Autism is a complex neurological condition that varies in severity, impacting communication, forming relationships, behavior, motor skills, thought processes, sensory experiences, and more. Autism rates have been increasing, with the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control estimating that one in fifty children may have an autism spectrum disorder. Improved diagnosis cannot singularly account for this increase in numbers.
Given the complexity and growing prevalence of autism, understanding the causes behind it becomes critical. There could be multiple causes, including genetics and the environment. A recent study shows that people with autism are more likely to be missing specific genes, carrying only one copy of a particular gene when they should have two. This absence of certain genes may be responsible for altered brain activity characteristic of this condition.
Various researchers theorize that autism could be the result of interactions between an individual’s genes and their environment. A growing body of research is pointing to environmental toxins as a potential culprit. Compounds found in pesticides, flame retardants, and other common chemicals can impact neurons, brain development, DNA and gene expression.
Impact of Common Chemicals on Autism Development
One of the most concerning aspects of autism is the role common chemicals may play in its development. A study from the University of California, Davis showed how a flame retardant chemical called BDE-49 damages neural mitochondria, the cellular power plant of neurons. Autism is thought to result from abnormal brain development, and this loss of neural energy may be a crucial factor.
Interestingly, California has a higher rate of autism than many other States. This situation might be due to California’s strict fire safety code, which encourages the use of fire retardants. Consequently, toxic fire-retardant compounds like BDE-49 are commonly found in various items, including sofas and car seats.
Genetics and the Environment: Their Role in Autism
Another study analyzing the genes of 50 genetically identical twins found that some of the pairs of twins had autism in only one twin. The autistic subjects had multiple epigenetic differences compared to their non-autistic siblings, despite having identical genes.
Epigenetics refers to the influence of factors outside the cell nucleus that communicates information from the external environment and the individual’s internal chemistry. These signals influence which genes are activated or deactivated, making genetic expression and behavior a constantly changing phenomenon, rather than something fixed by our genetic destiny.
These differences in the autistic twin’s individual gene activity suggest that signals from the environment may influence the development of autism. However, the good news is that epigenetics can also be altered beneficially.
Heavy Metals as Potential Autism Triggers
Heavy metals like mercury, lead, and cadmium may be potential environmental triggers for autism, as they have definite impacts on neural development. A recent study at Arizona State University found a significantly higher heavy metal load in autistic children. Even more troubling, children with higher concentrations of these toxins had more severe autism.
Some researchers have suggested links between autism and childhood vaccines, many of which contain mercury. Furthermore, research indicates that many autistic children have inherited genetic alterations that reduce their ability to detoxify chemicals and heavy metals, which results in an accumulation of toxins with detrimental effects.
The Role of Diet in Autism Symptoms
Diet could also play a role in the severity of autism symptoms. Studies have found significant changes in the digestive function of autistic patients, such as specific immune and inflammatory reactions in the gut after eating certain foods. Wheat and gluten products may trigger a unique immune response that produces symptoms associated with autism. Other problematic foods for autism include dairy products, sugar, artificial sweeteners such as aspartame, and processed foods.
Precautionary Measures for Environmental Toxins
Although the relationship between environmental toxins and autism is not entirely clear, growing research supports this possibility, and it’s critical to minimize exposure to harmful compounds. By eating organic produce, researching household items with less hazardous chemicals, and being more aware of potential toxin exposure, everyone can minimize the detrimental effects of toxins.
Regular, seasonal detoxification and a healthy, nutrient-dense diet are critical for maintaining long-term health and may make a difference for those struggling with autism and related complications. However, any detoxification program for someone with autism should be undertaken under the guidance of an experienced healthcare practitioner who is knowledgeable about working with this sensitive population.
