A lack of antioxidants in autism
One of the causes of (brain) inflammation is an increased production of free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive substances that have important functions in the body, such as fighting viruses, bacteria, and cancer cells. However, they should not become overactive or stay active for too long. They need to be neutralized in time by antioxidants.
Some antioxidants we can produce ourselves, others we have to get from our diet. If there is a lack of antioxidants, or when many more free radicals are produced than the body can neutralize, all types of cells can be damaged. This is called oxidative stress or oxidative damage.
When cells are damaged by oxidative stress, an inflammatory response is triggered to repair that damage. A lack of antioxidants is therefore a very important cause of inflammation. The inflammation ensures that even more free radicals are produced. This creates a vicious cycle that cannot be stopped by taking anti-inflammatories. There must also be enough antioxidants available.
