The National Academy of Sciences states that 25 percent of disorders in children, such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is believed to be caused by interactions between environmental factors and genetics. Further studies have found that 50% of autism cases can be attributed to environmental causes.
Dr. Philip Landrigan, Director of the Children’s Environmental Health Center (CEHC) states, "A large number of the chemicals in widest use have not undergone even minimal assessment of potential toxicity and this is of great concern. Knowledge of environmental causes of neurodevelopmental disorders is critically important because they are potentially preventable."
The CEHC developed a list of the top ten chemicals found in everyday products that are thought to contribute to autism and learning disabilities so that parents can be proactive and protect their children. They are:
1. Lead – One study published by Environmental Health Perspectives showed that as many as 21% of all ADHD children actually have lead poisoning. Several small studies have linked autism symptoms with lead poisoning and state that recovery from lead induced autism is possible. Common sources of exposure include dinnerware, artificial food coloring, toys, and paint.
2. Methylmercury – Exposure can impact a child’s brain and nervous system. This impacts cognitive thinking, memory, attention, language, fine motor and visual spatial skills. The most common source of exposure is fish with higher mercury content caused by coal-powered power plants.
3. PCBs - Manufacturing was stopped in 1979 in the US because it became known that PCBs build up in the environment and cause harmful health effects. It is known to interfere with estradiol (main sex hormone in women) and is thought to be linked to breast, uterine and cervical cancers. It is also known to lead to serious developmental problems including developmental delays in children. Sources of exposure include fish and older fluorescent lights found in schools, offices, and homes that still contain transformers or ballasts that contain PCBs.
4. Arsenic – has been linked to reduced cognitive function. Sources of arsenic include its use in wood preservatives and in some drug and body products.
5. Toluene - This chemical directly affects the Central Nervous System and according to the EPA and OSHA it is associated with brain development problems and attention deficit in children. Toluene is found in nail polish, synthetic fragrance, paint thinner and is released in automobile emissions.
6. Manganese - In the 1930s, researchers discovered that our bodies require small amounts of dietary manganese each day. However, manganese from dry cell batteries can contaminate water sources and this type of manganese has been associated with neurological symptoms. Additional studies have shown that children exposed to high levels of manganese through drinking water experience cognitive and behavioral deficits. Another toxic source is a manganese-containing compound used in gasoline as an anti-knock additive
7. Fluoride - Research at Harvard University linked fluoride to the lowering of IQ in children and clearly illustrated the fact that fluoride is detrimental to brain development and can lead to autism spectrum disorders and other mental issues. Sources of fluoride include water and toothpaste.
8. Organochlorine pesticides – DDT is included in this category and these pesticides are used to protect crops, livestock, buildings and households from the damaging effects of insects. Pesticide residue on food is a major source of exposure as is soil for they can remain there for decades and enter our water supply. Studies have found correlations between organochlorine exposure and various types of cancer, neurological damage, Parkinson's, birth defects, respiratory illness and abnormal immune system function.
9. Tetrachloroethylene - a manufactured chemical used for dry cleaning and metal degreasing. Exposure can cause dizziness headaches, sleepiness, in coordination confusion, nausea, and unconsciousness. It is found in dry cleaning solutions.
10. PBDE’s - widely used in flame retardants since the 1970s, in everything from TV sets to upholstery backing. Scientists now suspect links to cancer as well as developmental problems in children’s brains and their immune systems.
If you suspect your child has been exposed, strongly consider a detoxification process such as CEASE therapy that will help your child escort the toxins out of their body. To schedule a complimentary 30 minutes session please call our office at (310) 738-8878
References
http://www.theatlantic.com/features/archive/2014/03/the-toxins-that-threaten-our-brains/284466/
http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/minerals/manganese/
http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/wp-content/uploads/sites/21/2012/07/Media-Statement_Fluoride-9-12-12-Revised2.pdf
http://www.thelancet.com/journals/laneur/article/PIIS1474-4422%2813%2970278-3/abstract