Does soy-based infant formula cause ADHD? Update and public policy considerations.
1University of California Irvine, Department of Pediatrics, UCI Child Development Center, 19722 MacArthur Blvd, Irvine, CA 92612, USA. fmcrinel@uci.edu
Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics
|March 28, 2012
Summary
This study reviews manganese (Mn) neurotoxicity and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Research suggests high manganese exposure may contribute to ADHD-like symptoms and behavioral issues in infants and children.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Toxicology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Earlier hypotheses suggested a link between soy infant formulas, manganese (Mn) neurotoxicity, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
- This review examines recent literature on ADHD, Mn, and Mn neurotoxicity, focusing on risks from soy-based infant formula ingestion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current literature on manganese neurotoxicity in relation to ADHD.
- To assess the potential risks of manganese toxicity from soy-based infant formulas.
- To discuss the implications for public policy regarding infant formula safety.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent scientific literature on ADHD, manganese, and neurotoxicity.
- Analysis of studies involving rodent and primate models.
- Examination of research correlating ADHD symptoms with manganese levels in human tooth enamel.
Main Results:
- Studies in animal models show high manganese intake is associated with hyperactivity, inattention, disinhibition, and social deficits.
- Alterations in dopamine receptors and transporters in critical brain regions were observed in animal models.
- ADHD-like symptoms in children correlated with manganese content in tooth enamel, indicating early-life exposure.
- Similar neurochemical deficits are observed in children diagnosed with ADHD.
Conclusions:
- High manganese exposure is a potential risk factor for ADHD, alongside genetic and other environmental factors.
- The findings warrant consideration regarding the safety of soy-based infant formulas and public health policies.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of manganese in ADHD etiology.
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