According to a study published in the journal “Molecular Psychiatry,” certain nutrients and food components may impact the development of the brain in the fetus, leading to an increased risk of autism.
The study, led by researchers from the University of California, Davis, analyzed data from over 1,000 mother-child pairs. The researchers found that a higher intake of folic acid, iron, and choline during pregnancy was associated with a lower risk of autism in the child. Conversely, a higher intake of vitamin A and mercury during pregnancy was linked to an increased risk of autism.
The researchers also found that maternal intake of specific food components, such as folate, lutein, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), during pregnancy was associated with better language and cognitive development in the child.
The study’s lead author, Dr. Paula Kranz, explained that “Our findings suggest that a healthy diet during pregnancy could help reduce the risk of autism and improve brain development in the offspring.” However, she also cautioned that more research is needed to confirm these findings and to determine the optimal levels of these nutrients for pregnant women.
The study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting that maternal health and nutrition during pregnancy play a crucial role in the development of autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders. Expectant mothers are encouraged to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, rich in essential nutrients, to support the optimal development of their baby’s brain.
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1.Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2.We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
