Sleep is a fundamental function for everyone, especially for children. So when a child doesn't sleep well, it affects the whole family. And it's important to remember that we don't struggle with sleep to annoy someone or make life difficult; there are usually many other reasons.

Children with autism or other neurodevelopmental conditions may face various challenges such as anxiety, stress throughout the day and evening, hormonal disbalance and fluctuations that affect levels of dopamine, serotonin, cortisol and melatonin, bedroom environment, the food they eat on a day, and so on. In this article, we will look closely at some of these factors, especially toxins, and their impact on sleep quality.

Therefore, we need to learn to recognise the symptoms and signs and understand their meaning. Otherwise, we could never provide targeted assistance until we clearly understand why the child is having trouble falling asleep and what is bothering them.

WHAT'S GOING ON DURING THE SLEEP

During sleep, our body undergoes detoxification, and the brain cells shrink by 60 per cent to facilitate a unique mechanism for cleansing debris. This process is integrated into our body's detoxification system when we wake up.

Throughout the night, our bodies work tirelessly to eliminate toxins. However, when a child goes without a bowel movement for one, two, or even seven days, their toxicity levels can skyrocket, leading to significant discomfort. This is a particularly pressing issue as both children and adults are exposed to environments with high levels of toxins.

For instance, many children, especially those with dental problems, may struggle with their detoxification systems, which often don't function at full capacity. As a result, the body attempts to purge toxins from the brain and body during the night.

If the body is overwhelmed with toxins or the liver or digestive system is not functioning properly, the toxins can accumulate and spread throughout the body. This can lead to disruptions in sleep, such as nightmares, and the child may struggle to stay asleep due to internal discomfort.

Therefore, maintaining a healthy detoxification system is not only crucial for overall health but also for promoting restful sleep, particularly in individuals with autism.

WHY DOES A CHILD SWEAT DURING THE NIGHT

Sweating is part of the detoxification process. When traditional detox pathways, such as the digestive system and liver, cannot  cope with the amount of toxins or are partially blocked, sweating becomes another way for the body to eliminate toxins through the skin. The skin is a significant detoxification organ, which is why sweating occurs. Therefore, if your child sweats a lot at night, it indicates a need to address their toxicity levels.

HOW DOES THE ENVIRONMENT AFFECT A CHILD WITH AUTISM

Very often, children are a little anxious or even afraid to stay in their own environment. So, we need to understand what needs to be corrected in their internal world. It is a form of non-drug ADHD treatment. The child may be very stressed or anxious, and the room environment may not be conducive to relaxation.

It could be the lighting, especially blue light, as we have photoreceptors throughout our bodies. Or it might be some noise or sound coming from outside. It could be that the environment is too "busy" with toys and other clutter that stimulates the brain and doesn't allow it to "slow down". It could even be electromagnetic vibrations, such as Wi-Fi signals, causing headaches and discomfort.

Sometimes, we need to realise that our children will react much faster and more sensitively to these factors. So, it's essential to assess the environment carefully because many of these small factors add up, and children with autism and ADHD are already very stressed. These additional factors can be easily and quickly addressed but, if overlooked, can impact their state of alertness caused by discomfort. As a result, they may seek comfort from their parents because they feel more secure.

WHAT CAN BE DONE TO IMPROVE A CHILD'S SLEEP RIGHT NOW

Nighttime is crucial for growth, detoxification, and boosting adaptation mechanisms for stress, among other functions. Therefore, keeping a diary and taking notes on your child's sleeping patterns and behaviours is advisable, similar to how you would track different aspects of their health.

Maintaining a diary is often used in ABA therapy, speech therapy, and other neurodevelopmental therapies. It is fundamental for parents of children with developmental, behavioural, or health concerns, as it allows them to identify patterns and changes over time.

For example, some children may experience restlessness during full moon nights, which could indicate the presence of worms or parasites, as these microorganisms may be more active during this period. Such observations provide valuable insights into the child's microbiome and may inform potential treatments or support strategies. By documenting these signs and symptoms, you can better discuss them with healthcare professionals and collaborate on designing an effective support protocol.

Establishing a predictable and regular evening routine is also a part of the OT treatment for autism, and children often thrive on routines. You can implement measures to prepare a child for better sleep in the evening. Simple practices like a salt bath and a calming massage with lavender essential oil can help the child relax.

Additionally, ensure the ambience in their room is conducive to sleep – it should be clean, with fresh air, no strong smells, minimal noise, and a quiet environment tailored to your child's sensitivity. Keeping electronics and toys away from the child's bedroom and turning off Wi-Fi at night would be beneficial. Pay attention to blue light exposure, subtle vibrations, and noises. Consider the type of pyjamas the child wears, as certain fabrics, labels, or stitching may irritate their skin. It's essential to address these little details for optimal sleep hygiene.

WHEN SHOULD YOU CONSULT MEDICAL DOCTORS

If a child struggles to sleep, experiences nightmares tosses around, or seems anxious, addressing their toxicity level is crucial. Gentle detox during the day may be a good starting point, along with clinical tests such as a heavy metal test to assess toxin levels.

Functional medicine doctors who usually don't provide ADHD or autism medical diagnosis can order these tests, as they have access to such diagnostics. Unlike normal GPs, they are more accustomed to utilizing specialized tests for personalized treatment plans. Nutritional professionals often work with top labs globally, allowing you to easily book tests online, receive a kit at your doorstep, collect samples, and send them for analysis. These tests provide valuable, personalized information to pinpoint the underlying issues affecting your child's health.

Another important test to consider is a stool test, which can reveal imbalances in the gut microbiome. Conditions such as worms, parasites, yeast overgrowth like candida, or an imbalance in harmful bacteria can contribute to toxin accumulation. Candida alone can produce around 170 toxins, making it crucial to address gut health.

CONCLUSION

A step-by-step approach, starting with gentle interventions, can significantly improve your child's sleep quality and overall well-being. It may seem daunting, but with commitment and patience, positive changes are achievable. Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance and explore further options, including addressing sleep issues with Neurodiversity Specialised Sleep Consultants, Nutritionists, OTs, or (if your child is still undiagnosed) private autism assessments to address your child's needs effectively.

Remember, as a parent, you know your child best. By observing, tuning in, and taking action, you can significantly improve their health and sleep patterns. Prioritize restful nights for both you and your child, as this will set the foundation for a brighter, healthier tomorrow.