Naturally Recovering Autism with Karen Thomas

If you’re walking the autism recovery journey with your child, you’ve probably experienced moments that feel confusing—or even discouraging. Just when things seem to be improving, a behavior resurfaces. A new challenge shows up. Sleep shifts. Digestion changes. Emotions run higher. And the question creeps in: “Are we doing something wrong?” I want to gently reassure you today: Uneven progress is not only common—it’s often a sign that healing is happening. Autism Recovery Is Not Linear One of the biggest misconceptions parents face is the idea that recovery should look like a straight line: Improvement → more improvement → no setbacks. But the body doesn’t heal that way—especially when we’re supporting neurological, immune, and detox pathways all at once. Healing tends to happen in layers and waves. You may see: A leap forward in communication, followed by emotional sensitivity Better sleep, paired with temporary digestive changes Increased awareness before behaviors settle down This doesn’t mean you’re going backward. It means the body is reorganizing and recalibrating. Why Behaviors Can Increase Before They Improve When the nervous system begins to regulate and the body starts clearing stored toxins or inflammation, it can temporarily feel uncomfortable. Children don’t always have the words to express that internal shift—so it can come out as: Increased stimming Emotional outbursts Fatigue or restlessness Sensory sensitivity From a healing perspective, this often signals that the body is waking up, not shutting down. Signs Healing May Be Happening (Even If It Doesn’t Look Like It Yet) Progress isn’t always obvious at first, especially if we’re only watching behaviors. Some early signs of healing include: Changes in sleep patterns (even if temporary) Digestive shifts or improved elimination Increased emotional expression or awareness More eye contact or curiosity Periods of fatigue followed by clarity or calm... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/239

There’s been a lot of conversation around autism—what’s working, what’s not, and how overwhelmed families can feel trying to support their children in a way that actually makes sense. After recently hosting a 3-day autism recovery blueprint event where I walked parents through my 4 stage process for optimum results in autism recovery, I wanted to take a moment to slow things down and reflect on it. Not to introduce something new—but to share what I’ve been seeing consistently inside the Naturally Recovering Autism membership.  (By the way, if you missed the 3-day event you may still be able to catch the replays before the links expire by going to NaturallyRecoveringAutism.com/GO.) Because sometimes, the most powerful thing we can offer isn’t another strategy, but a clear concise roadmap that a parent can follow… Plus, real stories from real families who are walking this path too. Why my program exists When my own son was diagnosed with autism 20 years ago now, I was told to drug him and try behavioral therapies-basically, good luck. They told us we would be managing his symptoms the rest of his life. Fortunately, my background as a Craniosacral Therapist studying the brain and holistic health let me know the brain can and does heal, but I had to research autism more specifically to find out what was going on and what the solutions were so my son could live his best life possible. Naturally Recovering Autism was created with a simple, but often overlooked belief: when the body is supported in a holistic, gentle, and consistent way, it has an incredible ability to move toward balance. This isn’t about quick fixes or one-size-fits-all answers. It’s about education, nervous system support, detox pathways, lifestyle shifts, clearing coinfections and empowering parents to understand why they’re doing what they’re doing, and HOW to do it. And over time, that support adds up. Success Stories  Inside the membership, families often share changes that may feel small at first—but are deeply meaningful:.. Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/238

Autism is changing — not because autistic people are changing, but because our understanding of autism is finally catching up to the lived reality of millions of individuals and families. For decades, autism was described in narrow, stereotypical terms: one “type,” one path, one set of behaviors. The diagnosis was something handed to people, not something that reflected the full complexity of who they were. But today, the conversation is shifting. New research, broader cultural understanding, and the voices of autistic individuals themselves are ushering in a more accurate, more compassionate, and more inclusive view. We’re entering a new era — one where diagnosis, diversity, and identity work together to give us a deeper picture of what autism really means. Diagnosis: From Narrow Labels to Nuanced Understanding Historically, autism diagnosis was based on a narrow checklist of observable behaviors. These frameworks unintentionally left out large groups of people, especially:... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/237

Some people simply want to use X39 for personal wellness. Others feel called to share it. If you are loving what X39 is doing for you and want to share it with friends, family, or your community, LifeWave also offers a simple way to do that. You can become a Brand Partner, which gives you better pricing and an optional path to earn from sharing. What Brand Partner Status Gives You Wholesale pricing on X39 so you save on every sleeve. Your own LifeWave website to share and send people to easily. Volume points and commissions when others order through your link. A flexible business option you can keep small or grow over time. Why Many People Start Here Most people begin as Brand Partners because it is the best way to get started with X39. You get the lowest price, and your account is set up in case you ever want to share. There is no pressure or requirement to build a business. You can simply enjoy the savings and keep it for personal use. How to Become a Brand Partner Click the button below to choose your enrollment kit. Select Core, Advanced, Advanced Plus, or Premium based on what fits your goals. Complete your enrollment and place your first order... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://thrivingwithpatches.com/

How Understanding Autism Biology Can Help Children Thrive Autism Is Not One Thing: Why So Many Children Struggle — And Why It’s Not “Just Autism” For decades, autism has been treated as a one-size-fits-all label. But parents everywhere are starting to notice something that traditional models have missed: Not every autistic child struggles for the same reasons — and many challenges aren’t “autism,” they’re biology. New research confirms this intuitive truth. Scientists are now identifying multiple autism subtypes, shaped by different biological pathways such as immune function, gut health, metabolism, detoxification, and sensory processing. This shift marks a turning point away from the idea that autism equals a fixed set of symptoms — and toward understanding each child’s unique neurological and biological profile. And that’s exactly where powerful breakthroughs happen. Autism vs. the Challenges That Come With It Let’s be clear from the start: Autism itself is not a disease. Autism is a different neurotype — a unique way of communicating, processing the world, and experiencing life. But the challenges many autistic individuals face are not personality traits. They’re not “who the child is.” They are biological stressors layered on top of their neurodivergence — stressors that can be reduced, supported, and improved. These may include: chronic inflammation gut dysbiosis nutrient depletion impaired detox pathways mitochondrial or energy-production issues hormonal imbalance persistent immune activation environmental toxins food sensitivities (gluten, dairy, oxalates, salicylates, phenols, histamines)... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/236

Far-infrared has been used for centuries as a natural, safe method to assist health in multiple ways. Additional methods to assist detoxification are extremely important, especially for children with autism. Far infrared saunas are an excellent resource for this. Please watch this interview with expert Phil Wilson, to discover the many stress-relieving, and additional health benefits of far-infrared heat, including in-home, portable saunas. See studies and testimonials below. A few of the many Studies associated with the benefits and safety of far-infrared: Sauna as a valuable clinical tool for cardiovascular, autoimmune, toxicant- induced and other chronic health problems. Far infrared radiation (FIR): its biological effects and medical applications. Effects of far infrared accupoint stimulation on autonomic activity and quality of life in hemodialysis patients. (This study also shows the reduction of stress and fatigue on the autonomic nervous system.) Below are some video testimonies (Almost all Doctors)  that you might find helpful in recognizing that the Relax Sauna is Unique in its effectiveness because of it being able to generate 95-99% pure far infrared energy, unheard of in the infrared sauna industry. These are just a few of the 650 + video testimonies on the relax sauna... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/235

Leafy greens, beans, and whole grains have long been celebrated as the heart of a clean, nutrient-rich diet. And yes — they can be incredibly nourishing. But there’s a side of the story most people simply never hear: how certain crops accumulate heavy metals, how common pantry staples can harbor mold and mycotoxins, and how all of this can overwhelm the body’s natural detox systems… especially in people with sensitivities or impaired detox pathways. Let’s pull back the curtain on the part that rarely gets talked about. Thallium in Leafy Greens: What Most People Don’t Know Some leafy greens — especially kale, chard, and mustard greens — are what botanists call “hyperaccumulators.” They’re very efficient at pulling minerals from the soil. The problem is that they don’t distinguish between minerals you want and metals you absolutely don’t. If the soil contains thallium or other heavy metals, those greens can soak it up. Thallium exposure has been associated with: Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction DNA strand breakage Neurological symptoms Mood changes This doesn’t mean kale “causes” depression or neurological issues. But for people already dealing with inflammation or impaired detoxification, thallium becomes one more burden the body has to manage. Why Children With Autism Can Be More Sensitive Many parents intuitively notice that their child on the spectrum is more sensitive to environmental triggers than other children — and there’s a reason this can happen. Many autistic individuals have variations in genes involved in detoxification and methylation, including MTHFR. These variations don’t mean anything is “wrong,” but they can slow or alter the way the body processes toxins. That means heavy metals, mold toxins, and chemical residues may: Build up more quickly Hit harder Stay in the system longer Interfere more with neurological and immune function For a child already dealing with sensory processing, gut challenges, or nervous system overload, these exposures can compound the stress on the body, sometimes showing up as sleep issues, irritability, mood changes, or behavioral shifts... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/234

Researchers from Virginia Tech have discovered that ultra-processed meats and beverages are the worst for brain health. Individuals who consumed one or more extra servings of either of these foods showed a significantly increased risk of developing cognitive impairments, including those associated with forms of dementia such as Alzheimer’s Disease. A recent article from Children’s Health Defense shared new research ranking which junk foods are most harmful to the brain — and it’s not just about kids’ waistlines or sugar highs. It’s about how what we eat can shape how we think, learn, and even feel. Let’s dig into what this new research is saying, and more importantly, what it means for our families. How Junk Food Impacts the Brain These studies found that foods loaded with refined sugar, unhealthy fats, and artificial ingredients don’t just harm the body — they change how the brain functions. Think of it like this: the brain runs on clear signals, kind of like a radio station. When it’s getting clean fuel — whole foods, real nutrients — that signal is clear. But when it’s constantly fed ultra-processed foods, it’s like turning up the static. The brain starts to lose focus, memory gets fuzzy, and mood and motivation can shift. Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) are now known to include obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, anxiety, depression, and an increase in all-cause mortality. In fact, according to a study published in Diabetes Care, a journal of the American Diabetes Association, up to 220,000 young Americans under age 20 are likely to have Type 2 diabetes by 2060 — a 673% increase from 2017 levels. One of the studies found that people who ate a lot of processed meats, fried snacks, and sugary drinks had measurable changes in the areas of the brain that control memory and emotion. Another study showed that even short-term diets high in sugar and fat can rewire how the brain’s “reward center” works — making people crave those same foods even more. A study of nearly 124,000 people found that drinking just one daily serving of artificially sweetened drinks increased the risk of a liver disease known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease or metabolic dysfunction. That means the more we eat these foods, the more our brains want them, creating a loop that’s hard to break. Why Kids Are Especially Affected Recent research has shed light on a startling concern—more than 300 chemicals have been detected in babies’ cord blood and placenta at birth. This discovery highlights the fact that exposure to harmful chemicals begins much earlier than we previously thought. From conception through pregnancy, toxins can pass from the mother to the fetus, raising concerns about their potential long-term effects on child development and health. Children’s brains are still developing, which makes them much more sensitive to these kinds of foods. When a growing brain is constantly exposed to sugary, processed foods, it can interfere with how nerve connections form. Some of the research cited by Children’s Health Defense found that kids and teens who eat a lot of junk food have more trouble with memory and learning, and can experience more mood swings or attention issues. Part of that is because junk foods crowd out the nutrients that developing brains need — like omega-3s, zinc, and iron. And part of it is chemical: those processed ingredients can actually change the way the brain’s reward systems respond, which makes healthy foods less appealing over time... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/233

Many parents are willing to do anything to help their child with autism. When traditional therapies don’t bring the progress they hope for, it’s easy to feel desperate—and to keep searching for the next answer. That’s exactly where one devoted mom found herself. After years of struggle, she tried nearly everything—including expensive stem cell injections overseas. She and her husband even took out second mortgages to afford treatments that promised breakthroughs. But despite their best efforts, the results were temporary. Her son still struggled to connect, focus, or express how he felt. The spark she knew was inside him hadn’t yet come alive. Then she found the Naturally Recovering Autism Membership Program, and everything changed.  From Desperation to Direction Instead of chasing one treatment after another, she finally had a clear, step-by-step roadmap—a natural, whole-body approach that addressed the real root causes behind her son’s symptoms. Through the membership program, she learned how to: Support her son’s gut health to reduce inflammation and improve focus Use safe, natural detoxification methods to clear underlying toxins that affect the brain Restore nutrient balance to strengthen communication between the brain and body And most importantly, how to bring calm, connection, and joy back into their daily lives Within months, she began seeing real, lasting progress: Her son started making eye contact, engaging with others, and showing affection—saying “I love you” for the very first time. Why “Don’t Underestimate a Child with Autism” This mom’s story is a reminder that every child—no matter where they begin—is capable of so much more than we’re often led to believe. When the body is supported naturally and the right healing steps are followed in order, the changes can be remarkable. These are not “miracles.” They’re the result of understanding how the body and brain are connected—and how to restore balance so healing can happen naturally... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/232

Every parent of a child with autism knows the moments of doubt, frustration, and heartache. For one devoted mom, the journey began with silence—days and months where her son barely spoke, struggled to connect, and seemed trapped in his own world. Like many families, she searched tirelessly for answers, trying therapies and interventions that promised breakthroughs. But true, lasting progress remained out of reach—until she discovered the Naturally Recovering Autism Roadmap. A Roadmap to Real Recovery The Naturally Recovering Autism program gave her a clear, step-by-step plan designed to support her son’s body and brain in a holistic way. Instead of chasing quick fixes, she learned how to: Support gut health and reduce inflammation  Rebuild nutrient balance to fuel focus and communication Promote safe, natural detoxification Create predictable, supportive routines that encourage learning and connection Within months, she began noticing remarkable changes: small gestures became words, words became sentences, and eventually, the phrase every parent dreams of hearing: “I love you.” Hope, Healing, and Possibility This story is a powerful reminder that every child with autism has potential beyond what we often imagine. With the right guidance, patience, and tools, progress is not only possible—it can be transformative. The Naturally Recovering Autism Roadmap gave this family the framework to see real, lasting results—proving that recovery doesn’t always come from the most expensive or dramatic interventions, but from consistent, thoughtful support that addresses root causes... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/231

California Passes Law Allowing State to Set Its Own Vaccine Guidance In a landmark move, California has passed a new law (AB 144, signed by Governor Gavin Newsom on September 17, 2025) that gives the state authority to establish its own vaccine schedules and related policies — rather than being bound by federal guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).  Here’s a breakdown of what the law does, why it was enacted, and how it fits into a broader trend among U.S. states. Key Provisions of the Law Some of the main changes under AB 144: It establishes a baseline for vaccine coverage based on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommendations as of January 1, 2025. It authorizes the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) to modify or supplement those baseline recommendations, using guidance from independent medical organizations (like the American Academy of Pediatrics, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, etc.). It requires that state-regulated insurance plans (including Medi-Cal) cover vaccines that the state health department endorses under its guidance — meaning no copays for many Californians under those plans for state-recommended vaccines. It gives CA authority to act more independently of federal advisory bodies when those are perceived by state leadership to be compromised or less trustworthy. Why This Law Was Enacted Several reasons motivated the push for this law: Concerns over federal changes: The law reflects growing concern in California (and some other states) that recent shifts at the federal level — including reconstitution of advisory panels, changes in vaccine eligibility criteria, and what state officials view as politicization of public health — have undermined trust in the CDC’s recommendations... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/230

Instead of just focusing on the controversy or risks of misdiagnosis, you can pivot toward the benefits of finally having clarity through a late diagnosis, and then be empowered with actionable, natural strategies that align with what we do at Naturally Recovering Autism. The Benefits of a Late Autism Diagnosis Clarity & Self-Understanding Many people spend years confused about why social situations, sensory environments, or certain tasks feel harder for them than for others. A diagnosis provides a framework — “Oh, that’s why.”   This self-knowledge can reduce self-blame, shame, and anxiety. 2. Access to Resources & Support Even later in life, a diagnosis can open doors to support groups, therapies, accommodations in work or school, and tools for managing sensory overload or executive function. Parents of children diagnosed later can finally advocate more effectively for educational resources.   3. Direction for Healing & Growth Instead of trying random approaches, families (or adults themselves) can pursue strategies that actually match the needs of an autistic brain and body.   You can move from “what’s wrong with me?” to “here’s how my brain works, and here’s what helps.” Natural & Supportive Approaches for Autism  Once someone receives a diagnosis — whether at 5, 15, or 55 — the question becomes: What can I do now? Here are some natural interventions: Nutritional & Gut Health Support The gut-brain connection is well-documented. Late-diagnosed individuals may realize their digestive issues, food sensitivities, or chronic inflammation have been compounding their challenges. Approaches: gluten/dairy-free diets, probiotics, gut-healing protocols, anti-inflammatory nutrition. Get my free food guide at autismcheatsheet.com... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/229

Pesticide used on oats known to harm development, fetal growth and harming reproductive health later in life. Asheville, N.C. – Aug. 25, 2025 – A new investigation by Moms Across America has found disturbing levels of a banned pesticide, chlormequat, in some of the most popular children’s cereals sold in the United States. Given this disturbing finding, Moms Across America is calling on the administration to revise the recently leaked draft of MAHA Commission strategy report, which falls short in calling for increased policy enforcement to reduce exposure of harmful pesticides to our children and American families. The findings raise serious concerns about food safety, particularly for children, and call into question the effectiveness of regulatory oversight by the Food and Drug Administration. Chlormequat, which has been linked to infertility, cancer, and developmental harm, was detected in 11 out of 14 cereal samples tested. The highest level—134.16 parts per billion—was found in General Mills’ Honey Nut Cheerios. It is not permitted for use on food crops in the U.S., and it was illegal for any imported grains to contain detectable levels of it until 2018. Key findings include... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/228

I’m excited to share a non-invasive, easy-to-use technology that is showing tremendous promise for children with autism, as well as many other health conditions. This could really help your child now. This wearable patch is a form of light therapy that activates our own dormant stem cells in the body. Stem cells are how our bodies heal.  This one-of-a-kind breakthrough patch technology uses the body’s own light to activate its own stem cells, promoting better cellular health-benefits that can help children thrive by: supporting natural healing,  resetting genes,  Improving function of the immune system,  balancing inflammation, and the immune response. The X39 patch is FDA compliant as a general wellness product, and backed by over 80 double-blind studies...   Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/225

Dr. Isaac Eliaz brief biography: Dr. Eliaz has been a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine since the early 1980’s, with a specific focus on immune health, detoxification and mind-body medicine. He also has experience creating clinical protocols that have shown success in addressing the symptoms of autism and those on the autism spectrum have. He is a respected clinician, researcher, author and educator, he has been teaching continuing education to health care providers for over 25 years. As part of his commitment to the advancement of integrative medicine, Dr. Eliaz is directly involved in ongoing research and has published a number of peer reviewed studies demonstrating the effectiveness of specific integrative therapies for immune enhancement, heavy metal toxicity and cancer prevention and treatment… Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/227

This guide will cover how to get a vaccine exemption in each of the 50 United States. Parents who choose vaccination exemption for their children do so because they believe that children get too many shots altogether, and they have valid concerns about serious side effects, such as autism. Ultimately, it is a parent’s choice to make the right decision for their child’s individual needs.  Types of Exemptions:  Medical Exemptions: These are granted when a child has a medical contraindication to a vaccine, such as allergies to vaccine components or a history of adverse reactions.  Non-medical Exemptions: These include:  Religious Exemptions: Allowing exemptions based on religious beliefs that prohibit vaccination.  Philosophical or Personal Belief Exemptions: Allowing exemptions based on personal or moral convictions against vaccination.  State Variations:  Medical Exemptions: All states and the District of Columbia allow medical exemptions for children unable to receive vaccines due to medical reasons. Typically, a medical exemption must be written by an MD or doctor of osteopathy (DO).  Religious Exemptions: This exemption is based on the First Amendment, the right to freely hold and exercise religious beliefs. Most states allow religious exemptions, with only a few (like California, New York, and West Virginia) not allowing any non-medical exemptions... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/226

Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, is a board-certified osteopathic medical doctor from Cleveland, Ohio. Dr. Tenpenny is an internationally known expert on the problems associated with vaccines. Her book, Saying No To Vaccines”  is a guide written to help adults and parents refute the most common reasons to vaccinate. Please listen to this very informative interview. As the “Voice of Reason about Alternative medicine”, Dr. Tenpenny is an outspoken advocate for free choice in healthcare, including the right to refuse vaccination. She has done hundreds of radio, TV and print interviews, and she is a returning speaker to the Cal Jam... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/224

Mitochondria give cells over 90% of their energy. Without proper energy cells cannot carry out their functions. Mitochondrial Dysfunction vs Mitochondrial Disease Mitochondrial dysfunction simply means that the mitochondria are not working correctly. Mitochondrial disease is the term used when the primary cause of mitochondrial dysfunction resides in the mitochondria. Mitochondrial disease is generally genetic. It can be inherited from either or both parents. A special type of mitochondrial disease is caused by mutations on the mitochondrial DNA, and is inherited only from the mother. When the primary cause of mitochondrial dysfunction resides outside the mitochondria, mitochondrial dysfunction is called “secondary” (to something else). Symptoms of Mitochondrial Dysfunction Cellular energy is necessary for the function of all cells, but is particularly critical for nerve and muscle. Both nerve and muscle are important in GI function, thus cyclic vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, poor GI mobility, and other digestive disorders are common. Additional potential complications of mitochondrial dysfunction include chronic fatigue, neuropathic pain, depression, autistic regression, seizures, hypoglycemia, visual and hearing difficulty, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, intellectual disability, and dysautonomia. Mitochondrial Triggers Mitochondrial dysfunction can be genetic, but even then, disease is often triggered by the environment. Viral infections are among the most common triggers of mitochondrial dysfunction. Additional potential triggers are other infections (e.g. lyme bacteria), vaccinations, toxins, anesthesia, and any other significant stressor. In order situations, mitochondrial dysfunction can be acquired. In fact, stroke and heart attack involve mitochondrial dysfunction, whereas cells are receiving insufficient oxygen for required energy metabolism. Many environmental toxins can poison mitochondria as well, including some pesticides... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/223

Podcast Interview on Natural Allergy Elimination with Paula Vetter Your child may have obvious allergies to certain pollen’s or foods, but there are many other unknown possibilities, as well. Natural allergy elimination can desensitize the body from all kinds of issues that are affecting his immune system, his brain, and much more. These compounds are in foods and chemicals found in everyday life. By getting rid of allergies the immune system is freed up to work where it is needed. During a session for natural allergy elimination the practitioner is able to detect which meridians pathways of the body are being affected such as anatomy, physiology, brain, and circulatory systems. Acupressure points are stimulated which opens a gateway to the immune system, and tells it to recognize the product as normal, a correct way to respond. Paula Vetter RN, MSN, FNP-C is a board certified Holistic Family Nurse Practitioner, Certified Herbalist, Reiki Master/Teacher, Certified EFT Practitioner, Certified CIRS Practitioner and Personal Wellness Coach...   Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/222

While intermittent fasting may have beneficial effects on various autoimmune diseases, fasting is not right for everyone. Intermittent fasting can be detrimental for people with autoimmune issues because it can potentially exacerbate their condition by putting additional stress on the immune system, which is already dysregulated in autoimmune diseases, potentially leading to increased inflammation and flare-ups due to the body’s tendency to attack its own tissues during fasting periods.  Why intermittent fasting may not be right for someone with autism: Immune system disruption: Fasting can cause fluctuations in immune cell activity, potentially leading to an overactive immune response in individuals with autoimmune diseases where the body is already attacking its own tissues. PANS is an autoimmune attack on the brain and it is very common in children with autism. You will see a sudden onset of OCD, clinginess, and fearfulness. Increased inflammation: While some research suggests intermittent fasting might reduce inflammation in healthy individuals, in autoimmune conditions, it could trigger increased inflammatory markers due to the body’s altered immune response.  Stress on the body: The stress of fasting can further exacerbate autoimmune symptoms. If your immune system is fragile and you’re constantly having flare-ups, you might want to avoid fasting until your body is stronger. What to do instead: Focus on a balanced, healthy diet with controlled portion sizes, regular exercise, and mindful eating habits to achieve similar health benefits, prioritizing nutrient-dense foods and limiting processed options; essentially, managing your overall calorie intake without strict fasting windows. Ketogenic Diets are popular for this reason. A ketogenic diet primarily consists of high-fats, moderate-proteins, and very-low-carbohydrates. The dietary macronutrients are divided into approximately 55% to 60% fat, 30% to 35% protein and 5% to 10%carbohydrates. In our episode Healthy Carbs, Candida Control, and What You Can Do To Soothe Autism Symptoms [Podcast Episode #210] we discussed how low-carb diets can be potentially sleep disruptive and anxiety provoking if candida overgrowth is still strong and candida is eating up all of the glucose our brain needs. This is very common in sleep disorders.  I discuss this in detail in my podcast episode # 133, How To Improve Sleep Tied To Candida Induced Hypoglycemia. ... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/221