Autism Spectrum Disorder: To Detox or Not to Detox
Join Remed naturopath Samantha Porter as she discusses one of the most often asked question when she first meets her patients: can you help me detoxify? She explains the impact of environmental toxins on her patients, genetic tendencies that can provide a susceptibility to toxins and why there is a time and a place for supported detoxification.
Covered in This Episode
00:50 Understanding Neurodiverse Presentations
Sam Porter specialises in supporting neurodivergent children, particularly those with autism, ADHD, and anxiety. She discusses why many parents come to her seeking detoxification for their children, often influenced by misleading online health information.
1:11 The Dangers of Detoxification
Many parents believe detoxification is the first step, but Sam explains why this approach can be harmful if done too soon. She outlines the risks of removing toxins from the body too quickly, potentially exposing the brain and nervous system to more harm.
1:30 Sam's Journey to Naturopathy
Sam's personal experience with her youngest child, diagnosed with autism at age two, led her to explore natural medicine. Frustrated with the lack of support, she sought naturopathic solutions, which transformed her child’s health and inspired her career.
2:25 Specialising in Neurodivergent Children
Sam explains how her own experiences shaped her approach to working with autistic and ADHD children. Her practice focuses on gentle, evidence-based interventions to support neurological health.
2:53 Detoxification Misconceptions
Many parents turn to Google for health advice, leading them to detox trends that may not be safe. Sam clarifies why detox is not the first step and why it’s crucial to prepare the body first.
4:05 Heavy Metals and Their Impact
Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and aluminium are neurotoxic and can impact brain function, cognition, and executive function. Sam explains how heavy metals contribute to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, worsening ASD symptoms in susceptible individuals.
6:09 Environmental Toxins Beyond Heavy Metals
It’s not just heavy metals—other pollutants like endocrine disruptors (e.g., bisphenol A, pesticides, and plastics) also affect neurological development and behaviour. Many of these toxins are difficult to test for but must be considered in case history and exposure assessments.
7:43 Genetic Susceptibility and Testing
Sam discusses the role of genetic SNPs (single nucleotide polymorphisms) that influence detoxification and neurological health.
47 genes involved in detox pathways and 30 genes regulating the blood-brain barrier, placenta, and respiratory system play a role in susceptibility.
Key genetic variations she often sees in her patients include:
CBS gene mutation: Linked to reduced glutathione production, making detoxification harder.
Glutathione S-transferase genes (GSTs): Affect the ability to clear heavy metals and environmental toxins.
15:13 Supporting Detox Pathways
Rather than jumping into detox, Sam focuses on optimising the body’s natural detox pathways by:
Correcting nutrient deficiencies (low iron, zinc, selenium, glutathione).
Strengthening the gut and blood-brain barrier before any detox.
Addressing constipation and liver function to ensure safe elimination.
She also discusses dietary interventions and environmental changes, such as using air purifiers and switching to non-toxic cookware.
18:48 Patient Success Stories
Sam shares some of the positive transformations she’s seen in her patients, including:
Improved emotional regulation and reduced anxiety.
Decreased aggressive or self-harming behaviors (e.g., headbanging).
Enhanced focus, executive function, and learning abilities.
She stresses the importance of personalised treatment, working slowly and gently with children’s delicate systems.
Resources and Links
Book with ReMed Naturopath Samantha Porter: Samantha Porter is a highly knowledgeable naturopath with a strong focus and unwavering passion for aiding children facing behavioural challenges. Armed with a degree in Naturopathy, Samantha has focused her expertise into a specialised area of paediatric practice that resonates deeply with her personal journey. Drawing from her firsthand experience as a devoted mother to a child with autism and ADHD, Samantha intimately understands the intricacies and hurdles that families and their children encounter. This unique vantage point fuels her commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of these children and their loved ones.
