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Does soy-based infant formula cause ADHD? Update and public policy considerations

Francis M Crinella1

  • 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
PubMed

Insights

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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