Through several studies, it's become apparent that autism is linked to immune systems which are out of control. Autistic immune systems get triggered by foods like sugar, wheat and beans. The small intestine dumps the associated proteins into the bloodstream, and the proteins wreck havoc on nervous and immune systems. One effect is insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes.

The problem seems to be inherent from birth. It only becomes apparent when these children fail to develop. So, what could happen before birth, associated with both digestion and autoimmunity, which would cause such effects?

Lutein and zeaxanthin (L and Z) are polyphenol aldehyde dyes. They are in foods like egg yolks and yellow corn. L and Z are virtually identical twins. Lutein tends to have more aldehyde properties, and zeaxanthin tends to have more dye properties.

The primary function of L and Z is to regulate the damage which blue light from sunlight inflicts on plant leaves. Humans utilize L and Z by lining the retina with them. They help protect the retina from sun damage. Some people collect and use L and Z properly. Some people over-collect L and Z, and some people under-collect them. Some people are intolerant of L and Z. Some intolerant people make antibodies which attack and remove lutein and zeaxanthin. In the process their immune systems attack the tissues which L and Z contact.

Blue sunlight is responsible for regulating our sleep cycles. Lutein and Zeaxanthin are responsible for regulating blue sunlight. Next time you eat a few eggs or a few ears of yellow corn, and you find yourself itching, or in agonizing sinus pain, on the internet at 3 am, think about these articles.

Autism: Lutein intolerance in 85% of Autistic Population:
http://curezone.com/forums/fm.asp?i=49844

Autism, Pigments and the Immune System:
http://www.saras-autism-diet.freeser...chrome%20P-450

Lutein alters immune properties of mammalian eggs:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2076530

Ophthalmologic abnormalities in autism
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2076530