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Vitamins for Kids With Asperger's

Jun 14, 2011 | By Jan Millehan
Vitamins for Kids With Asperger's
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Asperger's Syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder, can produce symptoms including difficulty socializing with others. Approximately one in 110 children in the United States has an autism spectrum disorder, according to a March 2011 report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Several vitamins may benefit some children with Asperger's. However, researchers have primarily focused on vitamins B-6 and C for use in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders.

Asperger's Syndrome

Asperger's syndrome affects a child's ability to relate effectively to others. Children with Asperger's fall within the mild range of autism spectrum disorders, or ASDs -- a group of pervasive developmental disorders characterized by deficits in social and communication skills. According to the Mayo Clinic, Asperger's children commonly exhibit symptoms such as difficulty conversing with others, lack of eye contact, difficulty understanding humor, poor coordination and an obsession with one or two subjects, such as baseball statistics and snakes. Vitamins B-6 and C may improve the symptoms of Asperger's syndrome.

Alternative Vitamin Treatments

As of May 2011, no changes have been made in a report from 2009, which states that only one medication has been approved by the FDA for the specific treatment of ASDs. As a result, many parents of children with Asperger's syndrome have turned to unconventional treatment options, such as vitamins. Researchers identified studies of novel and emerging treatments for ASDs -- including vitamins B-6 and C -- and published their findings in the December 2009 edition of the journal "Annals of Clinical Psychiatry." Treatments received grades of A, B or C based on the supporting, validated evidence available. Vitamin C received a grade of "B" -- supported by at least one randomized-controlled trial or at least two nonrandomized trials. Vitamin B-6, taken with magnesium, received a grade of "C," which was supported by at least one nonrandomized-controlled trial or two case series. In addition, researchers stated that the nutrients they reviewed are commonly used to treat ASDs.

Vitamin B-6

Interest in the potential use of vitamin B-6 for the treatment of autism spectrum disorders, such as Asperger's, stemmed from research conducted in 1960s. Research conducted in 1978 by psychologist and autism authority Bernard Rimland, featured in the newsletter "Autism Research Review International," observed the effects of megavitamin therapy on autistic children. In one observation, 16 autistic children received dosages of vitamin B-6 ranging from 300 mg to 500 mg daily -- along with magnesium and a multiple-B tablet to help prevent side effects. The children demonstrated a wide range of benefits, including improved eye contact, less self-stimulating behavior and an enhanced interest in the surrounding world. The children who improved when taking vitamin B-6 needed extra vitamin B-6 in their bodies, according to Rimland.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, widely known for its ability to boost the immune system, may also help children with Asperger's syndrome, according to developmental pediatrician Mary N. Megson. Megson cites a 1967 autism study by Dr. Rimland where participants received vitamins B-3, B-5, B-6 and a very low dosage -- 1 g to 3 g -- of vitamin C. Positive testing results were attributed to the effects of vitamin B-6. Higher doses of vitamin C, however, may produce more favorable results. Megson also cites a 1993 study by neuropsychologist Michelle Dolske, which observed the effects of vitamin C on 18 autistic children of ages 6 to 19. Subjects received 52 mg per day during the 30 week trial. Research produced statistically significant improvement on the various outcomes measured, according to Megson.

References

Article reviewed by GlennK Last updated on: Jun 14, 2011

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