In a new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, research shows a correlation between iron intake for pregnant women and autism. The study shows that low intakes of iron shows a five fold increase in the risk that the child will have autism. This data is based off of women that gave birth at age 35 or older and suffered from metabolic conditions. According to Rebecca J. Schmidt, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences and a researcher affiliated with the MIND Institute, the association between lower maternal iron intake and increased ASD risk was strongest during breastfeeding, after adjustment for folic acid intake. This research is continuously being studied as new findings surface. Iron deficiency is common, especially during pregnancies; however, iron is crucial to early brain development and is associated with autism.
by 
September 22, 2014
Blog