Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects communication, behavior, and social interaction. Over recent decades, there has been a notable increase in the incidence of autism worldwide. While greater awareness account for some of this rise, this can not account for all the cases. Below, we explore some potential contributors to the increasing prevalence of autism, supported by scientific findings where available.
1. Prenatal and Early Childhood Nutrition
Nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood plays a crucial role in brain development. Deficiencies or imbalances in certain nutrients may increase the risk of ASD. For example: Folic acid, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin B's are also important for brain development. This is why there is an emphasis on supplementing pregnant mothers with folic acid during pregnancy. Some children however have genetic defects making them unable to activate certain B vitamins (MTHFR gene defects). .
2. Dietary Exposures in Early Life
Dietary factors in early childhood, including exposure to certain chemicals or food additives, may also influence the likelihood of developing ASD. These include the exposure to artificial food additives (Hertz-Picciotto et al., 2011), environmental pollutants such as heavy metals (Lead, mercury and aluminium), pesticides and air pollution.
The consumption of hydrogenated fats during early childhood has been linked to potential impacts on neurodevelopment. As the brain is composed of approximately 70% fat, the quality of dietary fats plays a crucial role in its development. While infant formula is designed to meet the nutritional needs of young children, it often contains a combination of milk and hydrogenated vegetable fats. This hydrogenated (altered) fat raises concerns about the effects of such fats on neural growth and cognitive function. Scientific research suggests that the type and quality of fats consumed during early development can influence brain function, including memory, learning abilities, and overall cognitive health. Studies have shown that diets high in trans fats, commonly found in hydrogenated fats, may interfere with essential processes such as neuronal signalling and synaptic plasticity, potentially leading to long-term developmental concerns (Albert et al., 2015; Lauritzen et al., 2014).
With declining interest in breast feeding, could this be the missing piece of information to explain the rise in autism diagnosis?
3. Gut Microbiome and Autism
The gut-brain axis has garnered attention for its role in ASD. Dysbiosis—an imbalance in gut microbiota—has been observed in many children with autism. Factors contributing to gut microbiota imbalances include:
Diet: High intake of processed foods and low dietary fiber may negatively affect gut health. Gluten and dairy products may also be implicated in some cases.
Antibiotic Use: Overuse of antibiotics in early life can disrupt the gut microbiome, potentially influencing neurodevelopment (Hertz-Picciotto et al., 2011).
4. Air Pollution and environmental toxins:
Air pollution:
It is known that in some highly polluted cities there are high rates of autism. Alzheimer-like changes have been found post-mortem in children and young adults in polluted cities in Mexico. In the UK, autism is higher around incinerators and oil refineries. Other studies have noted poor cognitive development in children in polluted areas.
Air pollution allows large numbers of ultrafine particulate into the body through the lungs and these end up in the brain and other organs. Because children breath more air relative to their body size they are more at risk. Outdoor pollution is difficult to control but indoor pollution is often higher than outdoor pollution and here we do have some control. So it makes sense to avoid aerosols, sprays, candles, scented products and air fresheners. Paints can be a problem but low VOC paints are available. Basically be suspicious of anything with a strong smell. Consider an air purifier.
The aluminium connection:
Research indicates that individuals with ASD have significantly higher levels of aluminium in their bodies compared to those without autism. Studies have found that the brains of autistic individuals contain three to five times more aluminium, with evidence suggesting a link to aluminium adjuvants commonly used in vaccines. Aluminium adjuvants are vaccine ingredients that help the body produce a stronger immune response to the vaccine. They have been used in vaccines since the 1930s. Furthermore, hair sample analyses show that aluminium levels in autistic individuals are 90% higher than average. A study conducted in China also demonstrated that exposure to these adjuvants could induce autism-like behavior in laboratory animals.
There is a notable correlation between aluminium exposure in children and the prevalence of ASD across seven Western countries. Countries like the UK and USA, where children receive significantly higher aluminium doses early in life, report nearly ten times the incidence of ASD compared to Iceland and Finland. In these Scandinavian countries, children receive about a quarter of the aluminium exposure compared to the UK and USA, and vaccinations are typically delayed until after three months of age (doi: 10.1016/j.jinorgbio.2011.08.008. Epub 2011 Aug 23).
It is therefore prudent to minimize exposure to common aluminium sources, such as: Aluminium cookware, cans, and foil, coffee makers with aluminium piping, Antiperspirants, certain shampoos. Vaccines, tobacco, tattoos, colorants, antacids, and pharmaceuticals like levothyroxine are also a source of aluminium.
By addressing aluminium exposure, individuals and families may reduce the risks associated with excessive aluminium in the body, offering a potentially significant impact on conditions like autism.
5. Exposure to Wireless Radiation (Wi-Fi and 5G)
As wireless technology becomes increasingly pervasive, concerns have arisen about its potential impact on neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism. While research in this area is still emerging, some findings suggest:
Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs): Prolonged exposure to EMFs from Wi-Fi routers, mobile phones, and other wireless devices may influence brain development by causing oxidative stress, inflammation, or disruption of cellular processes (Redmayne, 2016).
Detoxification Impairment: EMF exposure may interfere with the body’s ability to detoxify heavy metals. This occurs through its impact on calcium channels and oxidative stress, which can impair the detoxification pathways essential for clearing neurotoxic substances such as mercury and lead (Pall, 2015).
5G Networks: The rollout of 5G technology has raised additional questions about the effects of higher-frequency radiation on human health. Some researchers hypothesize that the increased density of wireless signals could exacerbate potential risks, though conclusive evidence is lacking (Redmayne, 2016).
More studies are needed to establish a definitive link between wireless radiation and autism risk. However, precautionary measures such as limiting exposure to EMFs during pregnancy and early childhood may be advisable. Protecting children from excessive EMF exposure involves implementing practical strategies in daily life. Here are some steps parents can take:
Limit Device Use:Â Encourage limited and supervised use of Wi-Fi-enabled devices such as tablets, laptops, and smartphones.
Use Wired Connections:Â Replace Wi-Fi with wired internet connections when possible, especially in bedrooms or play areas.
Turn Off Devices at Night:Â Power down Wi-Fi routers and unplug electronic devices at night to minimize EMF exposure during sleep.
EMF-Blocking Devices:Â Consider using EMF-blocking phone cases, laptop shields, or other protective gear.
EMF-Resistant Clothing:Â Invest in protective clothing made from EMF-resistant fabrics, particularly for pregnant women and young children.
House Modifications:Â Install shielding paint, curtains, or window films designed to block EMF penetration from outside sources.
Safe Placement of Devices:Â Keep Wi-Fi routers and other emitting devices away from high-traffic areas or places where children spend significant time.
6. Mould Exposure and Autism
Mould exposure has been increasingly considered as a potential environmental factor in autism development. Moulds produce mycotoxins, which can be harmful to human health and particularly to the developing brain. Some possible mechanisms include:
Neurotoxicity:Â Mycotoxins, such as those produced by black mould, can cause inflammation and oxidative stress, which may interfere with normal brain development (Straus, 2011).
Immune Dysregulation:Â Chronic exposure to mould can disrupt immune function, potentially exacerbating neuroinflammation linked to autism (Hertz-Picciotto et al., 2011).
While more research is required to establish a causal relationship, parents and caregivers may consider assessing and mitigating mould exposure in living environments, particularly during pregnancy and early childhood.
7. Melatonin deficiency
Melatonin, a hormone primarily known for regulating sleep-wake cycles, has been increasingly studied for its role in autism. Many children with ASD exhibit sleep disturbances, and melatonin dysregulation may contribute to this. Some key insights include:
Sleep-Wake Regulation:Â Melatonin helps regulate circadian rhythms. Dysregulated melatonin production has been observed in individuals with autism, potentially exacerbating sleep problems and impacting overall development (Rossignol & Frye, 2011).
Antioxidant Properties:Â Melatonin also functions as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the brain from oxidative stress, which is frequently elevated in children with autism (Rossignol & Frye, 2011).
Gut-Melatonin Link: The majority of melatonin is produced in the gut, and gut dysbiosis—common in children with ASD—may impair its synthesis, contributing to both gastrointestinal and neurodevelopmental symptoms.
Supplementation with melatonin has been shown to improve sleep quality and duration in many children with ASD. However, its broader effects on behaviour and cognitive function remain an area of active research.
The Rise in Autism Among Immigrants
Children from ethnic immigrant families in the West have a higher risk of autism compared to locals, potentially due to a combination of unique exposures and stressors. Factors that might be particularly significant include:
Nutritional Deficiencies: Immigrant families may experience dietary shifts upon migration, moving away from traditional diets rich in essential nutrients to Western-style diets that are often lower in omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and other neurodevelopmental nutrients. Limited access to culturally familiar foods or socioeconomic barriers may exacerbate these deficiencies.
Vitamin D Deficiency: Immigrants, especially those from regions with high melanin levels or predominantly sunny climates, are at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency in the West due to reduced sun exposure in colder or less sunny regions.
Environmental Pollutants: Immigrant families often live in urban areas with higher exposure to air pollution and industrial toxins like heavy metals and pesticides, increasing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders in children.
Gut Health: Dietary changes and potential antibiotic overuse in Western healthcare systems might contribute to gut microbiome dysbiosis in immigrant populations, influencing autism risk.
EMF Exposure: Immigrant families may have less awareness or access to protective measures against electromagnetic radiation from Wi-Fi and devices, increasing exposure.
Mould Exposure: Immigrants living in lower-income housing are more likely to encounter poor housing conditions, including mould, which has been linked to neurotoxic and immune system effects that could contribute to autism risk.
To reduce these risks, public health initiatives should focus on culturally sensitive nutritional education, improving access to traditional foods, and creating awareness of environmental hazards, including mould and EMF exposure.
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