I wonder if some clefts may be caused by undiagnosed Celiac mothers with low vitamin levels caused by malabsorption. These mothers could very well be folic acid along with other vitamin and mineral deficient.
I also read an article discussing Biotin and zinc deficiency. I found it interesting when they discussed short small intestines as during my last EGD, my Gastroenterologist commented on how short my small intestine was.
http://www.uams.edu/newsbureau/2003/Januar...irthdefects.htm
QUOTE
A biochemist at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) College of Medicine is leading the study of how biotin, a micronutrient found in liver, egg yolk, milk, and yeast, may affect fetal development. There appears to be a link between the pregnant woman’s biotin intake and cleft palates, in which the roof of the baby’s mouth is split. There also may be a link to severely shortened arms and legs.
I have gold star Celiac Disease and was born with a cleft palate. I am one of two children in our family born with the same cleft palate. My brother said he was tested for Celiac Disease but was told he did not have it. He is also a DQ2 and DQ1 0603 like me. I also have 2 brothers with type one juvenile diabetes. One is a DQ2 and DQ8 and one is a DQ2 and DQ1 0603
My mother is a DQ2 and DQ1 0603 and my Father is a DQ2 and DQ8. I am a DQ2 from my father and a DQ 1 0603 from my mother.
I know this post won't get much action but if there are any other Celiacs with cleft palates, I hope they will stop by and post any related information that might help with research in this area. Also if anyone comes across related information I would hope they stop and post the links. Thanks