Photo; courtesy of my beautiful little sister
Can you really prevent Autism or ADHD?In the last 8 years, I have had the privilege of working with many children with autism and their families. During this time, I have had many discussions around the causes Autism. I know there are lots of speculations and I am not going to go into my own opinions here. I just want share some insight into possible prevention. Ensuring that your own body is balanced and healthy will give your baby a healthier start to life.
Perhaps this is a bit premature, as I have yet to fully read this book, Preventing Autism & ADHD but I have heard some great reviews from parents of children with autism. Dr. Debbie Hamilton's medical experience gives hope that prevention is possible.
Babies who are born through the birth canal of a healthy mother ingest healthy bacteria (probiotics) which help the baby build up a strong immune system. During this process, hormones are released which help mom and baby bond, as well as initiate milk production. The milk produced by a healthy mother will also give the baby more antibodies to help him/her fight off illness etc.
Since our world continues to be polluted with chemicals, unnatural foods, preservatives, dyes, fragrances and stress, our bodies are not always in the best shape for a healthy baby. Babies, if not born through a c-section, often pass through a birth canal which is full of yeast, deficient in minerals and high in toxins. This in turn becomes his/her start into this world. If this isn't enough, it is only a few months into life where this little body's immune system is fighting hard again when given its first set of vaccinations. In Canada, for example this happens as early as three months old.
It is a tough start for many infants. Some babies immune systems are continually fighting just to get ahead. This compromised immune system can make them more susceptible to illness. Babies can become quite sick and even be given antibiotics. The antibiotics although given to help fight off bacteria will also fill their systems with unhealthy bacteria compromising their immune systems again.
Unfortunately our environment has been tainted, however there is still so much we can do in order to be proactive in our health and the health of your children. If you are thinking about having a child, do consider Dr.Debbie's book or take some time to consider your own health. For more on your digestive and gut health feel free to check out my post on Your Are What You Eat...
