Autism is a developmental disorder commonly diagnosed in early childhood. Problems with communication and social interactions and failure to make eye contact are some of the classic symptoms of autism. While the cause of autism is unknown, some experts in the medical community suspect certain vitamin deficiencies may be at least partially responsible.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency may contribute to autism. A report published in "Medical Hypothesis" in 2008 says the apparent increase in the prevalence of autism over the last 20 years corresponds with increasing medical advice to avoid sun exposure, which is a natural source of vitamin D. Study author J.J.Cannell of Atascadero State Hospital in California, points out that animal research has shown time and again that severe vitamin D deficiency during gestation created brain abnormalities in rat pups similar to those found in autistic children.
Vitamin B-6
People with autism may have low levels of the phosphate form of pyridoxal coenzyme, which belongs to the vitamin B-6 family. A study published in August 2005 in the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary and Medicine" says autistic children who received vitamin B-6 supplementation had statistically significant improvements in sleep and gastrointestinal problems compared to a placebo group.
Autistic children have a higher rate of gastrointestinal disorders than other children and may also be prone to sleep problems. The study involved 20 children ages 3 to 8. The lead researcher was J.B. Adams of Arizona State University.
Recommendations
Talk to your child's doctor before using vitamins to help to treat the symptoms of autism. High doses of vitamins should be given only under a doctor' s supervision, cautions the University of Maryland Medical Center. Make sure your child is still eating a nutritionally balanced diet and getting enough calories. A registered dietitian who specializes in autism can help you make certain your child is getting sufficient vitamins and minerals from food.
Considerations
The potential benefit of taking vitamin supplements or eating special restrictive diets that eliminate food allergens and certain proteins like gluten for autism remains uncertain. More research is necessary to determine what, if any, effect such complementary measures may have on the condition. Behavioral therapy and medications such as antidepressants may relieve symptoms of autism.
References
- Mayo Clinic; May 27, 2010; Autism-Alternative Medicine
- Medline Plus; Autism; April 7, 2011
- Medical Hypothesis; 2008; Autism and vitamin D; J.J. Cannell
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Autism
- Journal of Alternative and Complementary and Medicine; August 2005 Pilot study;J.B. Adams, C. Holloway;
- Medical Dictionary: Pyridoxal 5-Phosphate
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