Avoiding Autism by Richard Hansler Ph.D.

In recent years, more and more children are being diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Development of ASD occurs during fetal brain development and may be related to both genetic and
environmental factors.

This book looks at one of the environmental factors contributing to the development of Autism. More specifically, it examines the potentially damaging effects of exposure to artificial light at night in the hours before bedtime. The blue rays found in artificial light directly reduce melatonin production in the pregnant mother. As a consequence of this lowered melatonin production, the fetal brain is more susceptible to damage. In fact, damage may occur very early in gestation, even before a woman knows she is pregnant. One of the ways to protect the fetal brain is to ensure adequate melatonin production. This is best achieved by reducing exposure to blue light at night from artificial light bulbs, TV and computer screens, and other mobile electronic devices. Living a healthy lifestyle with a strong circadian rhythm and maximum melatonin production is healthy for both mother and baby. These lifestyle changes should be adopted well before pregnancy and carried through your baby’s early years (and beyond!).