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You’ve tried so many things to help your autistic child. You’ve subscribed to blogs, watched the reels, and maybe even tried new diets. But autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is complex. You need a trusted guide to point you in the right direction.
At Lindgren Functional Medicine, Dr. Lindgren takes a compassionate, functional medicine approach that looks deeper—beyond labels—to uncover the biological imbalances, environmental triggers, and nutritional deficiencies that influence how autism presents and progresses. By addressing the whole body, not just the brain, patients experience improvements in mood, focus, digestion, and overall well-being.
Traditional medicine often focuses on the genetic component of autism. And while there’s no doubt that genetic predispositions exist, genes alone rarely determine outcomes. Functional medicine takes the position that genes load the gun, but environment pulls the trigger.
This means that certain genes may increase sensitivity to toxins, inflammation, or nutritional deficiencies, but how those genes express themselves depends heavily on a person’s environment and lifestyle. Factors such as gut health, immune dysregulation, and chronic inflammation can all influence brain development and behavior. Dr. Lindgren’s approach begins with comprehensive testing to understand each individual’s genetic and biochemical makeup, then uses that information to tailor interventions that support healing and optimal function.
Let’s take a look at Dr. Lindgren’s two main focuses: the gut microbiome and immune restoration.
There’s growing recognition in medical research of the gut-brain connection—the bidirectional communication between the digestive system and the nervous system. For individuals with autism, this connection can be especially important.
Many children and adults on the autism spectrum struggle with gastrointestinal issues such as constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and food sensitivities. These aren’t just digestive inconveniences—they can drive inflammation, affect neurotransmitter production, and worsen behavioral symptoms. Up to 70% of the body’s serotonin (a neurotransmitter that influences mood and social behavior) is produced in the gut.
Dr. Lindgren often begins with an in-depth gut health assessment, including stool testing to evaluate microbiome balance, digestive function, and markers of inflammation. Restoring gut balance can lead to meaningful changes in how patients feel and function day to day.
By improving gut health, many families notice reduced irritability, better sleep, and more consistent focus in children and adults with autism.
Another key area of Dr. Lindgren’s care model involves the immune system, which is often overactive or dysregulated in individuals with autism. Inflammation, autoimmunity, and chronic immune activation can all influence neurological function.
Functional medicine sees immune imbalances not as random, but as the body’s adaptive response to chronic stressors—whether those stressors are infections, toxins, or inflammatory foods. Dr. Lindgren evaluates markers of immune function, including cytokines, antibodies, and oxidative stress levels, to identify what’s driving that overactivity.
Immune-focused interventions may include the following:
When the immune system is stabilized, patients often experience fewer behavioral flare-ups, more regulated energy, and improved sensory processing.
Autism is not caused by one single factor. Rather, a variety of triggers can worsen the expression of symptoms, even in people with stable genetic backgrounds. Recognizing and addressing these triggers is central to Dr. Lindgren’s functional medicine approach.
Many children and adults on the autism spectrum have impaired detoxification pathways, meaning their bodies struggle to remove heavy metals, pesticides, and other pollutants. These toxins can disrupt brain chemistry and mitochondrial function. Functional testing helps identify toxin exposure, so Dr. Lindgren can create a targeted detox plan using safe, natural methods.
Certain foods—especially those containing gluten, dairy, and artificial additives—can cause inflammation or trigger neurological reactions in sensitive individuals. At the same time, nutrient deficiencies in zinc, magnesium, B vitamins, and essential fatty acids can worsen symptoms. Dr. Lindgren uses individualized nutrition and supplementation protocols to correct these imbalances.
Chronic infections—such as viral or bacterial overgrowths—can create a persistent immune response that affects brain health. This inflammation can alter neurotransmitter levels, leading to anxiety, sleep disturbances, and difficulty focusing.
Mitochondria are the energy powerhouses of the cell. Many individuals with autism show signs of mitochondrial dysfunction, meaning their cells cannot efficiently produce energy. Dr. Lindgren supports mitochondrial health through nutrients such as CoQ10, carnitine, and antioxidants.
Emotional stress and poor sleep quality can amplify sensory sensitivities and behavioral issues. Functional medicine supports healthy sleep cycles through nervous system balancing, nutrition, and relaxation therapies.
The hallmark of functional medicine is its systems-based perspective. Instead of viewing autism as a “brain disorder,” Dr. Lindgren sees it as a whole-body condition involving the gut, immune system, detoxification pathways, and mitochondria. Everything works together with the nervous system.
This integrative lens allows for customized care plans that go beyond symptom management to support genuine improvement in quality of life. Families often report better communication, emotional balance, and learning progress when these underlying systems are addressed.
Functional interventions might include the following:
At Lindgren Functional Medicine, each patient’s journey begins with listening. Dr. Lindgren understands that behind every test result is a person—a child, sibling, or adult with hopes, challenges, and unique strengths. She believes that healing begins with connection, compassion, and curiosity.
Through careful analysis of labs, genetics, and environmental factors, Dr. Lindgren develops individualized plans that meet patients where they are. Whether the focus is on improving communication, reducing anxiety, or managing digestive issues, every recommendation is part of a broader goal: to help each individual reach their full potential.
Dr. Lindgren says, “Functional medicine gives us the tools to see the full picture—how the gut, immune system, brain, and environment interact. Once we understand that, we can create real change.”
Autism is not a single pathway—it’s a spectrum of experiences shaped by biology, environment, and care. Through her functional, gut- and immune-focused approach, Dr. Lindgren helps families discover new ways to support health and connection from the inside out.
If you’re ready to explore a compassionate, whole-body approach to autism, schedule a consultation with Lindgren Functional Medicine today. Discover how understanding your unique biochemistry can help unlock new levels of healing, growth, and balance.
