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Exposure to Specific Toxins and Nutrients During Late Pregnancy and Early Life Correlate With Autism Risk

  • June 05, 2017

A new study using evidence found in baby teeth indicates that exposure to certain toxins and essential elements during late pregnancy and in a baby’s first weeks of life may increase the risk of a child developing autism, Waxra reports. Researchers looked specifically at the significance of lead, zinc and manganese in determining ASD severity and autistic traits.

It’s been known for some time that environmental exposures are significant factors that can contribute to the development of ASD and other developmental delays. From poor air and water quality, to pesticides, flame retardants and volatile organic compounds found in a range of products, including furniture, we are constantly bombarded with dangerous toxins that not only can harm us, but unborn babies.

The food we eat is another problem. Stephanie Seneff, Ph.D., is convinced part of the autism problem is related to the fact that virtually everyone is eating processed foods and/or foods contaminated with glyphosate-based pesticides like Roundup, both of which are extremely detrimental to your microbiome. Glyphosate also negatively impacts the mitochondria, so it really delivers a double whammy.

While there is no drug or quick-fix formula for treating autism, there are many safe, gentle treatment options, including dietary changes and eliminating toxic exposures that can help. Discontinuing the overuse of antibiotics and concentrating on keeping the gut microbiome healthy are two good starts.

When I was treating autistic patients, I typically saw enormous improvements when we restricted sugars, grains, fruit juices and fruits — all sources of net carbs (total carbohydrates minus fiber) that disturb the gut microbiome, increase pathogenic yeast, fungi and viruses, and wreak havoc with the mitochondrial fuel structure.