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The Biomedical Controversy
Specialized diets, chelation, nutritional therapies and other alternative treatments for autism are popular and well regarded by many families. Mainstream researchers, however, point to potential dangers and questionable outcomes. The articles in this section include various different perspectives on a variety of alternative biomedical treatments for autism spectrum disorders.
The Dangers of Chelation: A Doctor's Perspective
Chelation is a treatment used to remove metals from the body. It has been used successfully for lead poisoning, usually in a hospital setting. Now, chelation is recommended by some practitioners to treat autism. Dr. James Coplan, a developmental pediatrician, explains why chelation may be the wrong choice.
An Alternative Perspective: Live Virus Vaccines and Autism
The NIH and other mainstream research foundations make it clear that the MMR vaccine is in no way implicated in autism. Individual researchers, such as Dr. Andrew Wakefield of Thoughtful House, disagree. But what exactly is this alternative theory? What are its implications? And what might it mean to parents of children with autism?
Biomedical Treatments for Autism from the Autism Research Institute
How has the biomedical "Defeat Autism Now" approach to autism treatment changed? Dr. Steven Edelson, the new director of the Autism Research Institute, explains.
