DENVER — Proper nutrition is key to keeping a developing baby healthy and strong.  Now a new study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology suggests that taking iron supplements may reduce the risk of autism.

Iron is crucial to a baby’s brain development.  Researchers found that mothers of children with autism were significantly less likely to have taken iron supplements before and during pregnancy than those whose children seem to be developing normally.

Medical experts warn that pregnant women should not take iron supplements without first asking their doctor because it is possible to overdose and harm the baby.

Overall nutrition is equally as important when it comes to a baby’s good heatlh.  Certified Nurse Midwife Jayne Jones of the “All About Women’s Care” practice at Swedish Medical Center says when it comes to nutrition, it’s more about the quality than the quantity. “Instead of eating lots of food for two people it’s about eating the right kinds of food.”

Jones emphasizes that a  range of vitamins and minerals from whole food sources are necessary to maintain a balanced diet during pregnancy including calcium and Omega 3 nutrients.

It is also important to get the proper nutrients before conception. Jones says, “The biggest points of development are frequently before people even realize they’re pregnant.”

Before conception, doctors recommend taking prenatal vitamins, which often include folic acid, the synthetic version of folate which is a type of iron.

To add iron and folic acid  to your diet the natural way, eat plenty of dark green leafy vegetables, fruits, beans and orange juice.