Magnesium deficiency is commonly found in people diagnosed with autism, one of several diagnoses that fall under the classification of autism spectrum disorders. This severe developmental disorder affects an estimated 1 in every 110 children in the United States, affecting their development of language and communication, behavior and social learning.
Autism
Autism is a developmental disorder that appears in early childhood, generally becoming evident before the age of 3. Autism affects development in three critical areas, according to MayoClinic.com. They include communication, behavior and social interaction. There is no one presentation of autism, with symptoms, and severity of symptoms, varying greatly from person to person. There is no cure for autism as of 2011.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral used by every organ in your body, especially your heart, muscles and kidneys, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Magnesium activates enzymes that create energy and it is also responsible for regulating levels of other nutrients in the body. Magnesium naturally occurs in a number of foods, including nuts, green leafy vegetables and grains. Several forms of magnesium are available in supplement form. Magnesium citrate is the preferred form of magnesium supplement, as it is more water-soluble and bioavailable than other forms.
Deficiency
Although magnesium deficiency is rare, children with autism may have lower serum magnesium levels than children without autism, according to the February 2006 edition of "Biological Trace Element Research." Magnesium deficiency creates a host of symptoms such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, irritability, confusion, nausea and vomiting. Magnesium deficiency may also cause low blood pressure, muscle spasms and weakness, trouble breathing, tachycardia, low blood pressure and restless leg syndrome.
Research
The Autism Research Institute outlined research conducted between 1965 and 2005, reviewing the use of magnesium as a treatment for autism. This research focuses on the use of magnesium, vitamin B-6 and a combination of the two. Research shows magnesium supplements, particularly when combined with vitamin B-6, prompted improvements in behavior and symptoms. The administration of magnesium, together with vitamin B-6 "results in better eye contact, less self-stimulatory behavior, more interest in the world, fewer tantrums and improved speech," according to the Developmental Delay Resources site.
References
- Autism: Studies of High Dosage Vitamin B6 and often with Magnesium in Autistic Children and Adults
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Autism Spectrum Disorders
- MayoClinic.com; Autism; 2010
- "Journal of the American College of Nutrition"; Magnesium Bioavailability from Magnesium Citrate and Magnesium Oxide; J.S. Lindberg, et al.; February 1990
- "Biological Trace Elemental Research"; Magnesium Profile in Autism; February 2006
