Experts Warn Against ‘Autism Detox’ Treatments: Potential Health Risks and Lack of Scientific Basis

By Sara Moniuszko, CBS News Health & Wellness Reporter
January 24, 2025

In recent years, there has been a rise in misinformation regarding so-called "autism detox treatments," which claim to reverse autism diagnoses by removing toxins and heavy metals from the body. Health experts, however, are sounding the alarm, asserting that these treatments lack scientific support and could pose significant health risks.

The Appeal of Detox Treatments

Proponents of autism detox treatments often market products that contain zeolite, a mineral-based substance sold in various forms such as tinctures and sprays, particularly targeting parents of children with autism. These products are advertised with promises of detoxification, suggesting that accumulated toxins are responsible for autism symptoms.

Dr. Alycia Halladay, chief science officer at the Autism Science Foundation, emphasized on "CBS Mornings Plus" that these claims are unfounded. "There is absolutely no science behind this," she stated. "It’s been tested and disproven that individuals with autism have a higher load of heavy metals." This assertion is further backed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which asserts that these detox products are not approved for treating autism and have been associated with various health risks.

Health Risks of Detox Products

Detox treatments like those containing zeolite minerals can result in adverse health effects. The FDA has issued warning letters to multiple companies for making baseless claims about their products. Furthermore, the detox approach may remind consumers of chelation therapy, a controversial procedure that removes metals from the body. The FDA previously cautioned against chelation therapy as a treatment for autism due to its dangerous side effects, including kidney damage and even death.

Julie Landry, co-founder and board-certified clinical psychologist at NeuroSpark Health, warned that "there is no credible scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of ‘detox treatments’ for autism, and the risks can be significant." She explained that chelation therapy was initially developed to treat lead poisoning, but many of its uses in autism treatment have been condemned due to serious health consequences.

What Is Zeolite?

Zeolite is a mineral primarily made up of aluminum and silicon compounds. Commonly employed in household products like detergents and air purifiers, zeolite is often marketed as a health supplement. However, evidence to support its efficacy in treating ailments, including autism, remains nonexistent. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center notes that there are "no published human data" indicating that zeolites can cure or treat autism.

The cancer center also warns that some forms of zeolite, particularly a fibrous type called erionite, pose serious health risks, including potential lung cancer when inhaled.

The Importance of Evidence-Based Support for Autism

Landry advocates for evidence-based support and interventions tailored to autistic individuals. "Support should validate experiences, teach self-advocacy skills, and create personalized strategies for navigating the neurotypical environment," she said, emphasizing that there is no need for a "cure" for autism or a detox regimen.

Instead of harmful and unproven detox treatments, experts suggest evidence-backed therapies. Halladay pointed out that medication reviewed and approved by the FDA can help manage symptoms like aggression and irritability associated with autism. Additionally, behavioral interventions focusing on improving communication and daily living skills are crucial in supporting autistic individuals.

LaQuista Erinna, an autism advocate and therapist, calls for parents to seek information grounded in scientific evidence. "It’s essential to avoid false claims and consult medical professionals regarding any concerns. Living a healthier lifestyle can lead to better outcomes," she stated.

Conclusion

The rise of "autism detox" treatments underscores the importance of scientific literacy and critical appraisal of health information. Families seeking support for autism are encouraged to pursue interventions that have proven effectiveness rather than products claiming miraculous results without scientific validation. Awareness and education surrounding autism treatments are vital for ensuring the health and well-being of those affected by autism spectrum disorder.

Exploring the Benefits of Heavy Metal Detox: A Review of Touchstone Essentials’ Zeolite

Introduction

As concerns about heavy metal toxicity continue to rise within health and wellness circles, one woman’s personal journey offers insight into the world of heavy metal detoxification using Touchstone Essentials’ Zeolite. Miska Salemann, who previously dismissed detox trends as wellness fads, embarked on a 30-day detox experiment to assess their validity and efficacy.

The Rise of Heavy Metal Awareness

The discourse around heavy metal toxicity has gained momentum on social media platforms, particularly since 2020. Influencers have boasted about various detox methods, including detox smoothies and baths, leading many to question the safety of these metals. Influential figures in the wellness community, like Kourtney Kardashian, have shared their own detox experiences, amplifying public awareness. Kardashian revealed her battle with high mercury and lead levels, attributing her detox regimen to a medically supervised plan.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine supports the notion that exposure to heavy metals from various sources can harm the body. While trace amounts of metals can be essential for organ function, excessive levels pose severe health risks, including symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and a compromised immune system.

Miska Salemann’s Detox Journey

Encouraged by discussions with detox specialists, Salemann decided to explore heavy metal detoxification firsthand by using Touchstone Essentials’ liquid zeolite. The goal was to determine whether detoxing could lead to a healthier body or if it was merely another wellness trend lacking scientific backing.

Dr. Alicia Armitstead, an expert in integrative health, provided insight on the dangers of heavy metal poisoning and suggested that untreated exposure could result in serious health complications or death. She explained that various metals, including lead, mercury, and arsenic, can accumulate in the body, leading to a range of seemingly unrelated symptoms.

Understanding Heavy Metals and Their Risks

Heavy metal toxicity can manifest in numerous ways—headaches, skin rashes, and gastrointestinal issues, among others. The diagnosis of metal toxicity typically requires blood, urine, or hair analysis to measure the levels of heavy metals in the body.

To counteract these dangers, lifestyle changes such as improved diet and the use of detox supplements have become popular solutions. Dr. Armitstead emphasized the importance of employing high-quality detox supplements to help draw heavy metals from the body safely.

Selecting the Right Detox Supplement

Salemann ultimately chose the Touchstone Essentials Zeolite Detox Pack, a product known for its efficacy and trusted by healthcare professionals. The pack combines Pure Body—a liquid zeolite for gut detoxification—with Pure Body Extra, a nanosized zeolite that works at the cellular level to enhance detoxification.

She felt confident in her choice due to the product’s positive reviews, third-party testing, and its natural composition designed specifically for heavy metal detoxification.

The Detox Experience: 30 Days with the Zeolite Pack

Initially apprehensive about committing to a detox regimen, Salemann’s experience with the Zeolite Pack was surprisingly straightforward. The product required no complex preparation—just few tasteless drops and sprays throughout the day.

Diary of a Detox Participant

Day One: Upon waking early due to her toddler, Salemann noted no immediate changes in her energy levels, despite her morning routine’s challenges. Adding the zeolite to her coffee felt effortless, as the product’s tasteless nature integrated smoothly into her day.

As the days progressed, Salemann maintained a record of her experiences. Each day brought questions about whether she would notice any changes. The anticipation was palpable—would detoxification truly enhance her energy, and would she feel the promised benefits?

Conclusion

Salemann’s detox experiment with Touchstone Essentials’ Zeolite has not only shed light on the potential benefits of heavy metal detoxification but has also raised questions about the validity and scientific grounding of detox trends. As the public becomes increasingly aware of heavy metal exposure, it is vital to approach detoxification methods with a grounded understanding of what they entail.

In an era where wellness trends come and go, Salemann’s journey emphasizes the importance of informed choices, guided by science and expert opinions. For those contemplating a detox regimen, her experience serves as a reminder of the need for careful consideration and appropriate resources.

Recommendations

If you suspect you have heavy metal toxicity or are considering detoxification, consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Research thoroughly to choose high-quality products backed by scientific evidence and clinical trust.

Experts Warn Against Unproven "Autism Detox" Treatments

January 24, 2025 / CBS News
By Sara Moniuszko, Lifestyle & Wellness Reporter and Alexander Hunter, Producer

As misinformation about "autism detox treatments" proliferates online, health experts are raising alarms about the dangers and lack of scientific backing for these products. Marketed primarily to parents of children with autism, these treatments claim to reverse autism diagnoses by eliminating toxins and heavy metals from the bloodstream. However, reputable sources, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), are categorically rejecting these claims and highlighting the potential health risks involved.

The Science Behind the Claims

The foundational premise of many detox products is the supposed presence of heavy metals in the bodies of individuals with autism. Dr. Alycia Halladay, the chief science officer at the Autism Science Foundation, stated during a segment on "CBS Mornings Plus," "There is absolutely no science behind this… [It’s been] tested and disproven." She emphasized that there is no evidence to suggest that individuals with autism have higher levels of toxic metals, thereby invalidating the premise of these detox treatments.

Popular among these detox products is zeolite, a compound derived mainly from aluminum and silicon. This mineral, often found in forms such as tinctures and sprays, is advertised for its detoxifying properties. However, the FDA has specifically warned that these products lack approval for treating autism and has sent warning letters to various manufacturers for making baseless claims.

Health Risks Associated with Detox Treatments

Despite their popularity, detox products pose several health risks. Julie Landry, co-founder and board-certified clinical psychologist at NeuroSpark Health, highlighted serious side effects associated with chelation therapy—another detox method—such as kidney damage, dehydration, and even death. In fact, traditional chelation therapy has been linked to a tragic incident in 2005 when a five-year-old child died after undergoing the treatment intended for mercury removal.

Halladay also pointed out the financial burdens these products can create for families seeking help. "This is one of those things that popped up because— they can make money, right? So anytime somebody can make money off of families who potentially are vulnerable, it becomes a concern," she explained.

Zeolite: Uses and Risks

Though zeolite is utilized in various industrial applications—including detergents, water filtration, and air purifiers—its purported effectiveness for treating conditions such as autism remains unproven. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center states there are no published human data supporting the use of zeolites for this purpose. Furthermore, certain forms of zeolite can lead to severe health consequences, including lung cancer from inhalation.

The lack of scientific validation for such treatments is compounded by the fact that, unlike pharmaceuticals, many of these detox products do not require FDA approval before they can reach consumers.

Seeking Appropriate Support for Autism

Experts emphasize the importance of seeking scientifically-supported treatments and therapies for individuals on the autism spectrum. Landry suggested that support should focus on validating individual experiences, teaching self-advocacy skills, and engaging in collaborative assessments to develop personalized strategies.

While there are FDA-reviewed medication options available to manage symptoms such as aggression and irritability, behavioral interventions targeting communication and social skills are also critical. Many of these, Halladay noted, are endorsed by behavioral and autism organizations.

LaQuista Erinna, an autism advocate and therapist, underscores the importance of consulting a qualified medical professional before pursuing any treatments. "There is no cure for autism," she stated, emphasizing that a healthier lifestyle can contribute to better outcomes without resorting to unproven methods.

Conclusion

As misinformation about autism treatments continues to spread, health professionals urge families to remain vigilant against claims that lack scientific credibility. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to explore vetted therapies and support systems that affirm the value and uniqueness of individuals on the autism spectrum, rather than falling prey to unproven detox solutions.

For those exploring options, a commitment to informed decision-making and a reliance on reputable sources can enhance the well-being of autistic individuals and their families.