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Does heavy metal detox cure autism? The straightforward answer is no. Experts agree that there is “no evidence” supporting the notion that heavy metal detoxification can cure Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). According to the CDC and various health authorities, there is no known cause or cure for autism, which is influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.
The claim regarding heavy metal detox and autism gained traction from a Facebook video posted on January 8, 2023. The video begins with a text graphic stating, “After I detoxed my child, she began to talk and function better!”. The individual narrates how, after two days of detoxification, her daughter passed parasites and by the fourth or fifth day of using a natural mineral supplement, her daughter transitioned from being non-verbal to speaking. It’s a compelling narrative, but one that overlooks critical scientific evidence.
The video was uploaded on a page named “WOW PBX,” which promotes health and wellness, linking to a website that markets detox products. In the video, the presenter affirms that “everyone is using PBX Zeolite,” branding it as a heavy metal detox solution that claims to eliminate toxins and heavy metals from the body, alleging it is the root cause of developmental delays in children.
“They’re all using PBX Zeolite. It is a heavy metal detox to safely remove all of the toxins and heavy metals from the entire body and parents are discovering this is what’s causing their kids’ delay. If you want more information just check out my page.”
Dr. Sunil Mehta, a Minnesota psychiatrist specializing in neural development and ASD, was consulted for clarification on this matter. Dr. Mehta explained that autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that likely begins during fetal development. He categorized “heavy metal detox” as a form of chelation therapy, which lacks scientific credibility regarding its impact on autism.
“There is widespread belief that heavy metals such as lead and mercury can lead to Autism… but exposure during pregnancy is more strongly linked to intellectual disabilities rather than autism itself.”
Dr. Mehta further advised against pursuing chelation therapy, explaining that the chemicals used can inadvertently reduce essential minerals like Zinc and Copper to dangerously low levels. He expressed concern about the potential harm to children undergoing such treatments.
“Like anti-fungal/anti-parasitic therapy, chelation therapy is one that I counsel my patients not to pursue because these products can actively harm their child through side effects.”
Moreover, he addressed the unfounded notion that parasitic infections could lead to autism. Research has yet to reveal any credible link between such infections and the development of autism, nor do treatments like anti-parasitic medications have any evidence of efficacy in managing symptoms of this disorder.
“There is no scientific evidence that an acute infection by a worm, parasite, or any other pathogen causes Autism.”
According to the CDC, the causes of autism remain ambiguous. They emphasize that ASD is a developmental disability resulting from differences in brain development, with some individuals possessing identifiable genetic conditions, while others do not. The complexities surrounding autism suggest that several factors work together to influence its development.
“Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is caused by differences in the brain. Some people have a known difference, such as a genetic condition, while other causes are still unknown.”
The absence of a definitive medical test complicates diagnosing ASD; various signs such as social impairments and communication difficulties are considered during evaluation. The CDC also points out that there are no medications designed to treat the core symptoms of autism, further complicating the search for effective treatment options.
Dr. Mehta reaffirms that since no treatments have been scientifically validated to improve autism symptoms, any claims suggesting that heavy metal detoxification can reverse or alleviate these symptoms are groundless.
“There is no evidence that heavy metal detox improves any of the symptoms associated with Autism.”