Autism is a complex disorder and its cause is not known. Some experts theorize that the diet of children may affect their autistic symptoms. Studies have examined the effects of vitamin B-12 on children with autism. However, vitamin B12 supplements have not been proven to be an effective treatment for autism.
Vitamin B-12 Function
Cobalamin, which is another name for vitamin B-12, is one of the largest vitamins. You need vitamin B-12 for a variety of functions, including the manufacture of the amino acid methionine. Methionine, in turn, is needed for the body to make DNA, which is important for making new cells and for controlling development. You also need vitamin B-12 in order to maintain the health of your nervous system. A lack of vitamin B-12 can cause nerve problems.
Autism
Autism is a developmental disorder that typically occurs during the first three years of life. Autism impairs the development of the parts of the brain that control communications and social skills. Genetics appear to play an important role in the development of autism, as a child with an autistic sibling is more likely to be autistic, but genetics alone does not cause autism. Many different factors, including diet, vitamin and mineral levels, digestive tract problems and vaccines have all been posited to be triggers for autism, though none have been conclusively proved to be linked to autism.
Autism and Vitamin B-12
Many children with autism have lower levels of a substance known as glutathione, a molecule in the body that helps to protect cells against oxidative damage. One role of vitamin B-12 is to help maintain glutathione levels, so in theory, vitamin B-12 could help in the treatment of autism. A study published in a 2010 issue of the "Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine" examined the effects of vitamin B-12 supplementation on autistic children. Although this study found no scientifically significant effects in the children who received vitamin B-12, though some of the children who got vitamin B-12 did show some improvement in their autism symptoms.
Considerations
Although vitamin B-12 may be able to help autistic children get over some of their symptoms, its effects have not been conclusively proved. Autism is a complex disorder that may require many different treatments to help a child's development, so it is unlikely that vitamin B-12 alone will cure autism. Vitamin B-12 is relatively non-toxic, but you should talk to your doctor before giving vitamin B-12 supplements to a child.
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