Autism is defined as a disorder of neural development characterized by impaired social interaction and communication, and by restricted and repetitive behavior. The diagnostic criteria require that symptoms become apparent before a child is three years old.
Having a healthy pregnancy can help lower the risk. According to Autism Speaks “A growing body of research suggests that a woman can reduce her risk of having a child with autism by taking prenatal vitamins containing folic acid and/or eating a diet rich in folic acid (at least 600 mcg a day) during the months before and after conception.”
Folic acid is a part of the B complex of vitamins. It is vital for red blood cells and for many other cells in the body and can be found at your local supplement stores.
“One of the most important things you can do as a parent or caregiver is to learn the early signs of autism and become familiar with the typical developmental milestones that your child should be reaching.”
The following "red flags" may indicate your child is at risk for an autism spectrum disorder:
• No big smiles or other warm, joyful expressions by six months or thereafter
• No back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions by nine months
• No babbling by 12 months
• No back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving by 12 months
• No words by 16 months
• No meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating) by 24 months
• Any loss of speech, babbling or social skills at any age
If your child exhibits any of the signs be proactive, don’t delay in asking your pediatrician or family doctor for an evaluation.
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Source: Autism Speaks Image: Freedigitalphotos.net
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