Naturally Recovering Autism with Karen Thomas

Wearable Phototherapy Patch For Autism: Stem Cell Activation Explained [Podcast Episode 225]

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...

 

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/225

Interview with Isaac Eliaz, M.D., M.S., L.Ac. on Heavy Metal Detoxification [Podcast Episode #227]

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…

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/227

How to Get a Vaccine Exemption for Your Child: A State By State Guide for Parents [Podcast Episode #226]

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...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/226

Podcast Interview with Dr. Sherri Tenpenny on Vaccinations [Podcast Episode #224]

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...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/224

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Autism [Podcast Episode #223]

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...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/223

Natural Allergy Desensitization [Podcast Episode #222]

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...

 

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/222

 

Fasting Risks For Autism and What To Do Instead [Podcast Episode #221]

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. ...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/221

Elopement & Autism: Ensure Your Child’s Safety Now! [Podcast Episode #220]

What Is Elopement in Autism?

Elopement—also known as wandering—is a common behavior among children with autism. It refers to when a child leaves a safe environment without permission, often placing themselves in potentially dangerous situations. According to the National Autism Association, 49% of autistic children have attempted to elope, and the behavior typically peaks between ages 4 and 7.

Understanding the causes of elopement is the first step toward reducing its frequency and improving safety.

Top Causes of Elopement in Autistic Children

1. Sensory Overload or Sensory Seeking

Many children with autism experience sensory processing differences. They may find certain environments too loud, bright, or overwhelming, leading them to flee. Others may seek out sensory-rich experiences—like spinning fans, running water, or flashing lights—and wander off in pursuit of them.

2. Communication Difficulties

Children with limited or nonverbal communication skills may elope as a way to express a need or emotion. Elopement becomes a nonverbal message, saying “I’m upset,” “I need a break,” or “I don’t understand.”

3. Escaping Demands or Transitions

Some children elope to avoid non-preferred activities, such as schoolwork, chores, or social interaction. Elopement can function as a behavioral response to challenging expectations or transitions.

4. Anxiety and Fight-or-Flight Responses

Autistic children often experience anxiety in social or unfamiliar settings. For some, running away is a natural response to overwhelming fear, acting as a way to self-soothe or find safety.

5. Impulsivity and Poor Executive Function

Children on the autism spectrum may also struggle with impulse control and planning. In some cases, they may run impulsively without a clear goal or without recognizing potential dangers.

6. Goal-Directed Wandering

Not all elopement is escape behavior. Sometimes children are simply trying to reach a desired location—like a favorite playground, a relative’s house, or even a store they remember.

7. One of the most common, yet unknown, triggers for elopement is phenol sensitivity. Elopement is from many things but the sensory overload and impulsivity also come from phenols known to contribute to eloping. 

Phenols are the natural colorings in foods such as in fruits and vegetables. Phenols are also in the artificial colorings that are in yogurt, candy, and popsicles, etc. Used industrially, they help form and are contained in plastics. They can be an allergen, whether from food or plastic products. People with poor methylation are often phenol sensitive. It is very common for children on the autism spectrum to be allergic to phenols. This is often due to an ill digestive tract.

Normally the body could properly utilize and eliminate phenols. Phenols and salicylates are in most foods. Candida/yeast overgrowth and leaky gut contribute to phenol sensitivity. Leaky gut will allow these chemicals to enter the bloodstream in high 

concentrations. This alarms the body and triggers an immune response which creates an allergy to these chemicals...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/220

Understanding Pica in Children with Autism: Causes, Connections, and What to Watch For [Podcast Episode #219]

Pica in children with autism, touching on its link to PANS, nutritional deficiencies, emotional factors, and gut health.

Pica is a complex and often misunderstood condition that can be particularly concerning when observed in children with autism. It involves the persistent eating of non-food items such as dirt, paper, chalk, hair, or even small objects like coins or toys. While pica can occur in children of all backgrounds, it is significantly more common in individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Understanding the why behind this behavior is crucial for parents, caregivers, and professionals who want to provide appropriate support.

What Is Pica?

Pica is defined by the DSM-5 as the repeated ingestion of non-nutritive substances over a period of at least one month, and at an age where this behavior is developmentally inappropriate. In children with autism, pica can often persist beyond toddler years and may require clinical attention due to the risks involved, including choking, intestinal blockages, poisoning, and exposure to harmful bacteria.

Why Is Pica More Common in Children with Autism?

There are multiple factors that can contribute to pica behaviors in children with autism, including sensory processing differences, emotional regulation difficulties, nutritional deficiencies, and underlying medical conditions. Here are some key contributors:

1. 

Nutritional and Mineral Deficiencies

One of the most common underlying causes of pica is a deficiency in essential nutrients and minerals. When the body lacks certain elements, it may instinctively seek out non-food items that contain trace amounts of what it’s missing. In children with autism, this is especially relevant due to dietary restrictions, picky eating, or poor absorption caused by gut health issues.

Common deficiencies linked to pica include:

• Iron – Low iron levels (anemia) have a strong correlation with pica. Increasing heem foods which are rich in iron are suggested. Thai is much better than supplementing with iron since iron supplements can aggravate virus activity. Food-based supplements are a much safer way to increase iron naturally.  
• Zinc – Important for taste, smell, and immune function. 
• Magnesium – Needed for neurological and muscular function. 
• Calcium – Can influence cravings for chalk or dirt. 
• Vitamin D and B12 – Deficiencies can affect mood, energy, and neurological health. 

Children with autism may be more susceptible to these deficiencies due to selective eating, inflammation, or gut dysbiosis.

2. 

Emotional and Sensory Reasons

Pica can also be a self-soothing or sensory-seeking behavior. Children with autism may have heightened or lowered sensory sensitivities and may find certain textures, smells, or even the act of chewing or swallowing non-food items calming or stimulating.

Other emotional and psychological factors that may drive pica include:

• Stress or anxiety – Non-food chewing may become a coping mechanism. 
• Communication challenges – Inability to express discomfort or emotional needs might manifest as pica. 
• Obsessive-compulsive tendencies – Some children may develop ritualistic eating of non-foods. 

Providing alternative sensory activities and emotional regulation tools can help reduce the compulsion.

3. 

Pica as a Symptom of PANS (Pediatric Acute-onset Neuropsychiatric Syndrome)

PANS is a neuroimmune condition characterized by the sudden onset of obsessive-compulsive symptoms, eating restrictions, tics, or emotional disturbances following infection or inflammation. Interestingly, pica has been observed in children experiencing flare-ups of PANS, particularly when inflammation in the brain affects areas related to impulse control and appetite.

In these cases, pica may appear suddenly and be accompanied by other neuropsychiatric symptoms. If this is suspected, seeking a qualified PANS/PANDAS specialist is critical, as treatment often involves addressing underlying infections and modulating the immune response...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/219

Is Fluoride Really Safe? The Truth About Fluoride Toxicity [Podcast Episode #218]

Fluoride has long been promoted as a critical ingredient in the fight against tooth decay. It’s added to public water supplies, found in most commercial toothpastes, and endorsed by many dental organizations. But growing research raises valid concerns about fluoride toxicity—and many health-conscious individuals are choosing to go fluoride-free.

In this episode, we’ll break down what the science really says about fluoride, why some experts are calling for caution, and the potential health benefits of switching to fluoride-free products and water.

What Is Fluoride, and Why Is It Used?

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral known for strengthening enamel and helping prevent cavities. Since the mid-20th century, it’s been added to drinking water and oral care products as a public health measure to reduce tooth decay.

But here’s the thing: more fluoride isn’t always better—and studies suggest that long-term exposure can come with unintended health risks.

Most of us grew up being told how important and beneficial fluoride is.We were told that it was important for strong teeth. Because of this, it is much harder for most people to accept its downfall.

There are over 25 human studies and 100 animal studies connecting fluoride to brain damage and lowered IQ. Several peer-reviewed studies have shown fluoridation to weaken bones. Dental fluorosis is when tooth enamel becomes discolored and is due to fluoride disrupting the enamel during development. However, dentists will often tell us it’s because of poor hygiene.

Please recognize that the dangers of fluoride are real. What they did not tell us is that fluoride damages a part of the brain called the hippocampus, which has no blood-brain barrier to protect it. The hippocampus is responsible for emotions, behavior, learning, memory, and spatial awareness. It is the primary part of the brain affected by those with Alzheimer’s. 

We absorb fluoride from dental treatments, brushing or rinsing with fluoride, and drinking water with added fluoride. When aluminum and fluoride are combined, as in fluoridated water in an aluminum pan or using fluoride toothpaste from an aluminum container, the toxic effects are heightened.

Scientific Concerns About Fluoride Toxicity

Neurotoxicity and Cognitive Development

 
There are two factors of fluoride toxicity that are of greatest concern.The first is genetic damage. Damage to DNA repair enzymes affects the reproductive cells and is inherited by our children...

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https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/218