Integrative Approaches to Caring for Children with Autism

Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care
Nadav Klein, Kathi J Kemper

Abstract

Parents commonly integrate complementary and alternative medical (CAM) treatments for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) with conventional care. The aims of this article are to (1) describe the most commonly used treatments, (2) assess their efficacy and safety, and (3) organize the information in practical format for practitioners. We organized treatment modalities into four categories: recommended, monitored, tolerated, and therapies that should be avoided. These four categories are based on a two by two table weighing a therapy׳s effectiveness and safety. To meet the threshold for "recommended," its effectiveness needed to be supported by two or more randomized, controlled trials. In addition to promoting an overall healthy lifestyle via nutrition, exercise, sleep, stress management, social support, and avoiding neurotoxins (healthy habits in a healthy habitat), the most promising therapies recommend are applied behavior analysis, parent-implemented training, melatonin supplements to improve sleep, supplements to correct deficiencies, and music therapy. Medications and restrictive diets may be helpful for some children, but use should be monitored given the risk of side effects. Most complementary therapies are safe, so they can...Continue Reading

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Citations

Feb 13, 2016·Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care·Craig D Boreman
Jan 13, 2016·Current Problems in Pediatric and Adolescent Health Care·Kathi J Kemper
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Oct 30, 2019·Paediatrics & Child Health·Angie IpJessica A Brian
Aug 7, 2021·Brain Sciences·Justyna Podgórska-Bednarz, Lidia Perenc
Oct 28, 2021·Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition·Katarzyna TarnowskaRenata Winkler
Jan 28, 2021·Pediatrics·Samantha DeMarshJennifer A Belsky

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