Understanding Autism and Neurodivergence: Causes, Risks, and Interventions
What is Autism?
Autism is a developmental condition affecting how individuals communicate and interact with the world. It is often referred to as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC). Though autism manifests differently in each person, individuals with ASD typically experience difficulties in two key areas: social communication and behavioural regulation.
Professor Christopher Gillberg, a leading expert in child psychiatry, describes autism as a collection of syndromes with diverse root causes, ranging from genetic predispositions to environmental influences. While some cases have a clear genetic basis, a growing body of research suggests that environmental factors also play a significant role.
The Role of Environmental Factors
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) states:
"The precise cause of ASD is unknown. However, numerous genetic and environmental factors are thought to play a role in development."
Several environmental influences have been linked to ASD, including:
Maternal health and nutrition (deficiencies in folate, choline, vitamin D, and omega-3s).
Exposure to toxins (heavy metals, pesticides, air pollution, endocrine disruptors).
Immune system challenges (infections, autoimmune disorders, inflammatory responses).
Microbiome health (gut bacteria imbalances impacting brain function).
Government data from the UK estimates that 1 in 62 children are classified as autistic—an eightfold increase in 20 years. School censuses in Scotland and Northern Ireland report even higher numbers, with 1 in 20 children diagnosed. These rising rates indicate that environmental influences may play a greater role than genetic.
Neurodivergence and Related Conditions
Neurodivergence refers to variations in cognitive function and information processing, including:
Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): Difficulty processing sensory stimuli, often seen in autistic individuals.
Dyslexia: Challenges with reading and language processing, often accompanied by strong visual-spatial skills.
Dyspraxia: Impaired motor coordination and planning, affecting physical activities and organization.
In the UK, 1 in 6 individuals have special educational needs (SEN) and 1 in 6 are classified as neurodivergent, though these groups do not fully overlap. A more holistic focus on symptom management and environmental support may be more beneficial than rigid diagnostic labels.
Maternal Environment and Autism Risk
The prenatal and neonatal periods are critical windows for fetal brain development, where various environmental and nutritional factors may contribute to ASD risk. Key strategies to optimise development and minimise risk include: ✔ Preconception detoxification (reducing heavy metals, pesticides, and plastics). ✔ Balancing maternal nutrition (ensuring sufficient folate, choline, omega-3s, vitamin D, iodine, and iron). ✔ Reducing inflammation & immune stress (monitoring infections, autoimmunity, and gut health). ✔ Minimising toxic exposures (air pollution, endocrine disruptors, unnecessary medications). ✔ Supporting a healthy gut microbiome (probiotics, avoiding unnecessary antibiotics).
Vaccination and Autism: Examining Parental Concerns
Some parents report that their child’s autism symptoms emerged soon after receiving the MMR vaccine, raising questions about potential vaccine-related immune responses. In a survey of 297 children, 26% experienced immediate regression post-MMR, with rates rising to 40% among Somali children. While these observations do not establish causation, they underscore the need for further investigation into individual immune susceptibilities.
Unlike standard randomised controlled trials, vaccine safety studies are not typically conducted against a true placebo, and follow-up periods often extend only three months. Epidemiological studies may also struggle to detect associations when effects are small, time-dependent, or vary by subgroup. A historical parallel can be drawn with the identification of thalidomide’s teratogenic effects—initial large-scale studies failed to recognise its role in causing severe birth defects. The breakthrough only came when individual case histories were meticulously analysed, revealing the link.
This highlights the critical role of clinical observation, detailed patient histories, and targeted research, ensuring that rare but significant adverse effects are not overlooked.
Diet, Neurodevelopment, and the Impact of Antinutrients
Emerging research suggests that modern diets may contribute to neurodevelopmental challenges. Antinutrients—substances that interfere with nutrient absorption or function—may be particularly problematic for neurodivergent individuals. Examples include:
1️⃣ Artificial Sweeteners: Disrupt gut microbiota and neurotransmitter function (e.g., aspartame, sucralose).
2️⃣ Emulsifiers & Preservatives: Contribute to leaky gut and inflammation (e.g., polysorbate 80, sodium benzoate).
3️⃣ Artificial Food Dyes: Linked to hyperactivity and immune overactivation (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5).
4️⃣ Flavor Enhancers: Overstimulate the nervous system (e.g., MSG, hydrolyzed vegetable protein).
Minimising these substances and focusing on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods may support brain health and improve outcomes for neurodivergent individuals.
Looking Ahead
The growing conversation around autism, neurodivergence, and environmental influences is shifting perspectives. As awareness increases, so does the opportunity to explore preventative strategies and supportive interventions—from maternal health optimisation to dietary changes and targeted therapies. Understanding the complex interplay between genetics, environment, and lifestyle is key to fostering better outcomes for individuals on the spectrum.
For more information for practitioners, please visit the Smart Kids Conference and register here.
And for parents: Optimising Neurodivergence webinar” Register here
Date: 24 April 2025
Time: 6:30pm
