Children with autism have mitochondrial dysfunction, study finds « Nutrition and Health
This study is pretty monumental in terms of establishing a real, verifiable difference between kids with autism, and those without. They have found mitochondrial dysfunction in kids with autism. This information helps on so many levels in furthering our understanding and possibly the treatment and prevention of autism.
First off, the test that can indicate mitochondrial dysfunction is simply a blood test. So that could become an easy diagnostic tool to help identify kids with autism more readily. Secondly, showing that the mitochondria is damaged in these kids, and specifically in certain complexes, can lead to better treatments. And the last point of this study, which is extremely important, is that mitochondria dysfunction is caused by “environmental stressorsâ€. The study points out that certain environmental toxins, when exposed to in utero or after birth, could cause autism. Knowing this will hopefully move us further in the direction of cutting down on unnecessary chemicals in our environment.
This is the key that everyone seems to want to avoid or dance around. The growing amount of toxins that we are all exposed to are too much for our bodies to process and ultimately they can cause all sorts of damage, especially to the mitochondria. Many neurological diseases such as Alzheimers, bipolar, and Parkinsons all have damage to the mitochondria. And each have been linked to exposures to certain toxic chemicals such as pesticides, solvents and many others. I suspect many other neurological and auto immune disorders have mitochondria damage at the root too.
This is why vaccines may contribute to autism. It is probably not the virus itself, but rather the chemical preservatives (like mercury) and the chemical adjuvants, that are the tipping points for already chemically overloaded babies. And the next generation is only going to get worse.
This also supports why avoiding certain chemicals and processed food can help kids with autism. Not only do they lower their toxic load, but by eating nutrient dense foods, they may boost their own natural detoxification systems and strengthen their immune and nervous systems.
I am certain other studies will follow that will try to negate this one, especially those funded by drug companies, or by manufacturers of chemicals. But I think the time is coming when we can no longer deny or ignore the role toxic chemicals play in our health and the health of the planet. We need more innovation to clean up our act and still continue to enjoy some of the conveniences and products we have grown accustomed to. And we all need to cut back on our consumption of disposable items such as plastic water bottles, plastic bags, and cheap products that have a very short usefulness span. Autism is just one of the many wake up calls we are getting everyday. Hopefully studies like this will continue to expose the dangers of environmental toxins and force our government and others to take action.