The autistic spectrum includes a range of developmental disorders ranging from Asperger's syndrome to general autism. No known cause or cure for autism presently exists, although biological, psychological and geographical factors are believed to contribute to the development of autism. Relatively low levels of the essential minerals calcium and magnesium may be observed in patients with autism -- this may be caused by dietary, behavioral or digestive factors. Consult your doctor before making any significant changes to your diet or supplementation regimen.
Calcium
There is more calcium in the human body than any other mineral, according to the online medical encyclopedia MedLine Plus. Most of the calcium in your body is stored in your bones and teeth. Calcium plays a variety of important roles in your body's functioning, including a signalling or messaging function within your nervous system. Calcium can be taken as a supplement, or through dietary intake of foods such as dairy products, and green leafy vegetables.
Magnesium
Magnesium has several important roles in your body's functioning. These include controlling the contraction and relaxation of your muscles, energy production and transportation, and the production of protein. Rich dietary sources of magnesium include leafy green vegetables, fruits including bananas and avocados, nuts, legumes and soy. It is relatively uncommon for a person to experience magnesium deficiency -- some of the symptoms of such a deficiency are hyperexcitability and sleepiness.
Autism and Digestion
According to an article by Mark Brudnak in the October 2003 issue of "Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients," diet and digestion problems are relatively common in patients with autistic spectrum disorders. Brudnak indicates that children with autism often only incompletely digest dairy and wheat proteins. Poor digestion and absorption of nutrients may cause a person with autism to be deficient in calcium or magnesium, even when their dietary intake of these minerals is sufficient. Additionally, calcium or magnesium deficiencies may arise when a person with autism is particularly selective about food.
Diagnostic Potential
A study published in the March 1985 issue of the "Journal of Mental Deficiency Research" indicates that analysis of trace elements in the hair of children with autism may be a useful diagnostic tool. This study examined the levels of 14 different elements present in hair samples from children with autism, children without autism, and children with autistic-like symptoms. The children with autism, and the children with autistic-like symptoms, were found to have significantly lower levels of calcium, magnesium, chromium, manganese and copper in their hair than children without autism. The children with autistic-like symptoms also had lower levels of magnesium than non-autistic children.
References
- "Journal of Mental Deficiency Research"; Trace Element Concentrations in Hair from Autistic Children; L. Wecker et al.; March 1985
- MedLine Plus: Calcium
- MedLine Plus: Magnesium in Diet
- "Townsend Letter for Doctors and Patients"; Beneficial Effects of Enzyme-based Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorders; M.A. Brudnak et al.; 2003
- "Child Care, Health and Development"; Symptomatic Nutritional Rickets in a Teenager with Autistic Spectrum Disorder.; C. Stewart, A. Latif; March 2008
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