Autism, or autism spectrum disorder, is a range of different neurodevelopment disorders. According to Autism Speaks, autism affects one in every 110 children and is diagnosed more often in boys than in girls. Autism is the fastest-growing developmental disability in the United States, though it receives very little research funding compared to other childhood diseases. There is no cure for autism, but researchers are looking for possible treatments, such as carnitine, to treat and reduce symptoms.
Autism
Autism is a neurological disorder that is characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties and repetitive behavior. Autistic disorder is the most severe type of autism spectrum disorders while Asperger syndrome is a milder form. Autism spectrum disorders are diagnosed in childhood, and some of the signs to look for include impaired social reaction, such as a lack of interest in people, and repetitive behaviors such as rocking or twirling. Self-abusive behavior, such as head-banging or biting, can also be a sign. Speech is usually delayed in children with autism. There is no cure for autism, and current treatments include educational and behavioral interventions and medications to treat symptoms such as anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Carnitine
Carnitine, also known as L-carnatine or levocarnitine, is a nutrient that aids your body in turning fat into energy. It is produced by your body in the liver and kidneys but is stored in the skeletal muscles, brain and heart. While the body produces carnitine, some conditions and medications can affect your body's ability to make enough and supplements may be required. Carnitine is used to treat a variety of conditions and works to reduce oxidative stress, similar to antioxidants. Carnitine is found naturally in red meats, dairy products, fish, poultry, wheat, asparagus, avocados and peanut butter as well as supplements.
Medical Research
Researchers are looking at ways to treat autism, and one such treatment that has shown promise is the supplementation of carnitine. A 2011 study published in "Medical Science Monitor" looked at the use of levocarnitine supplements in the treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Using 30 subjects diagnosed with autism, the researchers divided them into two groups. The first group received 50 mg of L-carnitine per kilogram or their body weight while the other group received a placebo. This was administered over the course of three months. The results showed that those receiving the L-carnitine had significant reduction in autism spectrum disorder severity based on clinical measurements. Positive improvements were shown in muscle strength, cognitive scores and on the Childhood Autism Rating Scale, or CARS.
Considerations
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, carnitine supplements and dosage vary based on conditions. The usual dosage for adults is between 1 and 3 grams per day, however, they advise that children should not be administered L-carnitine without a physician's supervision. Talk with your physician about the possible benefits of L-carnitine and the treatment of autism. He will be able to advise a proper dosage and monitor changes in symptoms.
References
- Autism Speaks: Facts About Autism
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke; Autism Fact Sheet; June 15, 2011
- "Medical Science Monitor"; A Prospective Double-Blind, Randomized Clinical Trial of Levocarnitine to Treat Autism Spectrum Disorders; DA Geier et al; June 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Carnitine (L-carnitine); March 20, 2009
