Autism refers to a group of disorders that affect behaviors, language and social learning. Some approaches to support a child with an autism spectrum disorder include behavioral therapies, family support, educational therapies, speech and language therapy, and special diets. Dietary supplements, such as vitamin B-6 and magnesium, may reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Autism
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1 in 110 children in the United States have an autism spectrum disorder. Autism symptoms range from mild to severe, affecting behavior, communication and social interactions. Autism is a complex neurological disorder that has no cure, notes MayoClinic.com. Early and intensive intervention improves prognosis and severity of symptoms, but each child progresses differently. According to MayoClinic.com, there is no one therapy that is effective for all children with autism.
Vitamin B-6 and Magnesium
Vitamin B-6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that assists your immune system in producing antibodies, and it helps to maintain normal nerve function and form red blood cells. Vitamin B-6 is essential in breaking down proteins in the body, so the more protein that you consume, the more B-6 you need. Your body uses vitamin B-6 in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which is of interest for researches studying neurological disorders. Magnesium is a mineral used by all the organs in your body, particularly your heart, muscles and kidneys. Magnesium plays a role in activating enzymes, contributing to energy production and regulating levels of other nutrients in the body.
Research
The Autism Research Institute reviewed research conducted between 1965 and 2005 on the use of vitamin B-6 and magnesium for autism, finding support for the effective use of these supplements with some children. The institute reported positive results for vitamin B-6 alone, or used with magnesium, in 21 of the 22 studies reviewed. High doses of vitamin B-6 consistently improved symptoms in approximately half of the sample of autistic children studied. The administration of vitamin B-6 and magnesium together, reports the Developmental Delay Resources website, "results in better eye contact, less self-stimulatory behavior, more interest in the world, fewer tantrums and improved speech."
Considerations
Vitamin B-6 users may experience mild side effects, such as increased irritability, but reports suggest that this side effect is lessened when B-6 is paired with magnesium. More severe effects, such as sensory neuropathy at doses as low as 500 mg, are possible. Neuropathy reverses once vitamin B-6 supplementation ceases, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. Magnesium supplementation also presents potential side effects, such as dizziness and breathing difficulties. Magnesium may interfere with some medications, such as antibiotics and diabetes medications. The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that you should not administer magnesium to a child unless supervised by a physician.
References
- MayoClinic.com; Can Special Diets Help Children Who Have Autism?; Jay L. Hoecker, M.D.; January 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Autism; May 2010
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs)
- Food for the Brain: Autism
- Autism Research Institute: Studies of High-Dosage Vitamin B-6, Often with Magnesium, in Autistic Children and Adults
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Vitamin B6 - Overview
