Jul 1, 2025 02:09pm

By Dwight Franklin

Under News

4 min read

Solving the Autism Puzzle: How The Franklin Family Wellness Institute Uses Functional and Eastern Medicine to Transform Lives

A Brain Health Detective's Guide to Uncovering Root Causes and Restoring Balance

As parents, watching your child struggle with autism can feel like navigating through a complex mystery with missing pieces. At The Franklin Family Wellness Institute, we approach each case like seasoned detectives, using our signature "Elementary Method" to uncover the root causes behind your child's challenges and create a personalized roadmap to wellness.

The Brain Health Detective's Approach: Understanding Autism Through a Holistic Lens

For over 14 years, I've been working with families affected by autism, combining the ancient wisdom of Traditional Eastern Medicine with cutting-edge Functional Medicine approaches. What sets our practice apart is that we don't just treat symptoms – we investigate the underlying imbalances that contribute to your child's unique presentation.

Think of autism not as a single condition, but as a complex puzzle with multiple interconnected pieces:

Brain chemistry imbalances
Gut health dysfunction
Immune system irregularities
Genetic variations
Environmental factors
Nutritional deficiencies

Our Investigation Process: The Elementary Method in Action

Phase 1: Gathering Evidence

Every great detective knows that solving a case starts with thorough investigation. During our comprehensive initial consultation, we spend a full hour understanding:

Your child's specific struggles and unique strengths
Family dynamics and how autism affects the entire household
Medical history and previous interventions
Daily routines, behaviors, and triggers

Phase 2: Advanced Diagnostic Testing

We partner with specialty functional medicine laboratories to conduct comprehensive testing that goes far beyond standard medical evaluations:

Brain Health Assessment:

Neurotransmitter testing to understand brain chemistry imbalances
Genetic analysis to identify variations affecting neurological function

Gut Health Investigation:

Comprehensive stool analysis to assess digestive function and the ability to absorb nutrients and eliminate harmful microbes
Food allergy and sensitivity testing to help us eliminate histamine and inflammation producing foods
Evaluation of the gut-brain connection. Beneficial Bacteria produce an enormous amount of neurotransmitters in the gut. What beneficial bacteria might your child be missing?

Immune System Analysis:

Assessment of immune dysfunction and inflammation markers
Identification of environmental triggers

Phase 3: Creating Your Personalized Treatment Plan

Based on our brain health detective work, we develop a customized wellness program that addresses your child's specific needs through five key areas:

Our Treatment Arsenal: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science

1. Functional Medicine Protocols

We address the root causes identified through testing:

Correcting neurotransmitter imbalances through individualized supplementation, food therapy, and lifestyle changes
Healing gut dysfunction
Supporting immune system regulation
Addressing genetic variations with targeted nutrients

2. Traditional Eastern Medicine

Drawing from thousands of years of healing wisdom:

Herbal Medicine: Custom liquid extracts and capsules designed to restore balance in every system of the body

3. Nutraceutical Supplementation

Targeted nutrients to support optimal brain function:

Amino acids such as L-tyrosine and L-theanine for neurotransmitter support
Essential minerals like magnesium for nervous system calming
Specialized nutrients based on genetic and neurotransmitter testing results

4. Customized Food Therapy

Food as medicine, tailored to your child's specific needs:

Elimination of inflammatory foods identified through testing
Introduction of brain-supporting, nutrient-rich foods done at a pace that your likely "picky" child will tolerate
Practical meal planning that works for your family

5. Family Life Coaching

Because autism affects the entire family:

Strategies for managing challenging behaviors
Communication techniques that work
Support for siblings and parents
Creating a harmonious home environment

Real Results: The Detective's Success Stories

Over the years, we've helped a great number of families transform their lives. While every child's journey is unique, common improvements we see include:

Improved focus and attention
Better communication skills
Improved cognition
Reduced anxiety and emotional outbursts
Enhanced social interactions
Better sleep patterns
Improved digestive health
Increased overall well-being for the entire family

Why Our Approach Works: The Power of Personalization

Unlike one-size-fits-all approaches, our Elementary Method recognizes that every child with autism is unique. What works for one child may not work for another, which is why our brain health detective approach is so crucial. We investigate, we test, we analyze, and then we create a plan that's as unique as your child.

Your Investigation Starts Here

If you're ready to solve your child's autism puzzle and discover the root causes behind their challenges, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Our comprehensive approach has helped families across Florida and around the world through both our in-office and online programs.

Ready to begin your investigation?

Contact The Franklin Family Wellness Institute today:

Phone: (407) 755-3135
Location: 587 East State Road 434, Suite 3011, Longwood, FL 32750
Website: www.myffwi.com

Remember, every great mystery can be solved with the right detective work. Let us help you uncover the clues to your child's optimal health and happiness.

Much Love to Your Family,

Dwight Franklin, MSOM, AP (a.k.a. The Brain Health Detective)