The Total Load Theory of Autism
'Total Load Theory is a concept from engineering that explains why, as a heavy truck travels over a bridge, the structure collapses. Who or what is to blame? The truck driver? The trucking company? The engineer who designed the bridge? The weather? The ship captain whose tanker bumped into the mooring endless times? Obviously, not any of them is a single cause, even though each stressor contributed to the outcome. An accumulation of dozens of stressors caused the bridge to collapse. Today this engineering theory applies to autism.
The Total Load Theory of autism brings together many possible etiologies: biological, environmental, immunological, neurological, psychological, and toxicological. As these and other stressors mount, they cause sensory, motor, language, social-emotional, and other systems to collapse.
Today, scientists realise that not just autism but many diseases are a result of 'Total Load', and in 2013 they gave it a name: 'exposome'. Exposome is defined as the measure of all the exposures of an individual in a lifetime and how those exposures relate to health. An individual's exposure begins before birth and includes insults from environmental and occupational sources. The exposome is understanding how exposures from our environment, diet, lifestyle, etc interact with our own unique characteristics such as genetics, physiology and epigenetics impact our health.
Total Load Theory posits that genetically vulnerable immune systems eventually become exhausted from continuous efforts to ward off repeated assaults from the environment.
The bodies of children with autism are in survival mode, putting all of their energy into just staying alive. Gradually - as the physical body becomes overwhelmed, the brain is affected. Cognitive and/ behavioural problems appear; reactions to foods, pollens, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals accelerate; and wheezing, croup, and breathing problems worsen into asthma in some cases. This internal survival state could appear outwardly as distraction, hyperactivity, or lack of responsiveness ie 'autism'.
Patricia Lemer - 'Outsmarting Autism'
One way to help our kids, is to be aware of the toxins that we can control within their environment. Our world has become increasingly toxic and our children's body's are unable to cope with the sheer level of toxins they are presented with daily. See below for some of the main toxins, where they can be found, their impact on health, and how to avoid / reduce exposure.
Please do remember that achieving a completely toxin free life is impossible, but having the knowledge can help you to navigate better choices and reduce the ones that are within your control. Stress is also toxic, do what is within your control. Any small change is better than none.
Toxins you should be aware of...
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA stands for bisphenol A. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s.
These plastics are often used in containers that store food and beverages, such as water bottles. BPA is an endocrine disruptor. An endocrine disruptor is a chemical that can interfere with endocrine (or hormonal) system. These disruptions can cause cancerous tumours, birth defects, and other developmental disorders that can impact neurological function.
It can be found in:
- Plastics intended to be in direct contact with food, including plastic food packaging, bottles and kitchenware
- Inner coatings of cans and jar caps - to keep the metal from corroding and breaking
- Dental materials and healthcare equipment
- Thermal receipt paper
- Some toys
- Plastic baby items such as teethers, soothers and bottles
- Plastic plates
- CDs and DVDs
- Feminine hygiene products
BPA in packaging, plates, bottles etc can migrate into the food or liquid it contains. High heat or extreme cold (i.e. microwaves, dishwashers, or freezers or even hot food) can cause BPA to leech faster.
Health concerns;
' Even low doses of BPA can trigger major neurological adverse changes when exposure occurs during critical developmental stages'
- Neurodevelopmental disorders
- Female and male infertility
- BPA is an endocrine disrupting chemical, meaning it can interfere with hormone levels and hormonal communication
- Impacts estrogen receptors
- BPA causes inflammation
- Ovarian and breast diseases such as cancer
- Early puberty
- Even at low doses, BPA induces the impairment of insulin and glucagon secretion and adipose cell function triggering an insulin resistant state - so has been linked to the development of type 2 diabetes
How to avoid;
- Use plastic free children's and baby items
- Many BPA-free products have merely been replaced with bisphenol-S (BPS) or bisphenol-F (BPF) - these compounds are as harmful. So looking for BPA free labels isn't a sufficient course of action in avoiding the toxicity
- Opt for glass or stainless steel containers for liquids and foods
- Ask for virtual receipts
- Never heat or freeze plastics containing food if you do use - avoid putting them in the dishwasher or microwave - this will reduce but not eliminate exposure
- If a product isn't labeled - some plastics marked with recycle codes 3 or 7 may be made with BPA
Phthalates
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates) are a common class of chemicals used in consumer products. They are one of the fragrance ingredients used as carriers in self care and household products to help make the scents linger.
They are also used to make plastic more flexible. Pthalates are endocrine disruptors that can impact brain development, and growth rates.
They can be found in:
- Hair spray
- Deodorant
- Nail polish
- Lipstick
- Perfumes
- Aftershave lotions
- Soaps
- Shampoos
- Perfumes, and other fragrance preparations
- Lotions, creams and sunscreens
They are also used to make plastic more flexible in products like;
- Toys
- Vinyl flooring
- Wall covering
- Vinyl mattress covers
- Shower curtains
- Plastic food packaging
- Medical devices and pharmaceuticals
- Solvents or dissolving agents in things like detergents and lubricating oils.
Because these chemicals are not tightly bound to the other molecules in the plastic, they can often migrate away from and find their way into our bodies.
Health concerns;
Hundreds of studies show that phthalates can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system. In pregnant women, phthalates pass through the placenta to be absorbed by the fetus. Later they show up in breast milk of nursing mothers, whose babies ingest them. Patricia Lemer - 'Outsmarting Autism'
- Birth defects
- It also appears that widespread disruptions in hippocampal functional and structural plasticity occur following developmental (pre-, peri- and post-natal) exposure to phthalates
- Endocrine disruption (both developmental and reproductive toxicity)
- In females exposure can affect thyroid levels and alter thyroid function
- Phthalates have been linked with obesity, reduced female fertility, preterm birth and low birthweight
- A worsening of allergy and asthma symptoms, and altered toddler behaviour
- Many phthalates are hormone-disrupting chemicals that interfere with the production of the male sex hormone, testosterone, which is necessary for proper development and function of the male reproductive organs. Interference with testosterone activity, especially early in life, can have irreversible effects on male reproduction.
How to avoid;
- Read labels - and avoid anything with 'fragrance' listed. This probably contains phthalates
- Read labels on nail polishes and avoid ones that list DBP as an ingredient.
- Reduce your use of plastics
- Try to eat less food packaged in plastics, as exposure occurs from drinking and eating foods that have been in contact with containers and products containing phthalates
- Never microwave plastic, as high heat allows chemicals to leach from the plastic into the food or liquid inside
- Avoid anything with ingredients DHEP or DiBP - these are other names for pthalates
Triclosan
Bisphenol A (BPA)
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Teflon
Triclosan is an ingredient added to many consumer products intended to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination.
Triclosan is an endocrine disruptor, that impacts immune function and has been linked to cancer.
It can be found in:
- Antibacterial soaps and body washes
- Toothpastes
- Cosmetics
- Clothing
- Kitchenware
- Furniture
- Toys
- Mattresses
When introduced to the market in 1972, triclosan was confined to hospital and health care settings. Since then triclosan exploded onto the market place in hundreds of consumer products ranging from antibacterial soaps, deodorants, toothpastes, cosmetics, fabrics, toys, and other household and personal care products. Triclosan’s success on the consumer market has been aided by the false public perception that antibacterial products are best to protect and safeguard against potential harmful bacteria. However, an article in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases, entitled "Consumer Antibacterial Soaps: Effective or Just Risky?" (2007), concludes that antibacterial soaps show no health benefits over plain soaps.
Health concerns;
- Recent studies have found that Triclosan interferes with the body’s thyroid hormone metabolism
- Endocrine disruptor
- Children exposed repeatedly to antibacterial compounds such as triclosan at an early age have an increased chance of developing allergies, asthma and eczema
- Skin and eye irritant
- Linked to an increased risk of breast cancer
- There are also concerns about Triclosan and its link with dioxin, which is highly carcinogenic and can cause health problems as severe as weakening of the immune system, decreased fertility, miscarriage, birth defects, and cancer
- Triclosan has been shown to contribute to the rise of “superbugs,” which are bacteria and viruses that have become resistant to antimicrobials and antibacterials
How to avoid;
- Read all labels, and avoid triclosan and triclocarban
- Wash hands with plain soap and water - for 20 seconds is recommended
- Try to avoid products with labels such as “antimicrobial,” “odour fighting,” “germ-killing,” or “antibacterial” - these likely contain triclosan
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Teflon
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Teflon
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Teflon
Perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs), including perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), are stain, water and grease repellent chemicals found in a wide range of consumer products.
They stick around in the body and accumulate, causing damage. Exposure to PFCs is known to cause abnormal thyroid hormone levels, inflammation of the liver, and weakening of the immune system
They can be found in;
- Food packaging, such as microwave popcorn bags and fast food wrappers
- Non-stick cookware - teflon
- Outdoor gear with a “durable water repellent” coating
- Building materials
- Aerospace, medical, and automotive applications
- Many speciality items such as firefighting foams, ski wax, and industrial applications
- PFCs are in cleaning and personal-care products like shampoo, cosmetics such as eye shadows, dental floss, and denture cleaners
'Recent research has identified the immune system as sensitive to PFCs in both laboratory and epidemiological studies. A 2012 study of 587 children found those with greater exposure to PFCs had significantly poorer responses to vaccines'
Health concerns;
- Harming the immune system
- Kidney and testicular cancer
- Obesity
- Liver toxicity
- Reduced birth weight
- Birth defects
- Ulcerative colitis
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia
How to avoid;
- Avoid purchasing or limit use of products containing PFCs - anything labelled non-stick, waterproof, stain resistant and water resistant
- Avoid fast food wrappers - Stay away from greasy or oily packaged and fast foods, as the packages often contain grease-repellent coatings made with PFC Examples include microwave popcorn bags and fast food packaging such as pizza and burgers.
- Avoid stain-resistance treatments. Choose furniture and carpets that aren’t marketed as “stain-resistant,” and don’t apply finishing treatments such as Stainmaster® to these or other items. Where possible, choose alternatives to clothing that has been treated for water or stain resistance, such as outerwear and sportswear. Other products that may be treated include shoes, luggage, and camping and sporting equipment.
- Avoid personal-care products made with Teflon or containing ingredients that include the words ”fluoro” or ”perfluoro.”
- Avoid Teflon or non-stick cookware. If you choose to continue using non-stick cookware, be very careful not to let it heat to above 450ºF. Do not leave non-stick cookware unattended on the stove, or use non-stick cookware in hot ovens or grills. Do not leave the pan to preheat on the stove. PFCs are released more readily at higher temperatures.
- Discard products if non-stick coatings show signs of deterioration
- Stainless steel, ceramic or cast iron are safer options
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Teflon
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs) are flame retardants that have been used in hundreds of every day products since the 1970s.
The earliest flame retardants, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), were banned in the UK and US when it was discovered that they were toxic carcinogens (cancer causing). Because of their durability, PCBs still remain in our environment - in soil and water.
After PCBs were banned, industries switched to using polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) instead. PDBEs are structurally the same, and have the same health impacts as PCBs. PDBEs are known endocrine disruptors and impact intelligence, IQ, sensory and motor skills. They have been shown to damage important pathways within the brain and have been linked to hyperactivity in children.
They can be found in;
- Children's sleepwear
- Matresses
- Furniture
- Computers
- TV sets
- Car parts
- Plastics for computers and other electronics
- Stain proofing for textiles
Health concerns;
- Minute doses of PBDEs can cause deficits in sensory and motor skills, verbal memory and attention
- Endocrine disruption
- Lower IQ
- Hyperactivity
- Altered sexual development
- Altered neuro-development
- Fertility issues
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Cancer
- Worsening symptoms of allergies such as asthma and dermatitis
How to avoid;
- Choose PBDE-free electronics and furniture
- Avoid contact with decaying or crumbling foam that might contain fire retardants. This includes older vehicle seats, upholstered furniture, foam mattress pads, carpet padding, and toys made of foam.
- Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter vacuum cleaner
- Replace couches, stuffed chairs, car seats that might have exposed foam. If you can't afford to replace them, cover them with sturdy cloth and vacuum around them frequently.
- Do not reupholster your older foam furniture, especially in homes where children or pregnant women live.
- Be careful when removing or replacing old carpet, since PBDEs are found in the foam padding beneath carpets. Isolate the work area with plastics and avoid tracking construction dust into the rest of your house. Pull out a HEPA vacuum to clean up when you're finished
- Buy products made with natural fibers (like cotton and wool) that are naturally fire resistant and may contain fewer chemicals.
NOTE: Atimony is commonly used in flame retardants and is usually high in children with autism
Herbicides/Pesticides
Perfluorinated Chemicals (PFCs) Teflon
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (PBDEs)
Herbicides are weed-killers, most of which contain the active ingredient glyphosphate (Roundup).
Glyphosate is a non-selective herbicide; it can be applied to the foliage of any plant, resulting in its death.
Glyphosate is used on many food crops such as oats, wheat and corn to control weeds. One of the keys to making glyphosate so successful was the introduction of genetically modified “Roundup Ready” crops in 1996. These crops were genetically modified to make them resistant to glyphosate, so farmers could use Roundup throughout the growing process without it killing their crops.
In addition, it is used by land owners, such as councils, to control weeds in our towns and cities. It is used in our parks, playgrounds, schools and on our pavements and verges. It is also readily available in many supermarkets and garden centres as an easy tool for gardeners at home and on allotments.
Glyphosate has been linked to the development of autism, increases the risk of leaky gut by killing beneficial microbes in the gut and has also been linked to cancer.
They can be found in;
- Oat cereals and oatmeal
- Granola bars
- Orange juice
- Crisps
- Crackers
- Almonds
- Carrots
- Quinoa
- Soy products
- Vegetable oil
- Wine
- Beer
- Some breads
- As a contaminant in digestive enzymes trypsin, pepsin and lipase
- Tap water
- Glyphosate can be absorbed through the skin and respiratory pathways
Health concerns;
- Carcinogen
- Glyphosate is an antimicrobial agent that preferentially kills beneficial microbes - allowing pathogens to flourish in the gut leading to overgrowth and inflammatory/leaky gut syndrome
- Increased risk of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis
- Interferes with function of cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes
- Chelates important minerals (iron, cobalt, manganese, etc.)
- Interferes with synthesis of amino acids and methionine
- Leads to shortages in critical neurotransmitters and folate
- Disrupts sulfate synthesis and sulfate transport
- Leads to disrupted bile flow and impaired fat digestion
- Molybdenum sulfite oxidase is an enzyme primarily responsible for the conversion of sulfite to sulfate - excess sulfite in the body can result in various forms of neurodegeneration Chelation of molybdenum by glyphosate makes it unavailable to carry out this task and there is a build up of sulfite SEE PAGE ON sulfation
How to avoid;
- Go organic - this reduces but does eliminate exposure
- Eat probiotic rich foods such as sauerkraut, apple cider vinegar, kombucha and kimchi. These foods contain acetobacter - microbes that can metabolise glyphosate
- Increase sulfur levels via sulphur rich foods and epsom salt baths (be careful with CBS gene mutations - see SNPs section)
- Filter your water with a reverse osmosis system LINK HERE for the one we use
Heavy Metals
What are heavy metals?
Heavy metals are dense metallic or semi-metallic elements found naturally in the soil that can leach into our environment. There are also man made sources. They are (usually) toxic at low concentrations.
Heavy metals have a synergistic adverse impact within the body. Ie their combined effect will have a greater bearing on toxic load than the sum of their separate effects. Even when the toxicity of the individual element is quite low, when combined with others within the body, the toxicity of certain metals is amplified hugely.
Heavy metal toxicity should be of huge interest to anyone who has a child with autism. Why? There is an abundance of research correlating heavy metal toxicity with neuro-developmental disorders, autism and the higher the toxicity the more severe the symptoms.
I have linked several studies below on this topic, that you might find interesting. You will find information on some of the most common and problematic heavy metals listed below too (I'll keep adding to this). Please try not to find this overwhelming, and remember that you will never be entirely toxin free. You just have to do what is within your control.
The research is here in abundance for us and yet as parents we are still being led down a pathway of genetics and/ or life long disability, with no hope for healing. Just knowing this information has helped us greatly and I hope it can be of use to you too.
Common toxic metals...
Tin
Arsenic
Arsenic
Tin is a soft, white, silvery metal that is insoluble in water. Research has shown that elevated tin is correlated with an ASD diagnosis
Sources of tin;
- Dental amalgams
- Tap water
- Cosmetics
- Toothpastes
- Soaps
- Preservatives
- Food additives/ dyes
- Food and beverage containers - canned foods
- Pewter, bronze and anti-corossive platings
- Plastic pipes
- Pesticides
- Paints
- Wood preservatives
- Rat and mice repellants
- Some seafood
Health concerns:
- Skin irritation
- Eye irritation
- Gastro-intestinal issues
- Muscle weakness
- Anemia
- Reduced sense of smell
- Headaches
- Affects energy metabolism and can stall brain function by interfering with neurotransmitters
How to avoid:
- Avoid toothpastes/ cosmetics with the ingredient 'stannous fluoride' - this is a tin compound
- Avoid canned foods, or acidic canned foods at the very least. The acidity breaks down the protective layer between the food and the tin - leaching tin into the food
- Opt for wild instead of farmed seafood
- Filter water with a system that will filter out metals - LINK HERE for the one we use
Arsenic
Arsenic
Arsenic
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that is widely distributed in the Earth’s crust. It is found in water, air, food, and soil. It is also classed as a heavy metal that is neurotoxic - (toxic to the nerves or nervous tissue ie the brain). Studies have shown that arsenic exposure adversely impacts neurological function in children. Arsenic can be found in foods, including rice and some fish and chicken, where it is present due to uptake from soil and water. It can also enter the body by breathing dust containing arsenic, or through the skin, though this is not a major route of exposure.
Sources of arsenic;
- Rice
- Processed gluten free substitutes made up predominantly with rice flour
- Fruit juices - especially when the pips get juiced
- Dairy free milks which use rice to bulk out the ingredients
- Tap water
- Insecticides
- Cigarettes
- Chicken's who ingest arsenic in their feed
Health concerns:
- Arsenic is a known as a group 1 carcinogen associated with skin, lung, bladder, kidney, and liver cancer.4
- Children are at risk for lowered IQ, behavioural problems (such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, type 2 diabetes
- Skin lesions
- In utero and early exposure has been linked to negative impacts on cognitive development and increased deaths in young adults
How to avoid/ reduce:
- Limit rice consumption - use a variety of other grains / psuedo grains such as millet, buckwheat and quinoa
- Cook rice in high volumes of water - ratios of 6:1 can reduce arsenic by up to 45%
- Soak rice overnight - place into a large bowl cover with water - rinse - drain. This has been shown to decrease arsenic by up to 80%
- Avoid/limit processed GF substitutes made up of rice flour
- Filter water with a system that will filter out metals - LINK HERE for the one we use
- Make your own fresh juices / limit shop bought / dilute heavily
- Source organic produce for heavily sprayed foods - click Pesticides Action Network For 'The Dirty Dozen' UK
- Or here for the Environmental Working Group 'The Dirty Dozen' USA
- Make your own nut milk - or source shop bought without rice as an ingredient - click HERE for the brand I like
Lead
Arsenic
Antimony
Lead is a toxic metal whose widespread use has caused extensive environmental contamination and health problems in many parts of the world. No lead blood level is deemed as safe and children are impacted much more severely. Lead can damage a developing baby’s nervous system. Even low-level lead exposures in developing babies have been found to affect behaviour and intelligence. Neurological effects and mental retardation have also occurred in children whose parents may have job-related lead exposure - Lead can cross the placental barrier, which means pregnant women who are exposed to lead also expose their unborn child. The body absorbs higher levels of lead when it is breathed-in.
Sources of lead;
- Some paints
- Tap water
- Children's jewellery and toys
- Some ceramics
- People exposed to lead at work may bring lead home on their clothes, shoes, hair, or skin. Some jobs that expose people to lead include: home improvement; painting and refinishing; car or radiator repair; plumbing; construction; welding and cutting; electronics; municipal waste incineration; lead compound manufacturing; manufacturing of rubber products, batteries, and plastics; lead smelting and refining; working in brass or bronze foundries; demolition; and working with scrap metal
- Some cosmetics
Health concerns:
- Anemia
- Brain damage
- Kidney damage
- Lead exposure in utero can damage a developing baby’s nervous system
- Even low-level lead exposures in developing babies have been found to affect behavior and intelligence
- Lead exposure can cause miscarriage, stillbirths, and infertility (in both men and women)
- Health effects are found even at low blood lead levels
- Effects may include diminished IQ scores and academic achievement, and increased behavioral problems and attention-related behaviors such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
- Higher lead levels are associated with increases in behavioral effects, delays in puberty, and decreases in hearing, cognitive performance, and postnatal growth or height
How to avoid:
- Inspect and maintain all painted surfaces to prevent paint deterioration
- Address water damage quickly and completely
- Keep your home clean and dust-free - as lead particles from furnishings can peel
- Clean around painted areas where friction can generate dust, such as doors, windows, and drawers. Wipe these areas with a wet sponge or rag to remove paint chips or dust
- Use only cold water to prepare food and drinks
- Flush water outlets used for drinking or food preparation
- Clean debris out of outlet screens or faucet aerators on a regular basis
- Wash children's hands, bottles, pacifiers and toys often
- Teach children to remove their shoes and wash hands after playing outdoors
Antimony
Aluminium
Antimony
See PDBEs above
Aluminium
Aluminium
Aluminium
Aluminium is found in the earth's crust.
It is associated with the increased prevalence of Alzheimer's and is often elevated in children with autism. It is known as a neurotoxin (toxic to the nerves or nervous tissue ie the brain).
Sources of aluminium;
- Use as an adjuvant in vaccines (adjuvants help evoke an immune response) aluminium's toxicity is exacerbated by the presence of mercury (also used in some vaccines)
- Antacid medications
- Aluminium foil
- Aluminium cookware
- Anti-diarroeah medications
- Deodorants
- Dentures
- Lipstick
- Hemorrhoid preparations
- Processed cheese
- Nasal sprays
- Cans
'Aluminum (Al), the most commonly used vaccine adjuvant, is a demonstrated neurotoxin and a strong immune stimulator. Hence, adjuvant Al has the potential to induce neuroimmune disorders. When assessing adjuvant toxicity in children, two key points ought to be considered: (i) children should not be viewed as "small adults" as their unique physiology makes them much more vulnerable to toxic insults; and (ii) if exposure to Al from only few vaccines can lead to cognitive impairment and autoimmunity in adults, is it unreasonable to question whether the current pediatric schedules, often containing 18 Al adjuvanted vaccines, are safe for children? ' Source
Health concerns:
- Impaired iron absorption
- One of the unique risks associated with aluminum adjuvants is an extreme autoimmune or inflammatory response. The symptoms of which include chronic fatigue, muscle and joint pain, sleep disturbances, cognitive impairment and skin rashes Source
- Al is a recognised neurotoxin, which causes neurodegeneration - (the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including death of neurons - brain cells). Many neurodegenerative diseases – including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease – occur as a result of neurodegenerative processes
- Al affects in excess of 200 important biological reactions and causes negative effects on the central nervous system. Among these reactions affected by Al, there are mechanisms effective on brain development, such as neurotransmitter synthesis, synaptic transmission (brain cell communication), gene expression, peroxidation (which is a crucial step in the development of several disease states in adult and infant patients)
- It has also been suggested that Al can cause mitochondrial dysfunction and depletion of adenine-triphosphate (ATP). Source
How to avoid/reduce:
- Some research suggests that drinking silica rich mineral water can reduce aluminium in the body
- Avoid take away cartons that are made with aluminium
- Use unbleached parchment in place of aluminium foil
- Switch to cast iron or stainless steel cookware
- Opt for aluminium free self care
- Choose aluminium free baking powder
- Filter water with a system that will filter out metals - LINK HERE for the one we use
- Avoid processed cheeses - opt for raw organic instead
- Do your own research on vaccines - read the inserts and make your own decision as to whether you feel the benefits outweigh the risks
Mercury
Mercury a highly toxic heavy metal that exists in three forms: methylmercury, elemental mercury, and other mercury compounds (both organic and inorganic). The form most often found in the home is elemental mercury, methylmercury is found is fish, dental amalgams and vaccines.
It is often elevated in children with autism - the more severe the toxicity, the more severe the symptoms. Julie Matthews Nourishing Hope
Main sources of mercury;
- Vaccines contain 'trace amounts' - children can receive several vaccines in one go which increases the toxicity. The flu vaccine still contains appreciable amounts of mercury. The toxicity of thimerosal is increased in the presence of aluminium and testosterone. Aluminium is used alongside mercury as an adjuvent in vaccines. The impacts of testosterone could be why we see more boys diagnosed and the severity of autism generally more profound in males
- Fish and seafood - especially large fish such as; tuna and swordfish, tilefish, shark and king mackerel
- Batteries
- Appliances such as; chest freezers, space heaters, clothes dryers, clothes irons and washing machines may contain mercury switches that turn the device on or off, or turn a light on or off. Gas-fired appliances, including ovens, water heaters, furnaces, poll heaters.
- Light bulbs
- Barometers
- Thermometers
- Dental amalgam
- LCD screens and monitors. It is also used in laptop screen shutoffs
- Thermostats
- Mercury can also be used as a preservative or antibacterial agent -- in a number of over-the-counter and prescription pharmaceutical products. These include: antibiotics, blood pressure cuffs, contact lens solution, diuretics, ear and eye drops, eye ointment, hemorrhoid ointment and nasal spray
- Tap water
- Fertilisers
- Air pollution - coal burning and gold mining, are currently the main sources of mercury being released into our environment
Health concerns;
'Those diagnosed with mercury poisoning and autism share these characteristics..'
- Arm flapping
- Oversensitive to sound and touch
- Failure to develop speech
- Poor eye contact
- Decreased muscle tone and sleeping difficulties
'Mercury causes severe damage to the brain and other body systems. It also damages the biochemical process that would normally aid its detoxification. This causes a 'double whammy' effect (so often seen in ASD), allowing for the build up of these toxins while disabling the systems that could help to eliminate it'
'Mercury exposure has such wide-ranging and disruptive powers that it certainly can be powerful enough to kickstart a downward cascadeof biochemical and physiological problems that can lead someone into autism.'
Julie matthews
Other health concerns..
- Emotional instability
- Cognitive dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Nerve damage
- Immune system damage
- Thimerosal (mercury found in vaccines) inhibits an enzyme required to break down gluten and casein
- Skin rashes and dermatitis
- Mood swings
- Memory loss
- Mental disturbances
- Muscle weakness
- "Pins and needles" feelings, usually in the hands, feet, and around the mouth
- Lack of coordination of movements
- Impairment of speech, hearing, walking
- Infants in the womb can be exposed to methylmercury when their mothers eat fish and shellfish or receive vaccines that contain methylmercury. This exposure can adversely affect unborn infants' growing brains and nervous systems
- Pregnant women who eat fish high in mercury on a regular basis run the risk of permanently damaging their developing fetuses. Children born to these mothers may exhibit motor difficulties, sensory problems and cognitive deficits. Source
How to avoid/ reduce;
- If eating fish - choose smaller fish;
Think 'SMASH'
S salmon, scallop, shrimp, sole
M mullet, mackerel
A anchovies
S sardines, skate, smelt, squid
H haddock, hake
- Do your own research on vaccines and make choices based on your own child. Read the inserts - you can ask your doctor for these. Ask questions. We are all unique and have different thresholds of health and toxin tolerance. Remember that autism is an array of symptoms brought on by an overload of environmental insults and that there are alternative ways to boost immune function. This book is a good place to start
- The species of good bacteria known as Lactobacillus, which is present in the human mouth and gut as well as fermented foods, has the ability to bind and detoxify some heavy metals. Source
- Choose to buy and use products that are mercury-free. Many mercury-free alternatives are readily available
- Speak to your dentist about having silver and amalgam dental fillings containing mercury removed, and replaced with safer alternatives
- Avoid buying self care products containing mercury
Sources and Research for Further Reading....
Glyphosphate
- S. Seneff, N.J. Causton, G.L. Nigh, G. Koenig and D. Avalon. “Can glyphosate’s disruption of the gut microbiome and induction of sulfate deficiency explain the epidemic in gout and associated diseases in the industrialized world?” Journal of Biological Physics and Chemistry 2017; 17: 53-76. (Download)
- Anthony Samsel and Stephanie Seneff, “Glyphosate’s Suppression of Cytochrome P450 Enzymes and Amino Acid Biosynthesis by the Gut Microbiome: Pathways to Modern Diseases” Entropy 2013, 15(4), 1416-1463; doi:10.3390/e15041416 (Download)
- Stephanie Seneff, Nancy Swanson and Chen Li. “Aluminum and Glyphosate Can Synergistically Induce Pineal Gland Pathology: Connection to Gut Dysbiosis and Neurological Disease.” Agricultural Sciences2015; 6: 42-70. (Download)
- Glyphosphate and Autism: An indisputable Link and a Path Towards Healing Click here for full presentation from the Autism One Conference in 2019
- Pesticides Action Network Website https://www.pan-uk.org/glyphosate/
- Glyphosphate's side effects on humans https://www.periscopegroup.com/roundup/glyphosate-side-effects-toxicity
- Exposure to glyphosphate-based herbicides and risk for non-Hodgkin lymphoma: A meta-analysis and supporting evidence - This study published in 2019 concluded that exposure to glyphosate increased the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma by 41% https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1383574218300887
Phthalates, Triclosan, PDBEs, PFCs, BPA
BPA;
- Health Risk of Exposure to BPA https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25813067/
- Neurological Effects of Bisphenol A and its Analogues https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4661290/
- Timing of Exposure and Bisphenol-A: Implications for diabetes development https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30429829/
- Urinary Bisphenols and Obesity Prevelance Among U.S. Children and Adolescents https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/3/9/1715/5537531
- Endocrine Disruptors and Childhood Social Impairment - Article discussing the positive correlation with pthalate/BPA exposure and autistic behaviours https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3057338/
TRICLOSAN;
- Triclosan exposure and allergic sensitisation in Norwegian children https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23146048/
PDBEs;
- Brominated flame retardants and endocrine disruption https://www.researchgate.net/publication/216691893_Brominated_flame_retardants_and_endocrine_disruption
- Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether (PDBE) Flame Retardants and Thyroid Hormone during Pregnancy - Study showing exposure to PBDEs and lower TSH during pregnancy, which may have implications for maternal health and fetal development. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2957927/
- Prenatal Exposure to Organohalogens, Including Brominated Flame Retardants, Influences Motor, Cognitive, and Behavioural Performance at School Age - Authors demonstrated for the first time that transplacental transfer of polybrominated flame retardants was associated with the development of children at school age - including verbal memory and intelligence https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2799472/
- Current-Use Flame Retardants:Maternal Exposure and Neurodevelopment in Cildren of the CHAMACOS cohort https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6353563/
- The influence of low level pre-and perinatal exposure to PCDD/Fs, PCBs, and lead on attention performance and attention-related behaviour among German school-aged children: results from the Duisburg Birth Cohort Study - This study concluded that ADHD-related behaviour rose as exposure to lead increased after experts looked at the blood levels of lead and other contaminants in pregnant mothers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25456149/
- The Dangers of Brominated Fire Retardants https://www.nachi.org/brominated-fire-retardant-dangers.htm
- Pre-natal Exposure to PDBEs and Neuro-development - Results from this study showed that children who had higher cord blood concentrations of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) scored lower on tests of mental and motor development at 1–4 and 6 years of age. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2866690/
- Low levels of common flame-retardant chemical damages brain cells - This study offers a possible pathway by which PDBEs lead to autism https://health.ucdavis.edu/welcome/features/2012-2013/02/20130227_flame-retardants.html
PFCs/TEFLON;
- Teflon info https://wellnessmama.com/77396/ditch-the-teflon/
PTHALATES;
- Endocrine Disruptors and Childhood Social Impairment - Article discussing the positive correlation with pthalate/BPA exposure and autistic behaviours https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3057338/
- Pthalate Exposure Linked to ADHD in Teens https://www.medpagetoday.com/publichealthpolicy/environmentalhealth/88320
- Environmental exposure to phthalates and dementia with Lewy bodies: contribution of metabolomics https://jnnp.bmj.com/content/91/9/968
- Environmental pthalate exposure and preterm birth in the PROTECT birth cohort https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412019313868
- Environmental phthalate exposure in relation to reproductive outcomes and other health endpoints in humans https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0013935108001862
Heavy Metals
- My friend Ashley has written a compilation of the latest research - Heavy Metals in Relation to Autism https://www.thespectrummother.com/heavy-metals-in-relation-to-autism/
- Aluminium in Brain Tissue in Autism https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0946672X17308763
- Infants are uniquely vulnerable to aluminium in vaccines - by Professor Chris Exley https://www.hippocraticpost.com/paediatrics/infants-are-uniquely-vulnerable-to-aluminium-in-vaccines/
- Also see his website here
- Autism spectrum disorder prevalence and proximity to industrial facilities releasing arsenic, lead or mercury - Researchers looking at prenatal and perinatal exposures to air pollutants (ie, arsenic, lead, mercury) and autism spectrum disorder prevalence. They found that autism prevalence was higher in areas closest to the offending industries than those furthest away. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4721249/
- Postnatal arsenic exposure and attention impairment in school children - The results from this study provide evidence that postnatal arsenic exposure impairs neurological function in children. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0010945215000271?via%3Dihub
- The relationship between mercury and autism: A comprehensive review and discussion - This review found that mercury exposure is causal and/or contributory in ASD https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0946672X16300931
- Toxic Metals and Essential Elements in Hair and Severity of Symptoms among Children with Autism - Study supporting the theory that heavy metals play a role in the development of ASD https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3484795/
- Metal ions affecting the hematological system - Article discussing how tin and other metals impact health https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21473380/
- Effects of aluminum on the central nervous system. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3056430/table/tab1/
- The influence of low level pre-and perinatal exposure to PCDD/Fs, PCBs, and lead on attention performance and attention-related behaviour among German school-aged children: results from the Duisburg Birth Cohort Study - This study concluded that ADHD-related behavior rose as exposure to lead increased after experts looked at the blood levels of lead and other contaminants in pregnant mothers https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25456149/
- Deficits on psychological and classroom performance of children with elevated dentine lead https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/763299/
- A possible central mechanism in autism spectrum disorders, Part 3:The role of excitotoxin food additives and the synergistic effects of other environmental toxins (such as heavy metals) http://www.encognitive.com/files/A%20POSSIBLE%20CENTRAL%20MECHANISM%20IN%20AUTISM%20SPECTRUM%20DISORDERS.pdf
Toxins General..
- Neurobehavioural effects of developmental toxicity - Fabulous study regarding the impact of toxins on neuro-development https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4418502/
- https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/8d53/960daf01b4a6eb30e9f25fd7d67d974ff2eb.pdf