According to the British \”Daily Mail\” report, iron deficiency during pregnancy will increase the risk of autism in children, and the risk is greater for older mothers. US researchers have found that mothers whose children have autism are more likely to not take adequate iron supplements before or during pregnancy than mothers whose children typically develop.
Iron deficiency linked to autism in children
The so-called iron deficiency is anemia. Iron deficiency in the body can cause a decrease in the number of red blood cells. Iron is used in the production of red blood cells, which are the main carriers of oxygen through the blood. When the body\’s red blood cells are low, the body\’s organs and tissues cannot absorb enough oxygen properly.
Additionally, iron is critical for early brain development and is involved in neurotransmitter production, myelination, and immune function, all of which have been linked to autism.
Researchers say iron is crucial for fetal brain growth and development, suggesting iron deficiency may contribute to autism. In this study, University of California researchers are the first to examine the link between maternal iron intake and the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in their children.
The study examined pairs of mothers and children who participated in the Genetic and Environmental Risks of Autism in Children study in Northern California between 2002 and 2009. The researchers measured mothers\’ iron intake, including vitamins, other nutritional supplements and breakfast cereals, from the first day of life to the end of breastfeeding for three months.
Older women more likely to develop autism due to iron deficiency
Research shows that children with autism are linked to iron deficiency, with the risk increasing fivefold if the mother was 35 or older at the time of birth. The risk of autism is also increased when the mother has other medical conditions, such as obesity, high blood pressure or diabetes.
Earlier research from the University of California suggested that taking folic acid during pregnancy could reduce the risk of autism in children. \”Lower iron intake is associated with a higher risk of autism,\” said Rebecca Schmidt, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health Sciences. \”Also, if the pregnant woman is older and her body\’s metabolism is poorer, her ability to absorb iron will be reduced.\” Decreases. The poorer you are, it decreases, which is why older women are more likely to develop this risk.\”
Taking iron supplements during pregnancy
Professor Schmidt said: \”Iron deficiency and anemia are very common nutritional deficiencies, especially during pregnancy, affecting 40 to 50 per cent of women and their babies.\”
The most common causes of iron deficiency anemia in women of childbearing age are menorrhagia and pregnancy, when the body needs more extra iron to provide to the baby. Iron deficiency is very common among women and needs to be treated with caution and reasonable iron supplementation as prescribed by your doctor. Especially during pregnancy, take your vitamins at the recommended dose every day and consult your doctor if you experience side effects.