Factors Predisposing for Autism

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) prevalence has tripled this century, such that over 2% of children in the US are autistic. While there seem to be many variants of the condition, there are some common variables that may increase the likelihood of an ASD diagnosis. These factors represent a complex interplay between genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors. Some factors that contribute to ASD risk include oxidative stress exposure and cerebral folate deficiency (CFD). Nutritional interventions to mitigate the effects of oxidative stress and CFD include supplementation of folate in its reduced form, consumption of fruits and vegetables naturally high in the reduced form of folate, and elimination of cow’s milk from the diet to reduce or eliminate production of folate receptor antibodies.