Conventionally, symptoms of autism, whether core traits or those associated with co-occurring conditions, are often attributed to autism itself and managed through interventions such as applied behavioral analysis (ABA), speech and language therapy (SLP), occupational therapy (OT), educational and personal support, institutional care, and prescription medications. While medications may address issues like anxiety and depression, they often include antipsychotics, typically used for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia, to manage symptoms like aggression and self-injury. Because autism is conventionally viewed as a psychiatric condition, outward behaviours are often not medically investigated, even in non-speaking individuals or those with significant communication challenges.

The biomedical approach is an integrative and functional approach that recognizes autism as a complex condition influenced by genetic, nutritional, biochemical, environmental, and immunological factors. Supported by over two decades of scientific research, this approach highlights how these factors interact in contributing to autism. Before attributing symptoms solely to autism, it considers and investigates underlying physiological imbalances that may play a role. For example, self-injury may indicate underlying inflammation, digestive dysfunction, or pain rather than being an inherent feature of autism. 

While there is currently no definitive cure for autism, significant improvements in both core symptoms and co-occurring conditions are often observed. In some cases, full recovery has been reported. However, our understanding of autism is still incomplete, and a subset of individuals with complex autism may not experience significant improvements in core symptoms with the biomedical approach alone. In these cases, advanced genomics and precision medicine tools offer additional hope. Still, early detection and intervention, particularly in cases involving neuroinflammation, provide the greatest opportunity to prevent prolonged or potentially irreversible changes to brain structures and function.

Common comorbid imbalances addressed in the biomedical approach include:

• Nutritional deficiencies or imbalances
• Gastrointestinal issues (e.g. dysbiosis, SIBO, maldigestion, food allergies or sensitivities)
• Chronic infections and biofilms
• Mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress
• Immune system dysregulation
• Neuroinflammation and microglial activation
• Neurotransmitter imbalances
• Environmental toxicity and impaired detoxification

At Thrive Integrative Medicine, we are committed to bridging science and practice to provide personalized care tailored to the unique needs of individuals with autism. Far too often, children and families are left without answers and told that symptoms are “just autism” without further investigations. Every child deserves more than a label; they deserve to be fully seen with dignity and to receive care that allows them to reach their full potential. At Thrive, we focus on a comprehensive approach to improve health outcomes and enhance the quality of life for individuals with autism and their families.