Essential Dietary Supplements for Autistic Children

By raluca.olariu@…, 1 February, 2022
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Autism spectrum disorder is an extremely challenging condition for parents and doctors. Children who suffer from autism may experience many different behaviors including social isolation, repetitive behavior, and difficulty communicating.

Also, according to the Autism Network, nearly one in five children with autism are on a special diet. While there is currently no cure for autism, there are ways to help improve the quality of life for these children. A study shows that vitamin supplementation may help reduce some of the symptoms associated with autism.

Read this article to learn more about how vitamins and dietary supplements can help relieve some of the symptoms associated with autism spectrum disorders.

What are common medical and nutritional challenges for kids with autism?

Gastrointestinal issues are very common symptoms in children with autism. Diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloating are often reported by parents. Food allergies, food intolerances, and food sensitivities are also common. A leaky gut syndrome may be present and nutrient deficiencies caused in general by some autistic kids' reluctance to a variety of food tastes and textures. 

Also, many kids with autism are sensitive to gluten and casein. These two proteins are found in wheat and dairy products. Some studies suggest that these foods could trigger gastrointestinal symptoms in some kids with autism.

Some kids with autism are sensitive or allergic to soy, eggs, nuts, fish, and shellfish. They may experience eczema, asthma, skin rashes, and hives after consuming these foods. Also, some kids with autism are sensitive, or even allergic, to milk. This can lead to diarrhea, stomach cramping, vomiting, and constipation.

Many kids with autism have trouble sleeping. Sleep disturbances are common among kids with autism. It is unclear why sleep difficulties occur so frequently among those with autism. However, one theory suggests that it may be related to sensory processing deficits.

Autism supplementation: An overview of current research

Autism supplements vary from person to patient but could be an important aspect of your child's care. Recent clinical studies show that supplements, when taken properly, can ease common symptoms autistic children experience from sleep disruption to GI distress and even behavioral concerns.

However, children with autism spectrum disorders should not take too many vitamins or minerals. Too much supplementation can lead to deficiencies. Careful attention must be paid to the amount of vitamin D and calcium needed by these children. Recent studies have shown that certain vitamins and minerals may be helpful in treating some of the core symptoms of autism. Also, it has been suggested that taking a multivitamin supplement daily may help prevent other health problems such as obesity and diabetes later on in life.

Read more: Best Supplements & Vitamins for Autism.

According to a study published in the journal Pediatrics, children with autism were found to have lower levels of vitamin B6 than their peers without autism. The researchers believe that low levels of vitamin B6 may contribute to the development of autism. This finding was supported by another recent study which showed that children with autism had lower levels of thiamine (vitamin B1) and riboflavin (vitamin B2).

In addition, a third study demonstrated that children with autism had higher levels of copper, which is known to inhibit the absorption of iron. Iron deficiency has also been linked to autism. In fact, according to the National Institutes of Health, iron deficiency is one of the top ten causes of developmental delays in children. It is estimated that approximately 20% of all children diagnosed with autism have iron-deficiency anemia.

The link between vitamins supplements and autism explained

There is no evidence that taking vitamin supplements while pregnant increases the risk of giving birth to a child with autism. However, there is strong evidence that eating a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables helps prevent autism. Scientists know that there is a moderate relationship between vitamin D and autism. However, it is difficult to study this relationship because of ethical reasons. Pregnant women are advised to take vitamin D supplements because it reduces the risk of preeclampsia, preterm birth, and autism. Vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy may be linked to an increased risk of having a child with autism. However, most mothers with low vitamin D had normal children.

As sunlight exposure helps the body to produce vitamin D, some research has looked into whether babies born during the winter months are more likely to develop autism. Studies show that 1.3% more children conceived during winter were diagnosed with autism, intellectual disability, or other developmental problems.

There is evidence linking iron supplements with autism. Iron is an essential component of hemoglobin, which enables blood to carry oxygen around your body and to a fetus’ developing brain. Anemia during pregnancy is linked to higher odds of autism, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and other disorders. Iron may protect against any negative effects from maternal inflammation.

Fish oils might be helpful for people who have problems with behavior. But more research needs to be done before we know if this is true for humans. Other fats may not be as beneficial as we thought. High-fat diets can cause harm to babies' brains and other types of fats might also be bad for our health.

You might also be interested in finding out What Are the Best Vitamins for Calming the Nervous System of an Autistic Child?

Prenatal vitamins do not cause any harm to babies as they help prevent birth defects and improve the baby's chances of survival. However, consultation with a doctor is always best for each woman.

Vitamins and minerals that may help treat autistic symptoms

A new study conducted at the University of California San Diego School of Medicine suggests that children with autism may benefit from a combination of three specific nutrients: omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and magnesium. Researchers gave eight children with mild to moderate autism either a placebo or a combination of omega-3s, zinc, and magnesium. After six months, they found that those given the combined treatment improved significantly in areas like language skills and social interaction.

Another study published in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics looked at the effects of vitamin B12 on children with autism. They found that after four weeks of supplementation, the children experienced improvements in communication skills and motor skills. Although more research needs to be done before we know exactly what role vitamins play in improving the lives of children with autism, experts say that taking multivitamins and mineral supplements each day may help prevent other health issues later in life.

Children with autism spectrum disorder may benefit from vitamins and minerals found in foods such as milk, eggs, fish, meat, beans, broccoli, spinach, oranges, tomatoes, carrots, and nuts. However, many children with ASD do not eat enough of these foods because they are difficult to chew or digest. Therefore, parents must carefully monitor their child’s diet to ensure adequate nutrition.

Which autism supplements do doctors recommend most often for children with autism?

A doctor's first priority when prescribing vitamins and minerals is to ensure that the patient gets enough of them. The doctor may want to know about the patient's diet so that they know what nutrients are missing. The doctor may also recommend certain vitamins and minerals based on the patient's symptoms. Your pediatrician may try to include vitamins and minerals in your child's diet before giving them supplements. When this isn't possible, they may give them in liquid, sublingually, chewable to swallow pills. It is crucial to seek guidance from your child's pediatrician.

Before starting your child on a supplementation regimen, you should first consult your child's doctor. Some supplements are more commonly recommended in kids with autism than others.

The most common supplements recommended for children with autism are:

  • Vitamin D – This vitamin helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are important for building strong bones and teeth. In addition, it has been shown to improve muscle tone and coordination.
  • Omega 3 Fatty Acids – These essential fats can help reduce inflammation in the brain. It is believed that inflammation plays an important role in the development of autism.
  • Zinc – Zinc is needed by the immune system and helps regulate growth hormones. Children with autism have lower levels of zinc compared to typical children.
  • Calcium – Calcium is needed for healthy bones and teeth. Many people with autism have problems chewing food properly. Therefore, they may need extra calcium through supplements.
  • Iron – Iron is needed for red blood cells and energy production. Low iron levels have been linked to aggression and hyperactivity.
  • Magnesium – Magnesium is needed for normal nerve function and muscle contraction. People with autism tend to have low magnesium levels.
  • Melatonin - This hormone regulates sleep cycles. Melatonin deficiency has been associated with many health issues including anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other behavioral disorders.

Autism is a disease that affects the brain. It causes problems with social skills, communication, and repetitive behaviors. Some people with autism also struggle with sleeping and eating. Vitamin D helps regulate serotonin levels in the body. Cod Liver Oil contains high amounts of vitamin A. Taking these two things together could help improve eye contact, behavior, and mood in autistic children.

Read also: 5 Top Ingredients That Boost Brain Development

Picky eaters need close attention to ensure they get enough vitamins and minerals. Their doctor or a registered dietitian will be able to tell them what they're missing and help them figure out how to supplement their diets.

Can too much folic acid cause autism?

Folic acid is a vitamin that helps prevent neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Too much folic acid during pregnancy may lead to nerve cell damage and brain abnormalities. This may be why some children who take folic acid prenatally develop autism. Further studies were recommended in 2011 but nothing was done about it.

Moreover, there have been no new studies since then. There are still many unanswered questions regarding the use of folic acid in pregnant women. However, if you believe your child has an increased risk of developing autism due to folic acid deficiency, you can talk to your doctor about taking folate supplements. Your doctor might suggest using a multivitamin instead of folic acid.

The Importance of a Healthy Gut for Autism

Gut health is important for everyone. Good gut bacteria help us digest foods properly. When we eat healthy foods, our bodies produce more good bacteria than when we eat unhealthy foods. This helps us feel better and sleep better. We also want to make sure we get enough fiber in our diet. Fiber helps us stay regular and makes us feel full longer.

For children with autism, having a healthy gut means getting enough fiber and probiotics. Probiotic supplements contain live cultures of beneficial bacteria that help keep our digestive system strong. These probiotics work by helping us absorb nutrients from food and keeping harmful bacteria at bay. Probiotics are not always safe for all kids with autism. They can cause diarrhea and other side effects. Talk to your doctor before adding probiotics to your child's routine.

Conclusion

Children with autism are commonly deficient in certain vitamins and minerals. Many parents find that giving their children a daily multi-vitamin and mineral supplement helps their child's symptoms. If you think your child needs extra nutrition support, ask your doctor about starting him or her on a multivitamin and mineral supplement. You should discuss any concerns you have with your doctor so he or she can monitor your child closely.

You can also read 5 Benefits of Vitamin C to learn more. 

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