Autism is a disorder that affects the normal development of the brain and typically appears in children within the first three to five years of life. Although the cause of autism remains unknown, researchers believe genetics, nutrition, vaccine sensitivities and mercury poisoning all might play a role in its development and expression. Treating autism usually consists of medications, speech therapy, occupational therapy and counseling. Multivitamins might benefit children with autism, especially those with vitamins A, B-6, C and D, but they are not intended as a treatment for autism and should be taken only under supervision of a physician.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A and its constituent, retinol, might be beneficial to people suffering from autism. Many people with autism experience retinopathy, or retina damage, which can cause blurred vision, temporary blindness and frequent headaches. Vitamin A and retinol might help restore damaged retinas in autistic patients, which might improve vision and reduce the frequency and severity of headaches. Vitamin A also might help autistic people in other areas as well, including improvement in attention and overall energy.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 and its two forms, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine, are essential for use in many body processes. Vitamin B-6 acts as a precursor to pyridoxal 5-phosphate, or PLP, an energy-producing compound. The enzymes used to convert vitamin B-6 into PLP might be blocked in people with autism. PLP is important in the natural production in the brain of the neurotransmitter dopamine, which is responsible for emotions and behavior. Supplementing with vitamin B-6 might help increase the production of PLP, thereby increasing dopamine, which might have a positive effect on mood and energy in autistic people.
Vitamin C
Many people with autism also suffer from a vitamin C deficiency. Vitamin C might improve the symptoms and effects of autism in several ways. Vitamin C might have a calming effect on behavior by balancing out several hormones and neurotransmitters in the brain, especially serotonin, dopamine and growth hormone. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, removing potentially damaging toxins and free radicals, which studies suggest the bodies of children with autism might have difficulty in doing. The presence of free radicals in your body can increase the risk of tissue damage.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is primarily obtained through sunlight in the form of vitamin D-3 but also can be obtained through fortified grains, dairy products and cereals. A deficiency in vitamin D might play a role in the early development of autism. Vitamin D during the gestation process as well as in early infancy is important for the normal development and functioning of your brain. Women with a severe vitamin D deficiency while pregnant might increase their risk of having a child with autism.
References
- Pub Med Health; Autism; 2010
- "Human Anatomy and Physiology"; Elaine N. Marieb; 2004
- Healing Thresholds; Autism Therapy: Vitamin B6; 2009
- "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport"; Melvin H. Williams; 2002
- Healing Thresholds; Autism Therapy: Vitamin C; 2009
