Comprehensive Guide to Managing Autism - 2

Immune 101

There are three major classes of Immune Cell types: granulocytes, monocytes, and lymphocytes. Lymphocytes are divided into three subgroups: B-Cells, T-cells, and Natural Killer Cells. T-cells are divided into CD4, helper cells, CD8, suppressor cells, and cytotoxic, CD8, Killer T-cells. That is, they show the Cluster Determinant (CD) glycoproteins on their surface. During the first two years of life a delicate one-to-one ratio between CD4 (helper) and CD8 (suppressor) cells forms.  CD4/CD8 ratios that do not equal 1:1 are indicative of abnormal immune systems. All these produce cytokines, chemical messengers that tell the other cells what to do. Cytokines, also called growth factors, are the common language of the immune, hormonal, and nervous systems regulating the growth and development of cells and tissues. Scientists state that: “Stimulation of the developing immune system (by early childhood diseases—WSL) can prevent auto-immunity” with clinical evidence proving that immune stimulation prevents auto-immune disease by up-regulating growth factors that bring the body back into balance with normal cell-to-cell communication. 

Growth factors are biologically active, biochemically well-characterized, small proteins (cytokines) that regulate cell growth, repair, renewal, and cell death throughout the body, including the developing nervous and immune systems. Growth factors need not enter cells to exert their effects upon DNA and cellular activities because they use specific cell receptors that carry their signals into the genes. Specific growth factors, such as platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF_B) play critical roles early in the four-stage, cell cycle, during what is called G1 phase. These growth factors determine the cell’s fate by regulating what genes are turned on or off. If a gene is “turned on”, it will be read and its message translated into protein. If a gene is “turned off”, its message will remain dormant. Many viruses compete for the same DNA gene regulatory (transcription) sites as growth factors do since viruses need to overcome the growth factor’s control of the cell’s fate so that the virus can multiply and infect more cells. Growth factors contribute to healthy communication between the protective systems in the body, such as the nervous, immune, and hormonal systems. If growth factors do not work appropriately, there is aberrant cell-to-cell communication throughout the body, and a type of chaos ensues—Dr. Barbara Brewitt, Chief Science Officer, Biomed Comm, Inc. 

The CD4+, lymphocyte helper-cell activities are divided into Th1 (Cell-mediated immunity), and Th2 (humoral immunity). Th1 is the first-line of defense primarily against viral, fungi, and protozoa, while Th2 helps the B-cells to produce antibodies. The T-cells are separated into these two classes depending upon the specific cytokines the cells secrete in response to antigenic stimulation. Th1 cells primarily produce interferon (IFN) and interleukin-2 (IL-2), whereas Th2 cells produce IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-13. The two helper T-cell classes also differ by the type of immune response they produce. While Th1 cells tend to generate responses against intracellular parasites such as bacteria and viruses, Th2 cells produce immune responses against helminths and other extracellular parasites. Interestingly, the cytokines produced by each Th subset tends to both stimulate production of that subset, and inhibit development of the other subset. Th1 and Th2 represent two, separate, counterbalancing functions of the immune system, and problems occur when they are out of balance. 

After a strong Th1 response to infection gets on top of the search-out-and-kill activity, Interleukin 4 and 10 promotes a change of a class of antibody (IgG1) produced by memory cells, and suppresses the activity of the killer cells and starts to shut down the Th1 immune response. The production of memory cells is dependent on this strong Th1 immune response. For example: the immunological action taken against a primary attack of measles is primarily Th1, with a later back-up by a Th2 antibody that is dependent on the initial Th1 response, and then a dampening down of the Th1 system by the Th2 antibody. However, “These alterations support the hypothesis that the immunologic alterations induced by immunization do activate type-2 cell responses leading to improved antibody production, while suppressing type-1, T-cell responses leading to reduced lymphoproliferation.” (JID 1996, Vol 173, pg 1324-1325) Do you understand the implications of this? There are plenty of antibodies at the expense of the ability to “search-and-destroy”—to fight other infections. This is the key—the difference between natural Th1, and vaccine induced Th2 immunity—and yet, some fail to show antibodies even when vaccinated and boosted and revaccinated! Could that be because they had no sufficient Th1 response?  Possibly, but magnesium deficiency has been shown to decrease antibody production, and lymphocytes, the body’s defense against invaders, are inhibited by magnesium deficiency, and most of these children are deficient in magnesium. 

To avoid rejection of the fetus, a Mother’s immune system shifts quickly to Th2, and the baby is born with this skew to Th2. After the baby is born, the healthy mother’s immune system changes back to normal Th1 dominance very quickly, and breast milk quickly starts the process of changing the baby’s balance towards Th1 dominance. The vaccinated Mother’s immune function is likely to stay Th2 predominant, robbing her of her natural immunity to infections and allergies, and she passes this skewed system to her baby! The poor, bottle-fed child gets no help at all to restore Th1.  

It’s most revealing to learn that the same insult given to those of different genetic makeup will cause some to have a Th1 response, whereas others will have a Th2 response! The ratio of these two is determined by the balance of adrenal steroids, notably cortisol and DHEA. Since cortisol is an antagonist of DHEA, stress-induced cortisol production shifts the number of CD4+ lymphocytes to predominantly Th2 expression. Cortisol also impairs liver detoxification, allowing buildup of environmental and physiological toxins. "Thus, even a potentially Th1-inducing virus may fail to induce Th1 during a time of stress"-Lancet, 1997, Volume 349, pg 1832.  

When Th1 is diminished, Th2 predominates leading to a host of chronic diseases. Conditions are pro viral, pro Candida. The chronic viral infection, whether measles or other, cannot be cleared as long as this bias exists. Furthermore, Candida can enhance Th2. This increases IgE, causing Candida to really flourish. One of the things that’s primarily responsible for maintaining the balance is healthy, gut microflora. When microflora are depleted or destroyed you're going to become more Th2 dominant, and have more tendencies towards allergies, and asthma. A strong presence of IgE in the blood is evidence of prominent Th2 activity, and a deficiency of vitamin B₆. Elevated IgE is associated with a history of numerous allergies. Allergies are indicative of an overactive (reactive) immune system. So, if you have high IgE, suspect that Candida and stress are at work, and supplement the vitamin B-complex. IgE mediated allergies have disappeared with removal of mercury.  

Stress is a major factor in the Th2 skew, and is considered a major cause of depression. Any type of stress raises a hormone called cortisol and a secondary hormone called epinephrine, your stress hormone, and this will make you more Th2 dominant, and more prone to allergic type situations. It will put a “tire” of fat on the belly and hips, and it can damage and kill neurons. It also decreases levels of growth factors that enable brain cells to thrive, and it reduces levels of serotonin needed to promote neurogenesis (growth of new neurons). A diet high in refined carbohydrates is going to alter the slow hormonal collective which includes cortisol, epinephrine, and insulin and create a Th2 dominance. Adrenal exhaustion will promote a cytokine shift from Th1 to Th2. Additionally, there are chemicals and heavy metals, such as mercury, that will make you more Th2 dominant. To reduce stress-produced cortisol by 47%, give the child 100 mcg of chromium each day (200 mcg for adults). Magnesium, vitamin C, and pantothenic acid also reduce cortisol and should be supplemented. A 45-minute massage (back rub?) will give a like reduction.  

One study shows that glutathione levels in antigen-presenting cells determine whether Th1 or Th2 response patterns predominate. “Raising glutathione levels has been shown to alter the cytokine balance in favor of a Th1 immune response”—“The immune system”, Peterson, JD, et al., 1998. The best way to increase glutathione quickly is with a transdermal lotion from Kirkman. Another interesting way has been developed to aid those with respiratory problems. Doctors at the Tahoma Clinic have observed remarkable improvements in many with chronic bronchitis or with emphysema who used 60 mg of nebulized, inhaled glutathione two times daily. If you have a problem metabolizing sulfur this may cause yur body to accumulate too much sulfite, creating a wheezing symptom, among others. For an appointment with a physician at Tahoma Clinic, call (253) 854-4900. For a doctor in your area inquire at (800) 532-3688.  

Additionally, when patulin, a sulfhydryl-binding chemical that conjugates glutathione rendering it unavailable for mBCl interaction, was applied to cells that were treated with the glyconutrient Ambrotose™ by Mannatech™, the glyconutrients protected the cells from glutathione depletion. This shows the potential of glyconutrients to not only increase glutathione production as reported elsewhere, but to protect it from loss leaving twice as much glutathione available —Proceedings of the Fisher Institute for Medical Research, November 1997, Page 14. Acemannan® (Manapol®), and reishi mushrooms among others, have been shown to increase the enzyme glutathione synthetase, which in turn produces glutathione (providing the substrates glycine, glutamine, and cysteine are available, WSL). Additionally, in a series of human trials, Acemannan® (from aloe) improved food digestion and absorption and enhanced “good” bacterial flora in the digestive tract by reducing yeast and pH levels—Sugars That Heal, Dr. Emil I. Mondoa, MD. The aloe extract found in Ambrotose® by Mannatech™, also significantly inhibited superoxide anion formation. This is one type of free radical that can have dangerous effects on the fragile DNA in our cells—Kim, HS et al. In Vitro Chemo-protective Effects of Plant Polysaccharides, Carcinogenesis, Aug 1999, 20:8, 1637-40.  

In addition to stress-induced, immune suppression, the body’s natural defense system is also susceptible to stress-induced malnutrition. When the body begins to suffer from stress-induced malnutrition, the cells of the immune system are deprived of critical nutrients necessary for their function. In addition to the macronutrients, myriad micronutrients that include zinc, selenium, vitamins A, C, E, and B₆, the amino acids glutamine, cysteine, and arginine, and proper ratios of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids are known to be necessary for a functional immune system. Observations indicate that Fatty Acids (FA) can modulate immune responses by acting directly on T-cells, and suggest that alteration of cellular FA toward Omega-3 may be a worthwhile approach to control of inflammation that often tends to cancer. It is vital to note that MMR vaccine, and the chronic measles infection so often following, depletes the body of vitamin A. A deficiency of vitamin A and zinc, in particular, hinders cell-mediated immunity (Th1), and “our” kids are universally lacking in these vital nutrients. Scrimshaw, et al. (1968) reviewed over 50 studies of infection and nutrition and wrote, “no nutritional deficiency in the animal kingdom is more consistently synergistic with infection than that of Vitamin A”. In Southern Africa, it was found that injection of 250,000 units of vitamin A reduced measles vaccine deaths to virtually zero. Children with vitamin A deficiency are more susceptible to the effects of DDT, hydrocarbon carcinogens, and PCBs. 

Additionally, the Australian, Archivide Kalokerinos, M.B., B.S., Ph.D., noted for his work among the Australian aborigines in which he reduced an infant morality rate approaching 50% to virtually zero. Noting features of scurvy among some of the infants and children, and observing that many deaths followed vaccinations, he hypothesized that the vaccinations provoked death by throwing the infants into fulminating scurvy. Based on these observations, he improved the nutrition of the children, provided generous amounts of vitamin C, and avoided vaccines when children were ill with colds or other minor infections. As a result of this work he was awarded the Australian Medal of Merit in l978. 

Cell-mediated immunity (CMI) in many infants is probably low, and the vaccines lower CMI further. One vaccine decreases CMI by 50%, two together by 70%. Three? Yet, repeated immunizations with three vaccines simultaneously from four weeks to 12 or 18 months are given. All these triple vaccines markedly impair CMI, yet some uninformed doctors, solely for convenience and profit give 10 viruses into these struggling immune systems in one sitting! Don't let this happen to your child! The longest safety trial of the triple vaccine MMR (all live attenuated viruses) was three weeks!  

Repeat DPT is given at 12 months. In mice, spectrally assayed cytochrome p450 was decreased by 50% for 7 days following DTP vaccination. Phospho-sulfotransferase, a Phase II detox enzyme was also decreased as was the RNA necessary to their production. Children receiving DPT show three times as many seizures as is the norm for children. A similar increase 3.3 times the norm occurred within four to seven days following MMR. This decrease of p450 enzymes tends to harbor toxins within the system, leading to toxicity through a build up of heavy metals and other poisons, including the thimerosal (mercury), aluminum, formaldehyde and other poisons in the vaccine. Mercury has also been found to play a part in neuronal problems through blockage of the p450 liver enzymatic process. Mercury has been shown to diminish and block sulfur oxidation thus reducing glutathione levels which is the part of this process involved in detoxifying and excretion of toxics like mercury. Glutathione is produced through the sulfur oxidation side of this process. Low levels of available glutathione have been shown to increase mercury retention and increase toxic effects. The cytochrome p450 (Phase I) enzyme pathway is the only way a baby has to deal with endotoxins from the gut. The Phase I system is one of several shut down temporarily by the DPT and other vaccines. Toxins from E. Coli (and those of Candida), being given off when the liver is impaired by DTP, can have severe consequences, having been associated with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome! This is all the more likely when there is a chronic deficiency of vitamins A and C as might be induced by a poor diet or by a chronic measles infection of the gut. No effort should be made to eradicate bacteria and fungi, releasing as it does large amounts of endotoxins, without ensuring the child is adequately supplied with nutrients, particularly vitamins A and C. Use of AlkaSeltzer Gold™ is said to reduce the impact of this die off.  

“The repeated use of vaccinations would tend to shift the functional balance of the immune system toward the antibody-producing side (Th2), and away from the acute inflammatory discharging side (the cell-mediated side or Th1). This has been confirmed by observation especially in the case of Gulf War Illness: most vaccinations caused a shift in immune function from the Th1 side (acute inflammatory discharging response) to the Th2 side (chronic auto-immune or allergic response).  

“The wise use of vaccinations would be to use them selectively, and not on a mass scale. In order for vaccinations to be helpful and not harmful, we must know beforehand in each individual to be vaccinated whether the Th1 function or the Th2 function of the immune system predominates. In individuals in whom Th1 predominates, the cellular immune system is overreactive causing many acute inflammations, thus a vaccination could have a balancing effect on the immune system and be helpful for that individual. In individuals in whom Th2 predominates, causing few acute inflammations, but rather the tendency to chronic allergic or autoimmune inflammations, a vaccination would cause Th2 to predominate even more, aggravating the imbalance of the immune system and harming the health of that individual”—Philip F. Incao, MD. 

Multiple vaccinations, in shifting this delicate balance to a predominant Th2 response, favor the development of atopy (asthma, eczema, hay fever, and food intolerances) and, perhaps, autoimmunity through vaccine-induced, polyclonal activation leading to autoantibody production. An increase in the incidence of childhood atopic diseases may be expected as a result of concurrent vaccination strategies that induce a Th2-biased immune response. 

The literature shows an association between antiviral vaccination and onset of childhood asthma. We have noted that attenuation of viral target by conventional vaccine preparation does not completely remove or degrade viral nucleic acids such as double-stranded RNA (dsRNA). It is known that viral dsRNA can induce activation of a host’s antiviral protein kinase (PKR). We have shown that activation of PKR by dsRNA leads to expression of Th2-type immune responses, e.g., allergy and asthma—Farhad Imani, M.D., David Proud, M.D. Recent discovery shows the gamma-delta group of T-cells are responsible for allergic responses through their production of interleukin-4 (IL-4). 

The odds of having a history of asthma were twice as great among (DTP) vaccinated subjects than among unvaccinated subjects (adjusted odds ratio, 2.00; 95% confidence interval, 0.59 to 6.74). The odds of having had any allergy-related respiratory symptom in the past 12 months was 63% greater among vaccinated subjects than unvaccinated subjects (adjusted odds ratio, 1.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.05 to 2.54). The associations between vaccination and subsequent allergies and symptoms were greatest among children aged 5 through 10 years—Hurwitz, E.L., Morgenstern, H; UCLA School of Public Health, Department of Epidemiology, Los Angeles, California. 

One study published in the “Journal of Infectious Diseases” documented a long-term depressive effect on interferon production caused by the measles vaccine. Interferon is a chemical produced by lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) that renders the host resistant to infection. Vaccination of one-year-old infants with measles vaccine caused a precipitous drop in the level of alpha-interferon produced by lymphocytes. This decline persisted for one year following vaccination, at which time the experiment was terminated. Thus, this study showed that measles vaccine produced a significant long-term immune suppression. This suppression lays the child open to all sorts of infections. 

For example: a study published in the “American Journal of Public Health Investigators” on children who contracted polio, a total of 1,300 cases in New York City and 2,137 cases in the remainder of New York State, discovered that children with polio were twice as likely to have received a DTP vaccination in the two months preceding the onset of polio than were the control children. More recently, in a polio epidemic in Oman, DTP vaccination caused the onset of paralytic polio. The report in the British medical journal “Lancet” confirmed that a significantly higher percentage of these children with polio (43% compared to 28% of the controls) had received a DTP shot within 30 days of the onset of polio. The DTP vaccine suppresses the body’s ability to fight off the polio virus. 

Usually then, the autistic child needs to boost Th1 cells. This can be done with Omega-3 fatty acids [EPA at 1000 to 1500 mg a day (two to three teaspoons of CLO), and DHA between 1500 to 2500 mg a day (3 to 5 teaspoons of CLO or fish oil)]. The extra Virgin Olive oil, that contains oleic acid: four tablespoons a day of fresh oil that’s been refrigerated is very supportive of Th1, as is Vitamin A, 25,000 IU (adults), with a lot of carotenoids, a lot of vegetables, carrots, and things like that. In addition to that, L-glutamine, 10 to 20 grams (adult) a day, will strengthen Th1. Use Lactobacillus, two or three different kinds, and Bifidus, and magnesium, zinc, chromium, and silica.  

Hepatic glutathione is a key substrate for reducing toxic oxygen metabolites and oxidized xenobiotics in the liver enabling their clearance from the body. Depletion of hepatic glutathione is a common occurrence in mercury and cadmium toxicity and Leaky Gut Syndromes contributing to liver dysfunction and liver necrosis. It has also been demonstrated that Hg not only directly removes GSH from the cell, but also inhibits the activities of two key enzymes involved in GSH metabolism, GSH synthetase and GSH reductase. Hg also inhibits the activities of the free radical quenching enzymes catalase, superoxide dismutase, and perhaps GSH peroxidase. Inside the cell, Hg0 is oxidized by catalase to the highly reactive Hg2+. Once assimilated in the cell, Hg2+ and MeHg+ form covalent bonds with glutathione and cysteine residues of proteins. Many factors can affect liver function and glutathione availability. For instance, a recent or chronic-active infection can deplete glutathione as does a single dose of Tylenol™. Studies have found that heavy metals, especially mercury and cadmium, deplete glutathione and protein-bound sulfhydryl (SH) groups resulting in inhibiting SH-containing enzymes and the production of reactive oxygen species such as superoxide ion, hydrogen peroxide, and hydroxyl radicals. These reactive oxygen species result in increased lipid peroxidation, enhanced excretion of urinary lipid metabolites, modulation of intracellular oxidized states, DNA damage, membrane damage, altered gene expression, and apoptosis. Increased fragility and decreased sulfhydryl content in cell membranes follow closely, within 4-5 days, a decrease in plasma zinc concentration. These latter signs are readily reversible within 1-2 days by zinc supplementation. Additionally, one must supplement antioxidants vitamins C and E, selenium, and glutathione, and attempt to enhance the body’s production of glutathione. 

The displacement of zinc in the presence of toxic metal burden may explain in part why increased levels of zinc are so commonly seen in the scalp hair of patients exhibiting significant levels of toxic metals Hg, Cd, Pb (Quig, unpublished observations). Such high zinc readings in hair tests would indicate an actual lack of systemic zinc! 

Platelets from zinc deficient rats exhibit abnormal aggregation (failure to aggregate normally), a defect that is associated with impaired calcium uptake. The evidence suggests defective calcium channels in the plasma membrane of cells. Similar observations have been made in brain synaptic membranes from zinc deficient guinea pigs. As in the red cell, membranes from platelets have a lower than normal concentration of sulfhydryls. Treatment of zinc deficient blood with glutathione increases the aggregation response of platelets isolated from the blood of zinc deficient rats, bringing it back to normal. 

Chelation with DMSA needs GSH or NAC to metabolize out as disulfide-bound DMSA-GSH or DMSA-NAC. If replacement NAC/GSH is not supplied, DMSA and DMPS (3-4 times more so than DMSA) consume available stores leaving a dangerous deficiency. In humans, oral glutathione is readily absorbed by the gut mucosa, repleting its glutathione supply; but all remaining GSH is then broken down by the mucosa preventing systemic absorption. This may explain why oral glutathione has been of help to autistic children even when there is apparently no systemic absorption. This being true, one must support the body in its manufacture of GSH to avoid a dangerous lack due to chelation. Nevertheless, given the gut dysfunction found in many autistic children, oral glutathione at 250 - 500 mg/day may be of significant help. Additionally, a glutathione cream has become available. I think this means of replenishment of cellular glutathione is highly desirable. Further, it seems both forms should be used.  

An important point should be emphasized, however, regarding the potential for DMSA to contribute further to cysteine depletion. Ninety percent of the DMSA absorbed is excreted in the urine as a cysteine-DMSA-cysteine disulfide complex.⁴² Therefore, between days of oral administration of DMSA it is important to replace cysteine, except in those instances where the child is cysteine toxic. The important point here is that pharmacological doses of cysteine/NAC, in the range of 1500 mg daily, have the potential to exacerbate the adverse neurological effects of toxic metals since it moves mercury into the brain in rats. It is of interest to note that intravenous glutathione removes mercury from the brain. 

Methionine, betaine, and choline enhance liver function and increase the levels of SAMe and glutathione. In addition to the above supplements, use these that build glutathione: garlic, dandelion, shark liver oil, rice bran extract, lysine, and SAMe. All are totally nontoxic. Carotenes enhance immune response and “spare” the glutathione, a Phase II detoxification enzyme in the liver that we rely on to safely eliminate pollutants and toxins from the body. You might even want to add, after careful testing, Pregnenolone or DHEA, (both suppress cortisol), because the higher the levels of DHEA, within normal, the better Th1 performs. Thyroid, along with the retinol form of vitamin A, is needed to create progesterone and pregnenolone, so it may be better to support the thyroid and use cod-liver oil as suggested herein. Chromium reduces cortisol by 47%. Vitamin E, vitamin B-complex, panax ginseng, digestive enzymes, Transfer Factor™, even some things called arabinogalactans and glyconutrients (AmbroStart™ by Mannatech™), all build Th1 (enhance macrophage action and Natural Killer Cell function). Aloe (Manapol™—a stabilized, standardized Aloe contained in Ambrotose®), Ambrotose®, AmbroStart™, Phyt•Aloe®, PLUS, and ImmunoStart™ (all from Mannatech, Inc.) are without peers in producing glutathione, and in modulating this function of the immune system. A good back rub will make it all come together.  

Additionally, it is known that Vitamin C seems to suppress the Th2 system and promote the Th1 system, which is why asthmatics on Vitamin C have fewer and less severe attacks than those who don’t take Vitamin C (Trop Geogr Med 1980;32:132-7). It has also been shown that the mean vitamin C level in patients with asthma is significantly lower than in healthy control subjects (Afr J Med Sci. 1985;14:115-120), and that Vitamin C can have a protective effect and block Exercise-Induced Asthma (Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med Vol 151, April 1997, pg 367). 

Other than vaccines, candida, and stress, what causes Th2 to be elevated? Faulty digestion, a leaky gut, over consumption of glucose (sugar) and processed foods (that weakens systemic resistance to infection), transfatty acids, a diet high in the Omega-6 fatty acids like linoleic acid (cut canola, use olive). All of these promote over-functioning of Th2. This makes the cell membranes porous, and very vulnerable to infection. Adrenal exhaustion or a lack of glutathione may promote a cytokine shift from Th1 to Th2. Adrenal dysfunction can lead to hypoglycemia, increased allergy symptoms, weight gain, increased menopausal symptoms, mood swings, and mental confusion. Any suffering allergies, including asthma, undoubtedly have two conditions undiagnosed: hypoglycemia and hypoadrenocorticism. These must be corrected by temporary elimination of allergens, a low carbohydrate, high protein intake, and a supplement of nutrients chosen to support the adrenals and pancreas, including desiccated, whole-adrenal glandular. If not needed, the adrenal tablets may make you feel weak. The doctor may wish to offer whole, adrenal-cortex extract injections for faster results. Do not accept cortisone or prednisone! Do not fail to heed what you have just read! 

Additionally, vitamins B₆, B₁₂, A, C, E, para-aminobenzoic acid, pantothenic acid, and the minerals zinc, magnesium, and calcium aid the adrenals in conditions of hypoadrenocorticism (adrenal cortex deficiency). Pantothenic acid (300 mg), vitamin C (2000 mg), for adults, will support the pancreas. The bioflavonoids will reduce allergic reactions to foods and other substances.  

To determine if you have adrenal exhaustion, have your blood pressure checked after lying quietly for 5 minutes, then stand up and immediately recheck the pressure. If the blood pressure reading is lower when you are standing, suspect reduced adrenal function. The degree to which the blood pressure drops upon standing is often proportionate to the degree of hypoadrenalism. (low adrenal function). 

A “Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology” at McGill University and the Institute Pasteur in France article says, “A new study has found additional evidence that a chemical involved in inflammation may play a role in asthma. The study found more of the chemical known as Interleukin 9 (IL-9).” IL-9 is one of those Th2 substances that gets overactive, suppresses Th1, and you wind up with asthma. They believe that if you can lower IL-9 this is going to help treat, and even prevent, asthma. It says, “Interleukins have been known to play a role in regulating the immune system, and in particular, to be responsible for causing the early stages of inflammation.” They found that if you can lower the Th2, especially these Interleukins, and boost Th1 with all the nutrients we’ve been speaking about, they’re going to help dramatically in the management of a wide range of illnesses, including multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, AIDS, Chronic Fatigue, candida, multiple allergies, multiple chemical sensitivities, hepatitis, Gulf War Syndrome, cancer, and other autoimmune diseases, like autism. Just the elimination of candida has been found to cure a third of all eczema, irritable bowel, some asthma, joint pains, and virtually all psoriasis. Other symptoms of candida: internal bloating of the lower abdomen that is aggravated by beer, bread, pasta, sweets, or juices. Another good clue (90% probability) is when one reacts adversely to taking vitamins orally. To this add a high sensitivity to yeast and fungi or products containing them, like yeast, yeast breads, beer, mushrooms, cheese, mustard, vinegar, and mold spores that will cause discomfort when in bathrooms, basements, areas with wet leaves, summer beach houses, etc. Note: Good Housekeeping and Heloise have determined that regular vinegar kills molds at 90% and bacteria at 99.9% efficiency.  

Cytokines (hormone messengers secreted by immune cells), actively transported into the Central Nervous System (CNS), play a key role in this immune activation. It was recently observed that cytokines activate astrocytes and microglia cells (immune system cells) that in turn produce cytokines by a feedback mechanism. Where T-cells are over stimulated, they produce large numbers and amounts of cytokines that cause inflammation in the body, muscular pains, headaches, and often weight loss, and malnourishment. The free radical damage to “self” is great. Moreover, cytokines strongly influence the dopaminergic (dopamine), noradrenergic (noradrenaline), and serotonergic (serotonin) neurotransmission. There are indications that the cascade of cytokines can be activated by neuronal processes. These findings close a theoretical gap between stress and anxiety and their influence on immunity (they greatly lower the natural-killer-cell function). “When we are fit and healthy it means our bodies are working properly and keeping the germs and bugs at bay. It is only because the immune system falls down that we get ill,” said Michael Endecott, research director of the Institute for Complementary Medicine in London. 

Gluten (from grains) and casein (from milk) have immune, as well as neurotransmitter, impacts. Therefore, they have the ability to cause immune dysregulation and neurotransmitter imbalance. Opioids decrease T-cell proliferation via the mu-receptors, and this may cause a mild, immune suppression. Opioids can increase levels of gamma interferon also. When an opioid molecule attaches to a receptor in which it “fits”, adenylate cyclase is inactivated, leading to a decrease in intracellular Cyclic AMP (cAMP). Cyclic AMP is an important messenger system in the brain and body. When intracellular cAMP levels have been lowered because of constant (inappropriate) stimulation of opioid receptors on the cell surface, less tryptophan hydroxylase is phosphorylated, and therefore more of the enzyme is inactive. When this happens, tryptophan is not converted into serotonin, but is shunted down alternate pathways, eventually leading to urinary IAG (indolyl acryloyl glycine) and 3-indoleacetate. It is reported this affects 93% of autistic children. Urinary excretion of IAG in 15 normal subjects was significantly increased in June-September against the November-April collection in the same subjects. Elevated levels of IAG are also found in Hartnup's and SAD (seasonal depression from darkness).   

Organo-phosphate pesticides cause paralysis by inhibiting certain enzyme systems. One of these pesticides, Diazinon, has been shown to seriously interfere with the metabolism of tryptophan in a way that might force tryptophan metabolism towards the IAG route. Are these pesticides contributing to the increased IAG in the urine samples from the majority of people with autism and related disorders? In England, about 80% of those with autism or ADD/ADHD have high IAG levels. Increased IAG could contribute to increased intestinal permeability (leaky gut), and perhaps increased blood-brain barrier permeability. In animals, high opioid levels cause indifference to mother and others in the family. 

Immune B-cells can secrete the antibodies, immunoglobulins IgD, IgM, IgG, IgA, and IgE, which bind with the foreign antigen and produce red cell lysis, inactivate the virus, or produce bacterial phagocytosis. Most autistic children have delayed allergic reactions to some foods (show high IgG), and/or immediate, strong reactions to foods, inhaled pollens or mold (high IgE). These allergic reactions disrupt normal immune balance and alter interleukin-2 levels exacerbating their symptoms. IgA is normally secreted into the digestive tract in response to incoming food. IgA protects the mucosal surfaces of the mouth, nose, throat, gastrointestinal tract, ears and the eyes. Recurrent infections are an indication of deficient IgAs. Secretory IgA (sIgA) levels are elevated in the presence of infection or overgrowth of unwelcome germs, and are depressed if the infection or overgrowth is excessive. The incidence of selective IgA deficiency is 10 times higher in those with celiac disease than in the general population. IgA protects the mucus membranes of the body. Comprehensive stool analysis often finds below normal levels of Secretory IgA’s in the gut. One of the first things you want to do is to balance these Secretory IgA’s so as to protect the first line of defense in the intestinal tract. Tribes that live mainly on animal protein have the highest levels of IgA, and they almost never have infections according to Wolfgang Lutz who wrote the book on the myth of carbohydrate. IgA is found at very high levels in colostrum. The use of Bovine Colostrum should be very productive in overcoming these chronic infections, and should be preferred to repeated courses of antibiotics. When there is active infection, take a dose of colostrum every four hours around the clock until symptoms are fully cleared.  

It is interesting to note that diseases that can be associated with celiac disease include lactose intolerance, dermatitis herpetiformis, insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM), systemic lupus erythematosus, thyroid disease, and autoimmune disorders. In fact, if you have dermatitis herpetiformis (an itchy, blistery skin problem), you have celiac disease. 

One additional bit of advice: Never, ever let a child be vaccinated if he has had a recent infection/sickness, or is prone to repeat infections with the related antibiotic courses. Early and high frequency rates of ear infection are associated with greater severity of autism (J Autism and Dev Dis 17:585,1987). It is the children who have had three or more antibiotic courses who have a 4-times higher rate of adverse vaccine reaction. It is the ones vaccinated while suffering an infection or after a recent infection that often regresses into autism. Be warned. It all has to do with the immune function. Never accept a vaccine containing Thimerosal™, and never accept more than one shot per day. To pump ten viruses with the related mercury and other toxins into a child at one sitting is asinine and stupid, and should be criminal!   

Yeast species like candida are known to induce immune changes, and to produce neurotoxins, and most autistic children have yeast problems. Yeast binds the B-vitamins, and in absence of Bifidus flora, creates subclinical pellagra and beriberi. This lack of B-vitamins, particularly vitamin B₆ will interfere with the production of serotonin, melatonin, and other important neurotransmitters that controls behavior—so normal brain chemistry in the presence of yeast overgrowth is unlikely. Clostridia, found in approximately 20% ASD patients, and other harmful bacteria, also cause neurotoxic effects. These immunological changes (altered interleukins, cytokines, histamine, neuro-hormones, and other immune factors) affect brain chemistry, especially in the cerebellar and sensory components of the brain, and most autistic children have altered sensory perception. Reactions to clostridial toxins in mice suggest that it enhances glutamate efflux, leading to seizure and hippocampal neuronal damage. Komulain and Tuomisto, in 1981, found that methyl mercury, even in low concentrations, inhibited the uptake in synaptic nerve endings in the brain of the neurotransmitters dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin. This would be excitotoxic and tend to deplete the available neurotransmitters. The possibility of each of these imbalances should be examined, and, if present, corrected.  

Since a major consequence of this immune imbalance is allergy, it is good to note some frequent manifestations. “Toddlers have excessive infections. They whine, they pinch, they hit, they spit, they kick, and they bite in excess between two and four years. They bite their siblings, their mother in particular, and sometimes their father. They have excessive temper tantrums. They have a lot of intestinal symptoms. They vomit clear mucous, and that means milk allergy. They dislike being held. They say the same sentence over and over again. They’re hyperactive, fatigued, and they have bowel problems. These are characteristic symptoms that frequently are related to something they ate, touched, or smelled. (You can often tame the Terrible Two’s with a zinc supplement—WSL.) Any food can cause diarrhea, but the food that’s most apt to cause constipation in any age group is milk and dairy products. Abdominal complaints such as swelling, belching, bloating, rectal gas, that sort of thing, is the result. 

"Bad breath is almost always milk, wheat and eggs. Bedwetting, after age five, if it’s related to a food, is due to milk or it’s due to a fruit juice. Soiled underwear: when they leak, and they have a little bowel movement on their pants all the time, it’s frequently due to grapes and raisins, but other foods can also cause it (like undigested fats, shown by light-colored stool—WSL). Leg aches, called growing pains—take the milk out of the diet for a week, then add the milk back, and you’ll see that many leg aches are due to milk sensitivities. Again, there are other causes for leg aches, but this is one of the causes. Clucking throat sounds—that’s a milk allergy. The potbelly is very characteristic of people who have food allergies. There are many other causes; you may have parasites, enzymatic dysfunction, or a malfunction in your gut, but one reason is allergies. 

"Learning, behavior problems, and depression: Young children four and five that want to kill themselves. Again, ask what did they eat, touch, or smell? They have headaches. They make strange noises. They bark like dogs. That sort of thing. They have asthma, hay fever, and eczema. When a person eats a food that causes eczema, which is an itchy rash in the creases of the arms and the legs, the area will get red when you’re eating the food, and the next day, they have the rash. So, there’s a delayed reaction, and that makes it difficult to put cause and effect together. But, if you watch the skin while they’re eating, you’ll be able to tell when it feels red and hot and that’s when they’ve eaten a food to which they are sensitive. 

"The adolescents have intestinal problems. Depression and fatigue are much more common. They say they have a ballooned, fuzzy head. They recognize that their head’s not thinking, not feeling right. Their muscles and joints ache. They frequently have an irregular heartbeat. Take your pulse. It should be nice and regular, if it’s irregular; something’s wrong (it could be a lack of potassium or magnesium—WSL). What did you eat, touch, or smell? Start to pay attention to your body, especially to your pulse. It’s like a smoke alarm in a room. (Get “The Pulse Test” by Dr. Arthur F. Coca, MD—WSL.) 

“Irritability and aggressiveness in adults are very common. I believe that much battering—wife battering, husband battering, sibling battering, mother battering—I think a lot of that is due to unrecognized sensitivities to foods and chemicals, and things of that sort. Now, the adults tend to be too tired. The women, in particular, cry easily, and are very depressed. Many times, they are moody and easily upset.”—(edited) Dr. Doris Rapp, MD.  

Aggression has also been connected to both too much and too little magnesium. Usually it is too little. Magnesium controls the breakdown and loss of serotonin in the synapse, and it is the best calcium channel blocker. 

Research shows that it is the magnesium status that controls cell membrane potential and through this means controls uptake and release of many hormones, nutrients, and neurotransmitters. It is magnesium that controls the fate of potassium and calcium in the cell. If it is insufficient, potassium and calcium will be lost in the urine and calcium will enter the cell excessively causing spasms and cramps, and it will be deposited in the soft tissues (kidneys, arteries, joints, brain, etc.).  

Magnesium protects the cell from aluminum, mercury, lead, cadmium, beryllium, and nickel. Evidence is mounting that low levels of magnesium contribute to the heavy metal deposition in the brain that precedes Parkinson's, Multiple Sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s. It is probable that low total body magnesium contributes to heavy metal toxicity in children, and it is a participant in the etiology of learning disorders.   

In addition to allergy or opioid production, it has been found that milk and dairy can actually cause a microscopic blood loss in the intestine by a “reactive” inflammation of the bowel. This can lead to anemia. Curiously, a child that might go berserk on milk may not have a reaction to “processed” cheese. When the protein structure is changed, the food will not give as large an allergic reaction. “Unless a child has eczema where yolk or egg is triggering off a skin reaction, for some reason the immune pathway fired off by eggs doesn’t seem to play a role in what we are talking about in the brain. I rarely have to worry about taking a child off of eggs, even though you may have this ‘huge reaction’ on the food screen”—Dr. Michael Goldberg.  

There is evidence of immune suppression on exposure to testing doses of phenols (see PST).  There may be a drop in T-suppressor cells or total T-cell numbers. An overabundance of B-cells was interpreted as a reflection of toxic image to the immune system. An increase in helper cells, antibody formation, and elevation of some immunoglobulins was also noted. Other findings on phenolic exposure have been depressed serotonin, elevated histamine, and prostaglandins, abnormal complement and immune complex formation. It can contribute to the toxic overload in PST, or it can precipitate an allergic reaction. 

These alterations in normal body chemistry are largely due to a damaged, chronically-irritated, gastrointestinal tract largely caused by vaccinations, heavy metals, particularly mercury, antibiotics, resulting candida and bacterial overgrowth, and by chronic viral infections, and milk. While it is important to remove the allergens and to deal with the yeast, the single most effective, least expensive, way to treat the cause and not the secondary symptoms is homeopathy. I know the principles of homeopathy offend reason and the good American Way, “more is better”. With homeopathy, “less is more”. There are forces we do not begin to comprehend working in this body, and homeopathy is working with one. Find a skilled homeopath, and ask him to clear the vaccine damage and resultant virus infections, and the heavy metals poisoning. There seems to be two schools. Some will treat individual allergies. If you treat the causes (vaccine damage to the immune system, and the metal overload) and not the allergic symptoms, expensive tests and therapies for allergies will be unnecessary. The method I recommend uses the actual vaccine to clear vaccine damage and the toxins and metals that vaccine introduced into the body. When this is done, the gut is usually healed, there will be few if any allergies left, and candida will likely no longer be a problem. You will be amazed at the simplicity and relative, low cost, and immediate results, though there is some temporary regression with each course. This will restore the immune function to balance, and then other necessary, nutritional and behavioral interventions will be 10 times more effective. Until you have done this, other efforts will be very expensive and not fully effective. To those who are ready, I will supply the name of a homeopath using real vaccine remedies that are not usually offered by other homeopaths.