Children are one third of our population and all of our future.
~Select Panel for the Promotion of Child Health, 1981
~Select Panel for the Promotion of Child Health, 1981
Hopefully, my last health blog that dealt with the history and symptoms of autism was both interesting and informative. Today, I will stray from mental health issues, as I would like to continue my discussion of autism by letting you in on some of the underlying reasons for this modern day "epidemic". As in many illnesses, there is
not just one cause, but several. The medical community, however, has accepted the fact that autism is caused by abnormalities in the structure of the brain or the way that it functions. Interestingly, if you were to look at the brain of a normal individual v.s the autistic persons brain, you would see that the shapes and structures are different.
Those in the medical field are looking into many theories that include a link between genetics, heredity and medical issues. It has
been found that in some families, there seems to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities that indicate a genetic basis. Research is looking into the possibility that there may be atypical pieces of the genetic code that autistic children have inherited. Recent discoveries in "two areas of the genome, states that a region on chromosome 1 is suspected of having links to autism, and aberrations in a brain-development gene called neuroxin 1"may indicate that there is, in fact a gene responsible for this illness." If this gene can be isolated, perhaps a cure will be developed.
not just one cause, but several. The medical community, however, has accepted the fact that autism is caused by abnormalities in the structure of the brain or the way that it functions. Interestingly, if you were to look at the brain of a normal individual v.s the autistic persons brain, you would see that the shapes and structures are different. Those in the medical field are looking into many theories that include a link between genetics, heredity and medical issues. It has
been found that in some families, there seems to be a pattern of autism or related disabilities that indicate a genetic basis. Research is looking into the possibility that there may be atypical pieces of the genetic code that autistic children have inherited. Recent discoveries in "two areas of the genome, states that a region on chromosome 1 is suspected of having links to autism, and aberrations in a brain-development gene called neuroxin 1"may indicate that there is, in fact a gene responsible for this illness." If this gene can be isolated, perhaps a cure will be developed.In addition to heredity, there are other "triggers" that may be precipitate this disorder such as problems in pregnancy and birth, viral infections, environmental, chemical or pollutant exposure, and allergies to some foods like gluten or dairy products).
Research has also suggested that autism may be a reaction to childhood vaccines, which contain a slew of toxic chemicals including mercury. Many experts are aware of the fact that the immune system of a newborn is not yet developed, so when they are given a vaccine which is meant to stimulate it, it does no good. Thus introducing more toxins than the baby's fragile system can deal with. This toxin build up in their cells prevents their brain from proper functioning, and may lead to autism. Make sure that you know all the facts before vaccinating your little one so that you can make a wise decision.
Recent studies have shown that Lyme Disease may cause autism in 20% of those infected. Interestingly, it has infected fetuses and babies, who have had no exposure to deer ticks indicating that it is transmitted from mother to child. This occurs because contact with the bacteria at such an early age allows it to go right to the brain where the toxins are produced. About 40% of the time, these toxins get stuck in the brain depleting it of a beneficial protein called "glutathione," which is found in every cell and is the body's "cellular detoxifier", cleansing the blood, lungs and liver. In addition to destroying viral infections that attack the cells , it is also one of our most important antioxidants. Once glutathione is used up, it cannot be replaced, this prevents the brain from ridding itself of chemicals, heavy metals and toxins that disrupt normal functioning thus leading to autism. In 60% of the cases there may be an auto-immune response against the brain caused by Lyme Disease. One way to deal with this is to turn off the auto-immune reaction, strengthen the immune system response to the bacterium, therefore allowing the cells to get healthier in order to detoxify adequately and fight infection.
Have you ever wondered why autistic children engage in activities such as spinning, head beating and repetitive mannerisms? According to one article, it is a subconscious attempt by the child to overload his/her sensory system so that it
shuts down and pain is alleviated. This excruciating pain is caused from brain damage. When the brain doesn't function properly, the nerves are impaired. Our nerves are surrounded and protected by myelin sheaths that are compromised by our auto-immune response that develops as the system unsuccessfully tries to attack the bacteria or viruses. The consequence of myelin sheath damage is pain. It is very sad to see innocent children suffering for no reason, and there are ways, which I will tell you about in another blog that can help to improve this condition.
shuts down and pain is alleviated. This excruciating pain is caused from brain damage. When the brain doesn't function properly, the nerves are impaired. Our nerves are surrounded and protected by myelin sheaths that are compromised by our auto-immune response that develops as the system unsuccessfully tries to attack the bacteria or viruses. The consequence of myelin sheath damage is pain. It is very sad to see innocent children suffering for no reason, and there are ways, which I will tell you about in another blog that can help to improve this condition.Please note that none of this information is inclusive and more research needs to be done. However, there is hope for those suffering from autism. You may look into alternative medical practices, or go to your allopathic family physician for assistance whenever you need it.
Stay tuned for my next blog which will deal with ways to diagnose autism.
