Autism spectrum disorder is a particular developmental disorder where the child suffers from a lot of both health and behavior-related conditions. Studies have found that 1 out of 40 children suffers from autism spectrum disorder or ASD. Children with autism suffer a lot when it comes to leading a normal life, just like any other normal child. Although society is becoming more considerate about their conditions, they are still not treated as normal human beings.
Yes, they might have some special needs, but they are also like any other individual. There are different types of ASD, and on the basis of the type, they are offered different treatment approaches. Although this particular condition can not be treated completely, with some proper treatment approaches, therapies, and medications, their condition might improve a little. This encourages them to lead an almost normal life.
Autism Spectrum Vitamins & Minerals Guide
Children with autism often develop a liking for some particular foods like processed starch and fast foods. At the same time, they avoid some specific food or food group. As a result, they lack several essential nutrients.
In this case, the best way to get the essential nutrients is by supplementing them. As a parent, you can either opt for supplements or include those foods in your child’s diet. Here is a vitamin and minerals guide for you that you should follow for your autistic child.
Vitamin D
It has been found that vitamin D has effects on neurotransmitters in the human brain to help improve cognitive performance especially in growing children with autism. Neurotransmitters help to develop new connections along with strengthening the existing connections. Several studies have found that autistic children are often deficient in vitamin D. A recent study has shown that autistic children, who had provided vitamin D supplements on a daily basis, showed improved signs with the core symptoms of autism.
Oxytocin
Our brain naturally produces the chemical oxytocin. This specific chemical has a significant effect on the part of the brain that is associated with social interactions and social bonding. Some evidence states that a compromised oxytocin system has been found in some children with ASD. More research is required to determine why only some children show this. Studies also have found that autistic children who get oxytocin treatment have shown some improvements.
Vitamin B6 And Magnesium
Vitamin B6 is crucial for improving more than 60 types of biological processes in our bodies. Usually, all those multivitamins contain Vitamin B6, but they still can be supplemented. There is a particular enzyme named PLP, which is responsible for breaking Vitamin B6.
Now, individuals with ASD often show low levels of PLP. This specific enzyme is also needed for the production of dopamine, which helps to control the brain’s reward system causing the child to get even more excited, eg: Seeing a toy robot or something similar for the first time. In order to absorb Vitamin B6, magnesium is required. That is why they both are supplemented together.
Melatonin
Melatonin is a particular hormone that is responsible for regulating the sleep cycle and wake cycle. Most of the time, autistic children have difficulties with sleep. A relation has been found between low melatonin levels and the severity of ASD symptoms in individuals.
As per research, melatonin supplementations in autistic children have provided promising results. It also can improve sleep quality and duration, which eventually leads to more positive daytime behaviors.
Vitamin B-12
Whether it is the functioning of your nervous system or the overall body, Vitamin B12 plays a huge role. It has the capability of acting on particular pathways within the brain, resulting in more power for specific brain processes.
It also has been found that individuals with developmental delays have an impairment that is related to processing vitamin B12 in the body. In these cases, B12 is given as an injection in order to stimulate the impaired pathways. Supplementation also works for autistic children.
Vitamin C
We all are aware of the fact that Vitamin c is crucial for our immune system. Apart from that, it also plays a crucial role in the production of neurotransmitters. Research has shown that children with ASD might have a deficiency of Vitamin C.
As a result, their body finds it difficult to fight off free radicals in their body. It might always cause an imbalance in the body. A study found that children with ASD who have been provided Vitamin C supplements have shown a significant reduction in stereotypical behaviors like flapping hands, pacing, and rocking.
Final Talks
So, you see, children with autism often suffer from different deficiencies of different nutrients. And the most effective way to fill the gap is by offering them supplements. Studies also have found positive results in a lot of children and improvement in their behaviors after providing necessary supplements.
But we will always advise you to consult with your doctor first before including any supplement in your child’s diet.
