Interventions and Protocols

Gluten-Free & Allergen-Free Diet

 

For some children, dietary changes bring noticeable improvements in mood, language, and sensory regulation. Common approaches include:

• Gluten-free and casein-free (GFCF) diets

• Removing soy, corn, food dyes, or other inflammatory triggers

• Tracking symptoms in relation to known or suspected exposures

Especially important: Test before eliminating. Screening for conditions like Celiac disease is often most accurate before dietary changes begin.

Anti-inflammatory & Immune-Modulating Support

 

Some symptoms may stem from chronic low-grade inflammation or immune dysfunction affecting the brain and gut. Parents have explored:

• Antihistamines (e.g., Claritin) for suspected histamine sensitivity

• Low-dose naltrexone (LDN) to help modulate immune responses

• Steroids or IVIG (with medical supervision) in cases of suspected autoimmune encephalitis

• Nasal sprays (e.g., steroid sprays) to reduce subclinical sinus inflammation

These are typically pursued under guidance from specialists like neuroimmunologists, rheumatologists, or functional medicine doctors.

Micronutrients & Supplementation

 

Micronutrient deficiencies are common in kids with absorption issues or chronic inflammation. Some families monitor and support:

• Zinc, copper, iron, and vitamin D

• Methylated B vitamins and folinic acid

• Omega-3s (DHA) for brain support

• Magnesium for relaxation and sleep

• Probiotics/prebiotics to support a healthy gut microbiome

Testing micronutrient levels — through blood panels or specialized tests — helps guide what’s actually needed.

Gut Healing & Microbiome Support

 

Many of our breakthroughs came after discovering chronic GI issues and signs of malabsorption. Interventions here focused on healing the gut lining and restoring microbial balance:

• Gluten-free diet – A foundational change after testing and observing strong behavioral and GI reactions to gluten exposure.

• Probiotics & Prebiotics – Rotated and adjusted based on microbiome testing and stool consistency.

• Zinc, Copper, Iron – Micronutrients critical for gut integrity, growth, and neurological function — tested regularly and supplemented as needed.

• Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin D, K, DHA – Provided daily support for gut-brain regulation.

Communication & Regulation Support

 

Improving speech, engagement, and reducing stimming required a multi-layered approach:

• Speech therapy – Frequent sessions in school and home settings, focusing on modeling, imitation, and functional phrases.

• Occupational therapy (OT) – Sensory-based work to support regulation, transitions, and fine motor skills.

• Special instruction & EI services – Helped generalize skills and support play-based learning in social settings.

• Visual supports – Cards and visual prompts to help with transitions, requests, and group participation.

• Targeted prompting (e.g., ABA-lite) – We selectively used structured prompting for functional goals (e.g., “I want [item]”) without full behavioral programs.

Flare-Up Protocol

 

When we noticed signs of a flare — whether GI-related, behavioral, or both — we followed a basic protocol to help reduce symptom severity:

1. Immediate removal of trigger (if known)

2. Baking soda + Epsom salt baths

3. Motrin + antihistamines (as discussed with a provider)

4. Simplified routine — more outdoor time, fewer demands

5. Tracking symptoms and timing for possible medical escalation

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT)

 

One of the most impactful tools we’ve used — especially when symptoms pointed to neuroinflammation, hypoxia, or immune dysfunction — has been HBOT (Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy).

Why We Tried It

After extensive research and clinical discussions, we chose to try HBOT as a way to:

• Reduce inflammation in the brain and gut

• Support mitochondrial function and cellular healing

• Improve speech, sleep, and regulation

• Help recover after neurological regressions or immune flare-ups

What We Noticed

While responses vary, we personally saw improvements in:

• Language (spontaneous words, clearer articulation)

• Social engagement and mood

• Reduced stimming and hyperactivity

• Better sleep and fewer GI issues when done consistently

 

For additional background, this paper by Dr. Neubrander (2007) shares anecdotal reports of dramatic improvements in language and behavior in some children following HBOT, especially when paired with biomedical treatments