CONCISE NATUROPATHIC
HEALTHCARE Third Edition
Symptom masking is very common among females with ADHD and / or ASD, as they tend to have a better understanding than males of social etiquette, so may be more able to adapt their behaviour to conform to its norms. Examples of this from ASD research include mimicking the behaviour of those around them, learning to hold eye contact( which they might otherwise avoid), as well as developing adaptive strategies to help with focus and attention. The constant need for a social façade, and the associated cognitive effort, can take its toll, so females are much more likely than males to experience chronic high stress, anxiety and fatigue.( 10,12)
Common issues and deficiencies
The interplay between genetic and environmental factors in ADHD and ASD can affect several processes within the body, including the formation of glutathione within the methylation cycle.( 3,6,18) Moreover, it is thought that one potential mechanism contributing to the psychiatric symptoms of ADHD is hereditary metabolic dysfunction, which restricts the availability of several important cofactors, thereby diminishing metabolic activity.( 19) Increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction may also be common contributors to these conditions.( 18,20,21)
Gastrointestinal( GIT) inflammation and problems, such as constipation, diarrhoea, and abdominal pain are common in ASD, with functional GIT disorders( irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, and dyspepsia) also prevalent in those with ADHD, especially in females. These conditions may be due to food sensitivities, altered gut microbiome, and / or decreased nutritional intake.( 18,22)
In Australia, diagnosis of ADHD and ASD should be done by a diagnostic clinician who understands the screening tools and has experience or training in neurodevelopmental and behavioural conditions, such as psychiatrists or clinical psychologists. These appointments can be complex, involving multiple assessments with inputs from different aspects of the person’ s life,( 4,23,24) so many adults may choose not to pursue a formal diagnosis.
Medical management of ADHD and ASD
Medical management of adult ADHD includes educational and behavioural treatments and, if indicated, psychostimulant medications to help improve attention and reduce impulsiveness and hyperactivity.( 6) However, the side-effects associated with these medications can be intolerable and individuals may look for ways in which they can create everyday coping strategies before being medicated.( 4,25) Behavioural strategies are first-line interventions for ASD.( 4)
Holistic management of ADHD and ASD
Many women present to complementary health practitioners for assistance with any combination of symptoms outlined above. Based on this symptom picture, they may be treated for various conditions; however, it is important to consider if ADHD and / or ASD may be present, particularly if symptoms have been present for the last 10-20 years or can be traced back to childhood.( 26) In these cases referral for a diagnosis via a GP should be discussed. If neurodivergent individuals are looking for ways to manage their symptoms without medication, there are several nutrients and herbal medicines that could assist.
Nutritional support for the neurodiverse
The nutritional goals in the management of ADHD and ASD may include addressing nutrient deficiencies, improving the diet and helping to support the systems of the body, such as the nervous and digestive systems. Major nutrient deficiencies that would benefit from screening include vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and iron,( 7) as well as vitamins
CONCISE NATUROPATHIC
HEALTHCARE Third Edition
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