As rates of Autism increase across the world it is more important than ever to focus on the parent’s health and the role it plays in their children’s future health. The health of both the mother and father are crucial for the development of a healthy child.
Preconception care is ideally started a minimum of four months prior to trying to conceive. It is equally important to address the health of the father at this time, as he contributes equal amounts of genetic information. DNA is very susceptible to toxins, oxidative stress and vitamin and mineral levels. Appropriate vitamin and mineral support months before conception can help to optimize the genetic information donated to the baby from the father. Antioxidants such as Vitamin E and Zinc have also been shown to be beneficial.
A high quality prenatal vitamin with adequate levels of activated methylfolate is necessary for the female. Ensure that the multivitamin is free of chemicals, dyes, and additives. Prenatal vitamins have been found to contain many unhealthy ingredients including trace amounts of lead. A high quality professional prenatal will ensure both the mother and the fetus’s safety.
A “green home” is also required to minimize toxic exposures to both the mother and father. Cleaning supplies, personal healthcare products, and air quality in the home are all important. Additionally a clean, organic diet limits exposures to chemicals and pesticides.
Once an egg is fertilized, the environment is provided entirely by the mother, however the months leading up to this are of the utmost importance to optimize the health of the fetus and get a head start for optimizing your child’s health. Our naturopathic doctors work with future parents to maximize the health of both parents during the preconception phase to help reduce the risk of Autism and other childhood illness’ such as Asthma, ADHD and allergies. Contact the clinic to book a consultation with a naturopathic doctor who can help to ensure optimal preconception care.
