GMO (Genetically Modified Organism), Roundup and Autism

A genetically modified organism (GMO) is an organism whose genome has been altered by the techniques of genetic engineering so that its DNA contains one or more genes not normally found there. Note: A high percentage of food crops, such as corn and soybeans, are genetically modified. Other names for the process include Genetic Engineering (GE) or Genetic Modification (GM), which are the same. Most of the research used to claim that GMOs are safe has been performed by biotechnology companies. However, there is an evidence-based study called GMO Myths and Truths that examines the claims made for safety and efficacy of genetically modified crops and foods. 

Roundup link with modern diseases suggested: ​(Page 213 of the study GMO Myths and Truths) A review published in 2013 (Samsel and Senef, 2013) hypothesized a mechanism by which glyphosate herbicides could be contributing to modern human diseases that are on the increase worldwide. The authors focused especially on celiac disease and gluten intolerance, but also drew potential links between glyphosate toxicity and a broader range of diseases, such as ADHD (attention defcit hyperactivity disorder), autism, Alzheimer’s disease, infertility, birth defects, and cancer.

This means that the GM and Roundup Ready (RR) foods available for purchase are likely contributing to the struggles faced by our children with autism.  We don't want to feed that to our son Jovan as we are trying to heal him, not add to his list of autism-related issues to overcome. Please research and buy non GMO-free, organic foods not touched by Roundup.  

​Arguments that Roundup replaces more toxic herbicides are false: (Page 214 of the study GMO Myths and Truths) GMO proponents often argue that Roundup has replaced more toxic herbicides and that GM Roundup Ready (RR) crops therefore reduce the toxic burden on humans and the environment. But this is false. GM RR crops have not only increased the use of glyphosate herbicides but have also increased the use of other, potentially even more toxic herbicides, due to the spread of glyphosate-resistant weeds (see Myth 5.2). Farmers can no longer control weeds with glyphosate alone and add other herbicides to their spray mix. Also, as we have seen, the presumed safety of Roundup is a marketing claim that does not refect the scientifc facts. (Source reference: Samsel A, Senef S. Glyphosate’s suppression of cytochrome P450 enzymes and amino acid biosynthesis by the gut microbiome: Pathways to modern diseases. Entropy. 2013;15:1416-1463).

Claims that the Roundup used on GM Roundup Ready crops replaces even more toxic herbicides are misleading. First, the toxicity of Roundup has been underestimated. And second, the failure of Roundup Ready technology due to resistant weeds has resulted in the industry developing GM crops that tolerate other, potentially even more toxic herbicides, such as 2,4-D, an ingredient of Agent Orange.

This excellent article called Glyphosate May Be a Contributor to Creating Autism references a recent informative study linking glyphosate to autism: Study: Reducing Herbicide Glyphosate in Diet Reduces Autism Symptoms.