The Link Between Our Modern Diseases: Diabetes, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and Environmental Toxins
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes within a few years of each other. I believed my exposure to toxins played a role in these diagnoses. I lived among corn fields sprayed heavily with glyphosate, and this set the stage for my gut and body to develop diabetes.
The Link Between Disease and Glyphosate
Research increasingly highlights a disturbing connection between modern diseases—including IBS, diabetes, cancer, and autism—and exposure to herbicides, particularly glyphosate. This is largely due to the damage glyphosate causes to the gut lining, disrupting its ability to process sulfates, which are critical for biological functions. Autism spectrum disorders (ASD), for instance, are associated with immune system dysfunction, including neuroinflammation, autoantibodies, and irregularities in immune cells, cytokines, and immunoglobulins.
According to a 2023 Healthline article, individuals with autism face a 57% higher risk of developing diabetes compared to those without autism. The risk jumps to 64% for type 1 diabetes and an alarming 146% for type 2 diabetes.
Multiple researchers** now are argue that the same thing I've known since diagnosis, was that the molecular cause of these conditions is linked. Both type 1 diabetes and autism spectrum disorders involve the destruction of insulin-producing beta cells, often due to autoimmune mechanisms, which Dr. Bush ties to glyphosate exposure.
The Role of Glyphosate
Glyphosate is one of the most widely used herbicides globally and has been shown to disrupt endocrine function and even cause cancer. While there is limited research specifically demonstrating glyphosate’s role in promoting diabetes, its overall impact on chronic diseases—such as cancer, diabetes, obesity, asthma, and infertility—is well-documented. Glyphosate applied at a rate of 0.75 pounds of acid equivalent per acre has a half-life of 7 to 60 days, contaminating much of our food and groundwater. Notably, the rise in diabetes and autism correlates strongly with the increased use of glyphosate over the years.
Other Endocrine Disruptors
While glyphosate plays a critical role in the rise of these diseases, other environmental toxins contribute as well, including:
- BPA (Bisphenol-A) and phthalates found in plastics
- Dioxins, byproducts of smelting, paper bleaching, and herbicide manufacturing
- Atrazine and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls), chemicals used in electrical equipment, coatings, adhesives, and flame retardants
The Biology of Disease: Glyphosate and Modern Health Issues
Key Points
Impact of Glyphosate:
Glyphosate disrupts essential biological processes such as sulfate synthesis, gut microbiome balance, and mineral absorption, all vital for maintaining health.
Sulfate Deficiency:
Sulfate is crucial for detoxification, cellular function, and gut health. Deficiencies may lead to neurological disorders, reproductive issues, and metabolic problems.
Gut Health:
The gut microbiome plays a critical role in overall health. Glyphosate damages beneficial bacteria, leading to harmful bacterial overgrowth and gut inflammation.
Nutrient and Mineral Disruptions:
Glyphosate chelates essential minerals like iron, zinc, and cobalt, leading to health deficiencies. It also disrupts amino acid and vitamin synthesis.
Inflammation and Oxidative Stress:
Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, linked to many diseases, are exacerbated by glyphosate exposure.
Curcumin and Glucosinolates:
Curcumin (from turmeric) has anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antidiabetic properties. Glucosinolates (from cruciferous vegetables) contribute to cancer prevention and overall health.
Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments to Counteract Glyphosate Exposure
Suggestions
Reduce Glyphosate Exposure:
Opt for organic foods to minimize glyphosate intake and advocate for reduced herbicide use in agriculture.
Support Gut Health:
Include probiotics and prebiotics in your diet to restore beneficial gut bacteria. Avoid antibiotics that may further disrupt your microbiome.
Increase Sulfur Intake:
Eat sulfur-rich foods like cruciferous vegetables, garlic, onions, and eggs. Consider sulfur supplements if necessary.
Enhance Detoxification:
Take regular Epsom salt baths to absorb magnesium sulfate. Incorporate detoxifying agents like activated charcoal, bentonite clay, and humic/fulvic acids into your routine.
Optimize Nutrient Intake:
Ensure adequate intake of essential minerals like zinc, iron, and cobalt. Include foods rich in vitamins and antioxidants to combat oxidative stress.
Incorporate Anti-inflammatory Foods:
Add curcumin to your diet for its anti-inflammatory properties. Eat glucosin-rich foods like broccoli, cabbage, and kale.
Get Adequate Sunlight:
Spend time outdoors to boost vitamin D and cholesterol sulfate production, but practice safe sun exposure.
Adopt a Whole Foods Diet:
Focus on nutrient-rich, whole foods while avoiding processed foods high in additives and chemicals.
Regular Physical Activity:
Engage in regular exercise to support metabolic health and reduce inflammation. Activities like yoga or tai chi can also help manage stress.
Monitor and Manage Stress:
Practice mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing to reduce stress. Prioritize rest and sleep to support overall health.
Conclusion
The link between glyphosate and modern diseases, especially autism and diabetes, cannot be ignored. Glyphosate disrupts critical biological functions, damages the gut, and contributes to chronic diseases. However, by making conscious lifestyle and dietary changes—such as eating organic, supporting gut health, and enhancing detoxification—you can reduce exposure to environmental toxins like glyphosate and promote long-term health and vitality.
**Including Dr. Zach Bush, a triple board-certified physician specializing in Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, and Hospice care.
About the Author:
Karin Collinsworth combines over thirty-five years of experience in diabetes management, research, yoga, and wellness. As a Type 1 diabetic who has participated in landmark clinical trials regarding blood sugar disease (the DCCT and EDIC trials) while studying holistic alternative healing methods such as nutrition, yoga, and personal development, Karin brings the best and firsthand insight into her coaching clients in her Holistic Metabolic Mastery program. Based in Seattle and founder of Blood Sugar Dogs and Ideas and Insights, LLC, Karin blends a passion for fun approaches to promoting health despite the challenges and using information technology to improve the world. She helps those facing a life with a blood sugar diagnosis dial in their brand, life path, insights, and routines to live their best, enlightened life. Contact her via a comment here, joining her Holistic Pathways Facebook Group, or booking about a Metabolic Mastery Strategy Session.
Citations
- L.G. Kahn, et al. 2023. “Glyphosate Potentiates Insulin Resistance in Skeletal Muscle through the Modulation of IRS-1/PI3K/Akt Mediated Mechanisms: An in Vivo and in Silico Analysis.” International Journal of Biological Macromolecules. Elsevier. May 18. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0141813023018111#:~:text=Numerous%20chronic%20diseases%2C%20including%20cancer,between%207%20and%2060%20days.
- 2024. People. Accessed April 16. https://people.csail.mit.edu/seneff/glyphosate/glyphosate.html?fbclid=IwAR2xqednqr5X-XOcDR_doB2ySpZ42B7OOmDFyux_jA79ShqcyMErsg31LLU.
- “The Surprising Causes of Autism & Why It’s On The Rise | Dr. Suzanne Goh & Dr. Mark Hyman.” 2024. YouTube. YouTube. April 10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PxaFOLQjLD0.
- Tromans S, Yao G, Alexander R, Mukaetova-Ladinska E, Kiani R, Al-Uzri M, Chester V, Carr R, Morgan Z, Vounzoulaki E, Brugha T. The Prevalence of Diabetes in Autistic Persons: A Systematic Review. Clin Pract Epidemiol Ment Health. 2020 Dec 31;16:212-225. doi 10.2174/1745017902016010212. PMID: 33719361; PMCID: PMC7931154.
- Sogard, A., & Mickleborough, T. (2022). The therapeutic potential of exercise and caffeine on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in athletes. Frontiers In Neuroscience, 16. doi 10.3389/fnins.2022.978336
- “GMOs, Glyphosate & Gut Health.” 2018. YouTube. YouTube. March 12. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jWgnkgYtqnw.
