I’ve been following Patty Lemer’s writings on autism spectrum disorders for years. Lemer is the co-founder of Developmental Delay Resources, a non-profit organization integrating conventional and holistic therapies for children with sensory-system challenges. Years ago, without payment or complaint, she spent forty-five minutes on the phone with me discussing therapy options for one son whose motor development was unconventional at the time (but who now relishes swimming, diving, and choreographed stage-fighting lessons).

Here’s an excerpt from an article by Lemer on watching her own daughter’s efforts to grow a healthy baby. Wow. Look at this–

“Comparing my daughter’s experience as a pregnant woman to mine over 30 years ago boggles my mind. Her pregnancy is planned, mechanically monitored and managed. Prior to conception, she checked her thyroid function and completed a detoxification program. She has been eating a mostly organic, gluten- and dairy-free diet, and practicing yoga and Pilates. Over-the-counter vitamins are supplemented by high quality EFAs, extra iron from nettle tea and other important nutrients. She uses non-toxic alternatives for pest control and household cleaners, switched to an aluminum-free deodorant, and has avoided nail salons and beauty parlors…[my daughter and son-in-law] have read up on vaccines and their ingredients, and are purchasing toxin-free bedding, paint and flooring. This precautionary behavior is the culmination of all I have learned about possible causes and treatments for autism and related delays. I am confident that by living in a healthy fashion, she and others of her generation can prevent their children from having autism. If only more prenatal classes, obstetricians and pediatricians shared this perspective.”

Read the whole article here.