Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Autism [Podcast Episode #223]

Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Autism [Podcast Episode #223]

Author: Karen Thomas, Founder, CEO June 25, 2025 Duration: 9:53
Mitochondria give cells over 90% of their energy. Without proper energy cells cannot carry out their functions. Mitochondrial Dysfunction vs Mitochondrial Disease Mitochondrial dysfunction simply means that the mitochondria are not working correctly. Mitochondrial disease is the term used when the primary cause of mitochondrial dysfunction resides in the mitochondria. Mitochondrial disease is generally genetic. It can be inherited from either or both parents. A special type of mitochondrial disease is caused by mutations on the mitochondrial DNA, and is inherited only from the mother. When the primary cause of mitochondrial dysfunction resides outside the mitochondria, mitochondrial dysfunction is called “secondary” (to something else). Symptoms of Mitochondrial Dysfunction Cellular energy is necessary for the function of all cells, but is particularly critical for nerve and muscle. Both nerve and muscle are important in GI function, thus cyclic vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, poor GI mobility, and other digestive disorders are common. Additional potential complications of mitochondrial dysfunction include chronic fatigue, neuropathic pain, depression, autistic regression, seizures, hypoglycemia, visual and hearing difficulty, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, intellectual disability, and dysautonomia. Mitochondrial Triggers Mitochondrial dysfunction can be genetic, but even then, disease is often triggered by the environment. Viral infections are among the most common triggers of mitochondrial dysfunction. Additional potential triggers are other infections (e.g. lyme bacteria), vaccinations, toxins, anesthesia, and any other significant stressor. In order situations, mitochondrial dysfunction can be acquired. In fact, stroke and heart attack involve mitochondrial dysfunction, whereas cells are receiving insufficient oxygen for required energy metabolism. Many environmental toxins can poison mitochondria as well, including some pesticides... Click Here or Click the link below for more details! https://naturallyrecoveringautism.com/223

For any parent navigating an autism diagnosis, the path forward can feel overwhelming and lined with fixed opinions. Naturally Recovering Autism with Karen Thomas offers a different perspective, grounded not in theory but in lived experience. Host Karen Thomas speaks from the unique position of a mother who was told her son could not recover, yet through more than a decade of dedicated personal research and application, witnessed his journey to recovery. Her professional background as a Craniosacral Therapist informed her understanding that the brain can heal with the correct support. This podcast is a deeply personal resource, translating that hard-won knowledge into actionable conversations. Each episode delves into the practical strategies, nutritional insights, and holistic approaches Karen utilized, always with the aim of empowering parents with clarity and hope. You’ll hear detailed discussions on the interconnected factors that can influence neurodevelopment, from dietary adjustments to specific therapeutic interventions. The tone is both compassionate and straightforward, avoiding jargon in favor of real-world advice. Tuning into this podcast means accessing a roadmap built by someone who has walked the terrain herself, focusing on the tangible steps families can take to foster resilience and well-being. It’s a dedicated space for parents seeking to actively support their child’s potential through natural, informed means.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Naturally Recovering Autism with Karen Thomas
Podcast Episodes
Common Causes of Seizures In Autism [Podcast Episode #164] [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 34:04
As I write this I want to be sure you know it’s never just one thing, but a combination of them that triggers anything, including seizures. Autism is a complicated diagnosis with many underlying biological issues that ne…
7 Tips To Help You Lose Weight [Podcast Episode #162] [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:59
Losing weight has far greater challenges if you’re not aware of seven crucial things. Many mothers talk about how their children on the autism spectrum (or they themselves) are having trouble losing weight. Often this di…
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Duration: 20:50
Whether your child has autism, ADD, ADHD, or any other neurological imbalance, it is known that natural brain supplements often work far better than pharmaceutical drugs without the negative or dangerous side effects. If…
The Glycemic Index and Autism [Podcast Episode #159] [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:11
The importance of knowing the glycemic index of your food choices is a preventative measure in your child’s health and behavior. This will also help to prevent obesity and diabetes along with keeping his gut flora in bet…
Diabetes Triggers and Prevention [Podcast Episode #158] [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 16:25
There are other physical problems that can accompany autism. One disorder that affects so many children today is diabetes. It is important to recognize the signs of diabetes, know the triggers and understand what you can…
Holiday Eating and Behavior [Podcast Episode #157] [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:18
The Exponential Harm of Inflammatory and Chemical Laden Foods Many foods eaten during the holidays such as sugar, gluten, dairy and food dyes will cause exponential harm to your child’s health and behavior. These foods b…