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, originally developed 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 frequently not medically investigated, even in non-speaking individuals or those with significant communication challenges.

The biomedical approach, rooted in integrative and functional medicine, 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 investigates how these factors may interact and contribute to the challenges associated with autism. Rather than attributing every symptom to the diagnosis, it seeks to uncover and address 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 autism is a lifelong neurodevelopmental condition, significant improvement in symptoms such as language delays, behavioural challenges, and social engagement is often observed. In some cases, children have made such substantial progress that they no longer meet the diagnostic criteria for autism. 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.