Reflections on the Increase in Autism, ADHD, Anxiety, and Depression: Part 2 – Exposure to Neurotoxins and Ultraprocessed Foods

Abstract

Mental health symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, anxiety, and depression have increased over the last 15 years. An additional risk factor that may affect mental and physical health is the foods we eat. Even though our food may look and even taste the same as compared to 50 years ago, it contains herbicide and pesticide residues and often consist of ultraprocessed foods. These foods (low in fiber and high in sugar, animal fats, and additives) are a significant part of the American diet and correlate with higher levels of inattention and hyperactivity in children with ADHD. Due to affluent malnutrition, many children are deficient in essential vitamins and minerals. We recommend that diet and lifestyle are assessed before beginning neurofeedback and behavioral treatments (we call this Grandmother therapy assessment). If the diet appears low in organic foods and vegetable, and high in ultraprocessed foods and drinks, then nutritional deficiencies should be assessed. The next intervention step is to then reduce the nutritional deficiencies and implement diet changes from ultraprocessed foods to organic whole foods. Meta-analysis demonstrates that providing supplements such as vitamin D, reducing simple carbohydrates and sugars, and eating more vegetables, fruits, and healthy fats during regular meals can ameliorate the symptoms and promote health.