Supporting a child with autism, ADHD and emotional regulation challenges through nutritional assessment and repeat hair testing.
The Background
An 11-year-old boy with autism and ADHD had experienced significant challenges with anxiety, emotional regulation, fatigue and school attendance.
At one stage, attending school had become so overwhelming that he was unable to attend for an extended period. Everyday activities and changes in routine could be difficult, affecting the whole family.
His parents wanted to explore whether nutritional factors might be contributing to his difficulties and how they could better support his wellbeing.
What the Hair Test Revealed
Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) identified several mineral imbalances, including:
- Very low manganese levels.
- A low sodium-to-potassium ratio.
- Elevated calcium and copper levels on subsequent tests.
- Changes in mineral relationships that warranted ongoing nutritional review.
These findings provided additional information to consider alongside his diet, symptoms and developmental needs.
The Nutritional Approach
A personalised programme was developed incorporating targeted nutritional supplements, dietary support, digestive health strategies and techniques to support emotional regulation.
Repeat hair testing formed an important part of the programme, allowing us to monitor changes in mineral patterns over time and adjust recommendations as his needs changed.
Not every mineral moved in the desired direction, highlighting the importance of reassessment rather than continuing the same supplements indefinitely.
The Results
Over time, his family reported significant improvements in his emotional wellbeing and ability to cope with everyday challenges.
Some of the most meaningful milestones included:
- Improved emotional regulation and greater resilience.
- A more settled and positive emotional state.
- Progressing from an extended period of school absence to starting secondary school.
- Managing new experiences, including a family holiday abroad.
Although challenges remain, the difference in his confidence, everyday functioning and opportunities to participate in family life has been considerable.
The biggest changes aren’t always found on a laboratory report. Sometimes they’re seen in a child returning to school, enjoying a family holiday and being able to experience more of everyday life.
This anonymised case reflects one family’s experience. HTMA is not a diagnostic test for autism, ADHD or anxiety, and the improvements described cannot be attributed to nutritional support alone.
