Can Autism Be Prevented?

The prevalence of autism has skyrocketed in the last decade. Current incidence is one in every 150- children, and almost one in every 94- boys.

New research indicates that 30% of autism diagnoses stem from environmental factors —a shocking revelation that suggests one third of incidents may be prevented by avoiding certain toxins.

Read on to learn what scientists have recently discovered. We routinely urge our patients and practice members to familiarize themselves with the latest research findings because of the significant division of opinion as controversial as this topic is. Also, the alternatives they have to replace typical store-bought commercial household products containing formaldehyde, DEET, artificial sweeteners, and food preservatives, etc., which are found in highly processed food, cleaners, solvents, liquid soaps, lotion and sunscreen products —with those which offer a nontoxic, and environmentally friendly alternative that are safer, better, and less expensive than name brand commercial products… and many times conveniently delivered to your door.

Autism Basics

Autism impairs a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. This affliction is associated with rigid routines, repetitive behaviors, and deficits in language and social communication skills. Diagnosis is usually by the age three, yet newer guidelines are recognizing diagnostic criteria of delayed development or progress as young as six months old. Usually it’s a child's parents or their daycare providers who are the first to notice unusual behaviors... or the lack thereof.

Suspected Causes

Autism has no known single cause. The disorder comes from certain abnormalities found in specific parts of the brain. Brain scans of autistic children show different shapes and structures in some parts of the brain compared with children with normally expected brain development and behavior. In certain brain locations, nerve cells appear smaller than normal. These neurons have stunted connections to other brain regions and connections if at all.

Abounding Controversy

It's not very clear why so many more children are being diagnosed in recent years than ever before. One argument is that broader diagnostic criteria and improved awareness among parents, educators and health-care providers account for the increased recognition of the signs and symptoms of this condition. These factors may play a significant role in the number of identified cases. However there has not been a marked increase in the diagnosis of autism among older people whose disorder might have been misdiagnosed or overlooked in childhood. This fact, among others, has led researchers to investigate environmental triggers, because exposure to them has increased exponentially in the past several decades. In fact, over 4- million new chemicals have been introduced to mankind in different commercial and industrial processes since 1965.

The Immune System's Role

Our conservative approach focuses on the fundamental basis of prevention and elimination emphasizing the link between the nervous system and the immune system.
This is because the immune system is an intricate network of interdependence between cells, nerves, substances, and organs that collectively protect the body from disease —and most importantly a healthy intestinal flora. The developing immune system is highly vulnerable to disruption, especially during the fetal and infant stages of growth. We now know how even a small disruption at a critical stage of development may have lifelong consequences.
For instance, studies suggest that immune dysfunction may be a contributing factor to the development of autism (Journal of Toxological Environmental Health B Critical Review 2008; 11:660-80).

How About Those Pesticides and Household Cleaners?

Some scientists argue that environmental contaminants, which are more prevalent, now than in previous decades, may be responsible for the sharp rise in autism rates.

A new study in the medical journal Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine indicates there is an environment of trigger for autism among genetically vulnerable children. The findings suggest that 30% or more of autism diagnoses may be related to environmental factors.

This investigation looked at the rates of autism from counties in California, Oregon and Washington. The incidence of this disorder appeared higher in areas with greater rainfall, especially for children who resided in the same location prior to the age of three.
The researchers theorize several possible environmental triggers related to higher levels of annual precipitation and increased amount of time spent indoors. Speculation includes sustained early childhood television and video exposure, vitamin D deficiencies, and exposure to chemicals and household cleaners.

The authors conclude, "These results are consistent with the existence of an environmental trigger for autism among genetically vulnerable children that is positively associated with precipitation. Further studies focused on establishing whether such a trigger exists in identifying the specific trigger are warranted," (Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine 2008; 162:1 thousand 26-34).

Mercury and Heavy Metals

Heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, may be associated with autism and have a contributory affect as well. Lead exposure may come from the ingestion of lead based paint in older homes, or some toys and other items with lead based coatings where the manufacturing process is not well monitored and inspection or testing is not adequate.

As a chiropractic doctor I typically warn patients to be wary of the amount of mercury in their diets, especially during pregnancy and nursing. Certain fish such a shark, swordfish, King Mackerel, tilefish and tuna have exceedingly harmful levels of ethyl mercury. When scientists examined blood and urine samples from 28- autistic children, they detected high levels of mercury, compared to youngsters with normal brain development.

Similarly, children with severe autism had "significantly increased" levels of mercury, compared with those with mild cases of autism. In addition, the autistic children had “significantly decreased” levels of glutathione compared to their control subjects.

Glutathione is a sulphur containing amino acid important for Phase II liver detoxification whereby the sulphur molecule helps to bind heavy metals and other toxic residues making them water soluble and more easily excreted from the body in the urine and bile. Cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, etc.) are a good source of natural sulphur compounds for the liver. It works as an antioxidant, keeping in check the destructive process of oxidative stress caused by environmental toxins (J Neurol Sci 2008; epub).

Conversely, consumption of non-tainted fish high in omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy and nursing is linked to higher IQ scores among children.

Is There a Genetic Predisposition ?

Genetic experts argue that some children have a genetic predisposition to autism, which increases their susceptibility to environmental triggers. Scientists have identified genes linked to the condition, but lack complete understanding of the entire set of related genes. Although one gene has been singled out, researchers are searching for irregular segments in the genetic code that autistic children may have inherited. In many families, there is a pattern of autism or related disabilities, further supporting a genetic basis for their vulnerability.

Implicating Vaccines

Research linking autism to vaccines is conflicting. Thimerosal, a common preservative in vaccines is 49% ethyl mercury, (the same found in some fish) and was removed from childhood vaccinations and 2001. However some flu vaccines may still contain thimerosal.

Prenatal Infections

Research suggests that maternal infections during pregnancy may be related to a child's later development of autism.

The immune system reacts to infection by producing many different molecules, and one particular group is known as cytokines. These simply stated are inflammatory proteins, which control and direct immunity, inflammation and the formation of blood. New research suggests when cytokines appear in high doses during pregnancy, even briefly, an infant may develop altered behavior later on.

In one study, researchers gave pregnant mice a particular cytokine on day 12½ of the pregnancy. The result was the developing offspring emerged with significantly altered brain changes. In another experiment, the researchers blocked these particular cytokine molecules, and by doing so, altered the detrimental effects upon the fetuses’ brains seen in the previous study (Journal of Neuroscience 2007; 27:10695-702).

Medications

During pregnancy, risks for long-term consequences to the fetus are especially high. Certain medications taken during pregnancy may cause the child to later develop autism, or autistic like tendencies. For example, research shows that taking the epilepsy drug valproate during pregnancy significantly increases the child's risk for this condition. This new finding appears in the December 2008 issue of the medical journal Neurology.

The analysis included 632- children with no known family history of autism. While pregnant, approximately one half of the mothers took an epilepsy drug: 64 took valproate, 44 took Iamotrigine, 76 took carbamazepine, and 65 took other epilepsy drugs. Researchers performed tests at one, three and six years of age. Out of the 632- children in the study, nine were diagnosed with autism, and one child exhibited autistic symptoms.

Seven of these autistic children had mothers who took an epilepsy drug while pregnant, five of whom were exposed to valproate. Fetuses exposed to valproate had seven times the risk for developing the disorder, compared to those not exposed to epilepsy drugs (Neurology 2008; epub).

Based on the above findings, it’s crucial to avoid all unnecessary medication during pregnancy whenever possible. Chiropractic care helps expectant mothers to do just that.

C’mon Talk To Us…

With the startling rate of diagnosis, we understand parents’ and grandparents’ concern about the rate autism today. We strive to keep our practice members informed with the latest research on topics like this. You should feel free to share your questions about any health challenges affecting your family with your health care provider. We sincerely believe that many diseases can be improved — or even prevented — a with a healthy lifestyle, rooted in proper nutrition, restricted amounts of unhealthy facts, adequate exercise and hydration, the limitation of physical and emotional stress, the wise selection and use of personal and other household products, along with periodic chiropractic care.

Make it a good day...

LNM

Chiropractic Orthopedic Group

Preventing Nut Allergies

The Latest Research on Preventing Nut Allergies

The prevalence of food allergies appears to be on the rise, and researchers currently don’t know why. Scientists estimate that approximately 12- million Americans suffer from food allergies of one kind or another. And, as most parents of young children know only too well, more and more children are becoming diagnosed with nut allergies. In fact, peanut allergies doubled in children over a recent five-year period 1997-2002.

There's very little conclusive scientific data explaining the cause of this increasing frequency. The research can be confusing, and at times even contradictory. Therefore in this post I’d like to summarize the latest research about nut allergies in a straightforward and contemporary context.

So, What's a Food Allergy Anyway?

When someone has a food allergy, his or her immune system mistakenly believes the particular food is harmful, and creates specific antibodies against it. If this individual eats that food, the immune system releases powerful chemicals, including histamine, to protect the body. These chemicals trigger allergic symptoms that can affect the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, skin and cardiovascular system. Airway restriction, thickening of mucous membranes, rapid heartbeat, diarrhea, vomiting, and skin rashes are common.).

Food allergies can also prompt anaphylaxis. The Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Network define anaphylaxis as a serious allergic reaction that is rapid in its onset and may cause death. Food allergy is believed to be the leading cause of anaphylaxis outside the hospital setting, accounting for an estimated 50,000 emergency room department visits each year, (Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 2008; Epub).

Strict avoidance of food allergens and early recognition and management of allergic reactions are vital to preventing serious health consequences.

For individuals with serious allergic conditions, early administration of epinephrine (adrenaline), which is available by prescription in a self-injectable device, is crucial to successfully treating medical emergencies caused by anaphylactic reactions.

What is clear is that the immune system plays a key role in preventing food allergies. In our practice we routinely focus on what is called "patient centered care" and deliberately educate our practice members that the chiropractic lifestyle, a way of living that includes regular chiropractic care, exercise, nutrition and other preventative measures is instrumental in maintaining optimal immune function.

What Causes Nut Allergies?

The only proven risk factors for nut allergy or atopic dermatitis (eczema) is a family history of food allergies. Theories are numerous and widespread often times anecdotal. Some of the more popular ones are:

• Roasted peanuts: One hypothesis claims roasted peanuts (a common practice in United States) produces higher levels of sensitivity compared to boiling peanuts, a common practice in other countries.


• Hygiene hypothesis: A second theory is what is known as the “hygiene hypothesis." This theory states that because in the modern, “ more hygienic” world, young children are not exposed to infectious agents as often as they did before, and their immune systems are left without sufficient burden, and less than robust —not conditioning them to ward off potentially harmful inflictions naturally. As a result, peanut protein is often targeted by the body's immune system as harmful.


• Maternal nut consumption: A third possibility is that pregnant and nursing women who eat peanuts can pass peanut proteins onto their fetus through the placenta, and newborn infants through breast-feeding, which in turn boosts the risk of allergy.

Despite all these theories, there is actually very little conclusive scientific evidence regarding the origins of the allergies. Below I have compiled the highlights of the latest scientific research results concerning this dilemma, and the sometimes tragic impact it can have on families.

When to Introduce Nuts

Previous research suggested that early introduction of peanuts into a child's diet led to a peanut allergy. In fact, a 1999 study concluded: "It [peanut allergy] is more likely to occur if mothers eat peanuts more frequently during pregnancy and introduce it early into the infant’s diet." (Pediatric Allergy Immunology 1999; 10:27-32.)

However, a 2008 study found that early introduction of peanuts into the diet may actually decrease the risk of developing a peanut allergy. The study looked at Jewish schoolchildren in the United Kingdom and Israel finding that Jewish children in the UK are 10- times more likely to have an allergy than Jewish children can Israel. This difference is not accounted for by differences in activity, social class, genetic background or a tendency toward peanut sensitivity and allergy sometimes referred to as allergenicity.

Noted in this study though, Israeli infants consume peanuts in high quantities during their first year of life, whereas infants in the UK the forbearance of peanut consumption is common. The researchers concluded: "These findings raise the question of whether early introduction of peanut during infancy, rather than avoidance, will prevent the development of a nut allergy. Additional studies on the affect of early introduction of peanut on allergies are now being conducted." (Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 2008; 122:948-91).

Note: Never introduce any food into your baby’s diet without first consulting with your child's health care practitioner.

Eating Nuts While Pregnant

The research into the effects of maternal nut consumption during pregnancy has also been confusing and contradictory. One 2008 study found that daily nut consumption during pregnancy increased the risk of the baby having asthma. The researchers asked 4,146 pregnant women about the consumption of fruit, vegetables, fish, egg, milk, milk products, nuts and nut products. The researchers then followed their children until eight years of age.

Daily consumption of nut products increased the risk of childhood wheeze. The researchers concluded: “Results of the study indicate an increased risk of daily versus rare consumption of nut products during pregnancy on childhood asthma outcomes. These findings need to be replicated by other studies before dietary advice can be given to pregnant women. " (American Journal of Respiratory Critical Care Medicine 2008; 15; 178:124-31).

Of particular note, there may be foods you should eat while pregnant in order to prevent allergies in your child. A 2007 study found a link between maternal consumption of apples and fish during pregnancy associated with a lower risk of asthma and allergies.

The study concludes: "There was no evidence for associations between maternal intake of most foods during pregnancy and asthma, respiratory and allergic outcomes in five-year-old children, except for apples and fish. Consumption of apples and fish during pregnancy may have a protective effect against the development of childhood asthma and allergic disease." (Thorax 2007; 62:773-9.)

While studies have not found a conclusive link between maternal consumption of peanuts and peanut allergy in their infants, experts warn that this is not sufficient evidence to prove that there is no risk associated with eating peanuts while pregnant.

My suggestion is, if you are pregnant, speak with your trusted health care provider about the best approach you should take regarding nut consumption, and the introduction of new foods to your baby once an interest in solid food occurs.

Breast-Feeding and Food Allergies

Many studies have found a link between exclusive breast-feeding for the first six months and a dramatic reduction food allergies and sensitivity. A 2008 study focusing on dietary approaches to prevent food allergy found that, “Although some preventative dietary interventions have entered common practice, the level of evidence underpinning the strategies varies."

Interestingly, the study does conclude saying, "Exclusive breast-feeding and delayed introduction of complementary foods from the age of 4 to 6 months are key strategies in primary food allergy and atropy prevention." (Current Opinions and Clinical Nutrition, Metabolism and Care 2008; 11:320-8.)

A late 2008 study concurs with a similar finding, "In high-risk infants, there's evidence that exclusive breast-feeding for at least four months, and delaying any complementary foods until 4 to 6 months [of age], can prevent the development of allergy... there is no convincing evidence that maternal diet modification during pregnancy or lactation, the use of soy products, or infant dietary restrictions beyond 4-6 months has any effect on the development of atopic disease." (Current Opinions in Pediatrics 2008; 20:698-702).

Discuss candidly and openly with your health care provider about your ideal breast-feeding diet and food plan —especially if you have a personal history of food allergy and sensitivity, or have a close relationship with someone who has a peanut or nut product allergy.

Make it a good day...

LNM

Chiropractic Orthopedic Group

10- Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress

Practice members often lament about... frantic shopping, last-minute gift wrapping, planning multiple parties... as the single most reason for their office visit.

The holiday season can be fun, but it can also be marked by over commitments and stress. Mental-health experts warn that this year in particular, holiday stress will be amplified due to the current financial crisis.

I like to emphasize to my patients the connection between emotional stress and physical health. To help reduce anxiety and stay well this holiday season, I've compiled a list of 10- simple stress reducing tips. You'll be surprised by just how easy it is to remain relaxed during what most would agree are the busiest months of the year.

Physical-Emotional Link

Did you know that emotional stress is linked to colds and flus -- as well as chronic diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease, heart disease, and depression? Chiropractors know that reducing stress boosts wellness and vitality.

That's why I instruct our practice members about the chiropractic lifestyle, which is a mode of living that emphasizes disease prevention through healthy lifestyle choices... something we like to call "First Line Therapy." Keeping tabs on stress is a fundamental part of this lifestyle.

This way of life centers on respecting the connection between body, mind and spirit.

Watching for Early Signs

We constantly strive to urge our patients to be aware of early signs of stress, such as irritability, fatigue, the inability to relax or sleep, loss of appetite, or feelings of being overwhelmed. Don't dismiss these alarm signals as "normal" feelings to be endured by you or others around the holiday season.

Instead of wishing the holidays were over, take action. Consider the following 10- solutions as a blue print to a stress free holiday.

Check-in With the Doctor

Before the holidays get underway, just be sure to schedule an appointment with me, you know one of those 90- day check-ups. Research shows that chiropractic care reduces stress and enhances immune function naturally.

What's more, periodic chiropractic care eliminates spinal dysfunction associated with stress. A common malady, known as a vertebral subluxation, may be sparked by emotional stress. This type of restriction involving an individual vertebra is a condition in which normal segmental resiliency and motion is limited in any number of areas of the spine affecting individual spinal bones, (a.k.a. vertebra) and are not as much out of place, as they are stuck from moving in their normal range of freedom like a rusty or poorly lubricated door hinge.

In this practice I use chiropractic adjustments, specialized and gentle maneuvers, to correct for vertebral subluxations and the accompanying problems they cause and perpetuate.

Maintain a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet, low in sugar and unhealthy fats - and loaded with fresh fruits and vegetables - is a fantastic way to keep stress at bay. In fact, according to the USDA 9 to 13 daily servings of fresh fruits and vegetables is your nutritional minimum wage. For those who find it difficult to consume even this small amount of daily nutrients, we recommend Juice Plus+ as an excellent supplement to your daily nutritional needs.

How is eating nutritiously even possible with the ubiquitous holiday parties and treats? It's not easy, but it can be done. For instance, limit tempting food favorites to just one treat per event, take your time and relish that single morsel... or two, remember moderation is the key.

Design favorite fruit trays for parties, instead of desserts. Prepare craft items, rather than baked goods, for hostess gifts. Substitute olive oil or apple sauce in place of butter. Drink plenty of water and eat several healthy snacks throughout the day, especially before a holiday bash.

Vigorous Exercise

Exercise is a proven stress busting technique. Aerobic exercise literally reduces the production and effects of key stress hormones, such as cortisol.

This month, try creative ways to resume exercise, such as ice skating while the outdoor winter rinks are still in operation, walking the neighborhood to view holiday lights before your neighbors take them down, or try dancing to holiday music. Aim for 60- minutes of aerobic activity each day.
Most importantly, and if you can, try exercising outdoors as often as possible. Connecting with nature is a powerful stress buster. And, a little bit of sunlight will lift your spirits and relieve stress, especially if you suffer from seasonal affective disorder, (a.k.a. SAD) which is also known as winter depression. SAD is triggered by the loss of light during the winter months, or when its foggy and overcast for days on end.

Avoid Holiday Debt

Decide how much you can spend before you shop -- and a stick to your budget. Better yet, stick to cash, and minimize your reliance on credit cards unless you can pay the balance off completely avoiding recurring interest charges... but that's better said than done. If you're overwhelmed with too many gifts to buy consider starting a name exchange. Most likely others will appreciate a break is well!
If you're hosting a party, or even an "After New Year's Party" create a budget for food and decorations, or consider hosting a potluck. Simply gathering friends and family together is special enough. Spending a great deal of money doesn't mean it will be the perfect affair or that anyone will have a better time.

Be Flexible With Your Plans

Are you disappointed when events, such as holidays, birthdays and anniversaries don't turn out as you have imagined? Many people have unrealistic expectations for the holidays, and other special events particularly how family members will interact. That's because we choose our friends not our siblings, cousins or in-laws. This is a major source of holiday related stress. Keep an open mind, and relax... because it's not too hard to be polite for a day or an evening. For instance, if the plan is to drive around and checkout holiday lights and decorations, but the weather or traffic interferes, then adapt quickly without regret or worry. Gathering the family for songs around the fire, or roast marshmallows around a fire pit, or work on a jigsaw puzzle may be just as much fun.

Keep it Simple

Are you planning a five course, gourmet meal for your extended family of 20 plus only to have the next door neighbor's best friend's cousin's uncle show up as well? Unless you are among the rare group of people who consider cooking for large parties a form of relaxation and stress relief, then do youeself a big favor and simplify your meal planning. Focus on dishes that can be prepared ahead of time and then easily reheated. And don't shy away from asking guests to bring a dish or two as well. Remember: Relaxed fun is more important than perfection.

Be Organized

Make a list and check it twice before you shop for groceries or gifts. Sticking to the list will dramatically reduce your often times self-imposed stress.

If you're planning to hit the road, complete a packing list on paper. Pack things a couple days before your trip. If possible, load up the car the day prior to your departure. Plan that you'll run into some holiday traffic, so be sure you have enough supplies on hand to keep kids occupied. Bottled water, finger food, protein bars, and blankets are not only comfort items but easily converted into survival gear should weather or traffic conditions cause an unexpected delay, or worse yet, a disaster... it never hurts to be prepared. Allowing for extra time to travel will further cut down on your stress.

Start Early

Next year shop early for gifts to avoid lines and pandemonium at the malls. Or, better yet, shop online. Many companies offer free holiday shipping for orders placed well in advance. Also, consider purchasing gift cards for anyone on your list. Many supermarkets, big box stores, and other large chain retailers sell gift cards to a vast array of retail outlets.

If you're mailing gifts anywhere -- from the next zip code over to around the world -- don't wait until the last minute. You'll save both money, disappointment and stress.

Appreciate What You Have

Remember that the holidays, and other special celebrations come only once a year -- and that each year is a gift. Be sure to remind yourself to take a moment, slow down and appreciate the beauty around you... at least stop long enough and smell the roses, but not so long as to name it by its genus and species.

Appreciate the simple pleasures of life... the things that are easily taken for granted. Instead of rushing through wrapping the gifts, play some holiday music, or watch a favorite DVD, and savor the process. Don't worry about having every gift perfectly boxed and wrapped. Instead, use gift bags whenever possible. Not only do they save time and frustration, but they're also easily recycled... or used again.

Take a Break
If you've been working nonstop and at a frenzied pace, take time out to do something you enjoy. It may mean adapting your plans a little bit, but preventing stress-related illness should be your foremost priority. Treat yourself to massage, a sauna bath, an hour all alone with a good book, or a special dinner with a friend. Better yet, follow the universal law... and simply volunteer and give the gift of giving... because the more you give, the more you get.

Make it a good day...

LNM






Chiropractic Orthopedic Group