Question 1

My child has a loss in appetite since starting the protocol. Why might be the problem?

Accepted Answer

Various things might cause a decrease in appetite when starting the protocol. I would first check the doses, especially of the fish oil, which can cause nausea in excessive amounts, even in adults. If the doses are OK (double-check using our dosing guides), try just stopping the fish oil or giving it at a separate time from the olive oil.nnAnother consideration is that the decrease in hunger is a relative decrease from an abnormally high level of food-seeking, not necessarily eating less than might be healthy.  As I discussed elsewhere, children with autism often have very low brain blood pressure, which contributes to hyperactivity, poor focus, anxiety, and an increased level of hunger since carbohydrates and salt tend to boost blood pressure in the brain (the brain likes this).  Balancing the intestinal bacteria sometimes can significantly improve brain blood pressure causing the frequent food seeking to decline to a more normal level of hunger — a decline for sure, but towards a more appropriate level of eating.nnFinally, always consider the drop in hunger might be from some other medical issue.  A middle ear infection, frightened of recent changes at school, a new therapist, a viral process, or something else causing diarrhea or bloating or some other new medication.

Question 2

My child has a loss in appetite since starting the protocol. Why might be the problem?

Accepted Answer

Various things might cause a decrease in appetite when starting the protocol. I would first check the doses, especially of the fish oil, which can cause nausea in excessive amounts, even in adults. If the doses are OK (double-check using our dosing guides), try just stopping the fish oil or giving it at a separate time from the olive oil.nnAnother consideration is that the decrease in hunger is a relative decrease from an abnormally high level of food-seeking, not necessarily eating less than might be healthy.  As I discussed elsewhere, children with autism often have very low brain blood pressure, which contributes to hyperactivity, poor focus, anxiety, and an increased level of hunger since carbohydrates and salt tend to boost blood pressure in the brain (the brain likes this).  Balancing the intestinal bacteria sometimes can significantly improve brain blood pressure causing the frequent food seeking to decline to a more normal level of hunger — a decline for sure, but towards a more appropriate level of eating.nnFinally, always consider the drop in hunger might be from some other medical issue.  A middle ear infection, frightened of recent changes at school, a new therapist, a viral process, or something else causing diarrhea or bloating or some other new medication.