Author Description

Neurodevelopment and Intelligence Vol.1 is the first of a two volume that explains neurodevelopmental risks during fetal and early life, and details the things that can go awry that limit or hinder healthy brain development, leading to a loss of intellectual abilities or causing disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder. It should be of interest to professionals interested in brain health, preventive medicine, pediatrics, prenatal care and obstetrics, public health, and public policy. In volume 1, Section I section lays out a description of the Intelligence Quotient (IQ) and why it can used as a proxy for neurodevelopment. It explains IQ tests and other developmental scales scoring, and some of their limitations. It describes how the high metabolic cost of a large brain and the survival advantages provided by epigenetic adaptation to downsize the brain to the contemporaneous environmental conditions, explaining why a less costly, less intelligent brain are adaptive to leaner times. An estimate is made for the average human IQ when health, nutrition, and the social environment are optimal (about two standard deviations above the current average, or an IQ of 130). A primer on inflammation is given. Section II: discusses the impact of anemia and iron on brain development. Topics include: Hookworm, malaria, and infections. Much of this section discusses critical impact of anemia, iron deficiency, iron supplementation in pregnancy and infancy. The role other minerals and vitamins required for blood formation is discussed. Included are the risks involved with iron supplementation, which in itself can injury the infant’s brain. Section III: Covers the role of iodine and thyroid hormone on neurodevelopment. Chapters 8 - 12 discuss thyroid hormone disruptors including fluoride and bromide, organohalogens, thyroid disrupting organic pollutants, organophosphates and other biocides, and foods and food additives that impact thyroid function. Also d