Could Reducing EMFs Help Children with Autism and ADHD?

Why are EMFs being linked to autism and ADHD?

Research is emerging around how electromagnetic radiation (EMR) interacts with biological processes.

  • Dr. Martha Herbert, Harvard Neurologist, found potential links between autism spectrum conditions (ASCs) & EMR exposure.

  • Key findings:

    • Both show biological disruptions (oxidative stress, cellular damage).

    • Both involve altered brain activity (disrupted sleep, seizures, sensory issues).

  • Dr. Dietrich Klinghardt PhD identifies EMFs as one of the 7 key toxins to address in autism treatment.

The evidence from environmental health practitioners

At my recent Electromagnetic Radiation Specialist training in the USA, colleagues shared firsthand experiences of significant improvements in children when EMF exposure was reduced.

  • 3 key changes that made the biggest impact:

    • Wi-Fi & Bluetooth devices removed

    • Wired internet installed

    • Homes made electrically silent at night with demand switches

  • A recent study on Wi-Fi frequencies (2100 MHz) found statistically significant damage to the blood-brain barrier in animal models.

Simple steps to reduce EMF exposure at home

While we can’t control all external sources, we can take practical steps inside our homes to reduce unnecessary EMF exposure.

6 Ways to reduce EMF exposure in homes:

  • Hardwire your internet with shielded ethernet cables & disable Wi-Fi.

  • Relocate Wi-Fi routers away from sleeping areas & turn them off at night.

  • Keep Wi-Fi & Bluetooth off on phones when not in use.

  • Avoid power boards near beds.

  • Turn off & unplug electrical devices at night (or install a demand switch).

  • Opt for battery-operated alarm clocks rather than digital ones & avoid wireless baby monitors.

Why this matters for home designers & builders

  • Electroclimate is one of the 9 key factors I assess when evaluating building materials.

  • Forward-thinking home designers & builders are incorporating these considerations alongside air quality, material safety & moisture management to create truly health-supportive homes.

Where to learn more

If you're a home designer or builder, understanding how EMFs interact with materials & construction is becoming as important as managing mould risks & VOCs.

Best starting point?

The Healthy Building Materials Mastermind.

Ready to go deeper?

The Radiofrequency Radiation Course is the only course tailored to building industry professionals who want to design & build lower-EMF homes & confidently communicate with clients.

Zara D’Cotta is a Building Biology New Build Consultant, Keynote Speaker and Founder of The Healthy Home.

We envision an Australia where every home is a testament to health-centric design and construction. Our goal is to be the guiding light for time-strapped building industry professionals, ensuring every home designed and built under their watch prioritises the health and well-being of its occupants.