus can help the body maintain gastric epithelial cells, promoting the integrity of the stomach lining.* 
Lactobacillus salivariusL. salivarius resides in the mouth and small intestine. It has been shown effective in balancing bacteria in the mouth, thus,promoting dental health. Researchers studied animal response to L. salivarius. They noticed the particular role of L. salivarius in supporting homeostasis within the intestines. Therefore, L. salivarius may be related to supporting a healthy immune response.    

Lactobacillus paracaseiLike other lactobacillus species, L. paracasei is acid and bile resistant. This aids in the bacteria’s ability to travel, viably, from the mouth through the stomach and finally into the intestine. L. paracasei, along with L. rhamnosus, has the ability to survive in the acidic conditions of the stomach.
Lactobacillus plantarumL. plantarum has been used in the process of fermenting foods for hundreds of years. It promotes a normal digestive tract and has been shown to promote healthy digestion. One of the most amazing talents of L. plantarum is its ability to synthesize L-lysine, an essential amino acid. L. plantarum supports a healthy mucosal lining.


Scientific Support of nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Probiotics:

• Bekkali, N., et al. The role of a probiotics mixture in the treatment of childhood constipation: a pilot study. Nutrition Journal. 6: 17, 2007.
• Broekaert, I. and Walker, A. Probiotics and Chronic Disease. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology. 40(3): 270-274, 2006.
• Brudnak, M. Probiotics as an adjuvant to detoxification protocols. Medical Hypotheses. 58(5): 382-385, 2002.
• Fernandes, C., et al. Control of diarrhea by lactobacilli. Journal of Applied Nutrition.  40: 32-43, 1988.
• Friedrich, M. A bit of culture for children: probiotics may improve health and fight disease. Journal of the American Medical Association. 284(11): 1365-1366, 2000.
• Frohmader, T., et al. Decrease in frequency of liquid stool in enterally fed critically ill patients given the multispecies probiotic VSL#3: a pilot trial. American Journal of Critical Care. 19: 1-11, 2010.
• Gill, H. and Guarner, F. Probiotics and human health: a clinical perspective. Postgraduate Medical Journal. 80(947): 516-526, 2004.
• Guarner, F. and Malagelada, J. Gut flora in health and disease. Lancet. 361(9356): 512-519, 2003.
• Ljungh, Å., et al. Isolation, selection and characteristics of Lactobacillus paracasei subsp. paracasei F19. Microbial Ecology in Health and Disease. 3: 4-6, 2002.
• Marteau, P., et al. Protection from gastrointestinal diseases with the use of probiotics. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 73(Suppl): 430S-436S, 2001.
• Parracho, H., et al. Differences between the gut microflora of children with autistic spectrum disorders and that of healthy children. Journal of Medical Microbiology. 54: 987-991, 2005.
• Roberfroid, M. Prebiotics and probiotics: are they functional foods? American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 71(Suppl): 1682S-1687S, 2000.
• Rolfe, R. The role of probiotic cultures in the control of gastrointestinal health. Journal of Nutrition. 130: 396S-402S, 2000.
• Szajewska, H. and Mrukowicz, J. Probiotics in the treatment and prevention of acute infectious diarrhea in infants and children: a systematic review of published randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition. 33: S17-S25, 2001.
• Van Niel, W., et al. Lactobacillus therapy for acute infectious diarrhea in children: a meta-analysis. Pediatrics. 109(4): 678-683, 2002.
• Wullt, M., et al. Lactobacillus plantarum 299v enhances the concentrations of fecal short chain fatty acids in patients with recurrent Clostridum difficile-associated diarrhea. Digestive Diseases and Sciences. 52: 2082-2086, 2007.

What Makes nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Probiotics Unique?
Probiotics are live microorganisms that work to support a healthy gasrointestinal tract. NutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics provides five different strains and five billion active probiotic organisms. nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics promotes healthy digestion in children by providing beneficial bacteria to support a healthy GI tract, while also promoting a healthy immune system.*

Many products claim to provide billions of live probiotic organisms at the time of manufacture but these products are useless unless the organisms are alive when they arrive to you. Many products don’t protect the live organisms from environmental factors which damage their viability. nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics uses LiveBac® technology - a process that helps make our product less susceptible to the effects of these damaging factors and extends the shelf life of our product. Your children will look forward to taking their nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics because of the delicious taste of this fruit-flavored, chewable tablet.*

The four lactobacilli strains (rhamnosus, salivarius, paracasei and plantarum) have been shown to support immune function, healthy digestion, bowel regularity and stomach comfort. Streptococcus salivarius has been shown to support healthy teeth in children.*
nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics delivers immune support by helping to maintain optimal bacterial balance within the digestive tract. Keep your kids healthy with nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics.*


Frequently Asked Questions about nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Probiotics:
How do I know my child needs probiotics?If you are concerned about your child's immune system, digestion, regularity and stomach comfort, you should consider giving this product to your child.*
Can my child get the same benefits from eating yogurt?Yogurt is an excellent source of probiotics, but it’s not for everyone. Some people can’t tolerate dairy, and others simply don’t like the taste. nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics provide the goodness of yogurt without the fat, sugar or calories.*
How many viable micro-organisms are in nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics? There are five billion live cells from five different strains of probiotics at time of manufacture.
How do I store nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics?Refrigeration is not necessary, but will ensure maximum shelf life. Do not expose to excessive heat, humidity or direct sunlight.
Why is LiveBac® important to nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics?LiveBac® technology is a tableting process that helps extend the shelf life of nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics.
How do the bacteria live in nutraMetrix Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics? Is there any food for them inside?The bacteria are in a state of suspended animation. They are dry enough that all biological processes are in a resting state. Once consumed, they rehydrate and biological processes including growth and reproduction resume. So a food source in the tablet is not necessary.
Can nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics be taken with nutraMetrix® Might-a-Mins® Spectrum Isotonix Digestive Enzymes?nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics and nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Isotonix Digestive Enzymes would complement each other when they are both taken as part of your daily nutritional supplement regimen. However, these products should not be taken concurrently. Digestive enzymes should be taken with a meal and Probiotics should be taken on an empty stomach at least two hours after a meal.
Can nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics be taken with other products or children’s supplements? If so, which ones?Yes. nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics can safely be taken with other products, provided one follows the recommended directions and serving size for each product. nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Isotonix OPC-3,^® nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Isotonix Multivitamin and nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Isotonix Digestive Enzymes can all be taken with nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics.
How should I take nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics?Take 1 tablet before the first meal of the day. The tablet can be chewed or allowed to dissolve in the mouth.
Are there any allergens in nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics?nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics contains trace amounts of milk from the fermentation process. There are less than 2 parts per million (ppm) of milk in each serving. This product should not cause an allergic reaction for individuals with a lactose sensitivity, but if you have a milk allergy, we recommend that you consult your physician before taking it.
How long will it take before this product begins to support my child’s digestive needs after taking nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics?Each child is different, depending on their gastrointestinal tract and sensitivity also varies from child to child. It will vary for each individual. In some cases, support will begin within a few days. In others, it may take weeks.*
How might nutraMetrix Might-a-Mins Spectrum Probiotics affect digestion?There are many aspects to good digestion. They include enzymes (which start breaking down foods in the mouth and are found in the intestines), pH conditions, bile from the gall bladder, intestinal microflora and some digestive properties contained in the food that we eat. Diet and supplementing your intestines with probiotics can help support digestion. Well balanced intestinal micro flora will promote healthy digestion.*
Can children under age 2 take Might-A-Mins Spectrum Probiotics?No, this product is recommended for ages 2 and older. There is conflicting research
as to when a child’s own probiotic microflora is determined (1 or 2 years of age).
Taking this type of product before age 2 could influence this natural process. It’s better
for a child to establish his/her own initial gut flora from foods and the general
environment.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

For more information about children's health, please visit kidshealth411.com