Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) have long been prescribed vitamins, minerals, and natural supplements. These are mainly given to help with sleep and gastrointestinal distress and boost low vitamin levels.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that many biomedical interventions require diet changes. These may include avoiding certain foods or using vitamin or mineral supplements for autism.
The CDC stresses that, while remedies that work for one child may not work for another, dietary changes or supplements are a worthwhile option to explore.
Do autism supplements work?
A study that surveyed 539 physicians found that vitamin and mineral supplements were one of the most widely recommended medical interventions for autism. They were recommended by 49% of physicians for children with autism.
However, there has recently been an increase in clinical studies assessing the benefits of autism supplements in children that extend beyond their sleep and digestion.
Eye contact, behavior, and depression have recently been noted to have improved in some children with autism who take cod liver oil (rich in vitamins D and A).
Beyond the issues specific to autism, most Western diets are deficient in key vitamins and minerals, including:
- iron,
- B vitamins (B6, B12, and folate),
- antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E,
- vitamin D, and
- minerals, magnesium, and calcium.
Children, both with ASD and neurotypical, require a comprehensive diet filled with vitamins and minerals during this time of growth and brain development.
Picky eaters will require closer monitoring of their vitamin and mineral intake to be sure they are receiving all the nutrition necessary.
Your child’s doctor or a registered dietician will be able to tell you where your child is lacking nutritionally, mostly through bloodwork. They’ll help you make a plan to fill in the gaps in their diet.
Most commonly recommended autism supplements for children
A doctor’s first priority when recommending vitamin and mineral supplements is usually to identify gaps in the child’s diet.
Your child’s pediatrician might ask you to keep a log of your child’s eating for a week or two so that they can get an idea of what your child enjoys. That way, they’ll be able to determine what vitamins and minerals are present in those foods.
It can be helpful to write a list of foods your child dislikes and refuses to eat as well. This list might include textures, food groups, or flavors in addition to specific food items.
It is important to note that while some children may get plenty of vitamins A, E, D, and K, they are fat-soluble vitamins. This means that if your child does not eat enough fat, they will not be able to absorb these vitamins.
A child who eats a vegan or vegetarian diet may be lacking in B12 as it is found only in animal products. A pediatrician may try to incorporate lacking vitamins and minerals into your child’s diet before going to a supplement.
However, when this is not possible, your pediatrician may prescribe vitamins in liquid, sublingual, chewable, or swallowable pill form.
It is crucial to seek guidance from your child’s pediatrician before starting your child on a supplement regimen and wean your child on to higher doses of supplements.
If supplements are suggested, they will be specific to your child’s unique nutrition and body. However, some are more commonly recommended in children with ASD than others.
Melatonin for autism
About half of children with ASD struggle with sleep. There are a variety of factors that may contribute to this, including:
- anxiety,
- an irregular circadian rhythm,
- medication side effects,
- Hyperactivity, and more.
Melatonin is a supplement that aids in sleep and wake cycle regulation. It is a hormone found naturally in the body and produced in the pineal gland in the brain.
Melatonin can be naturally found in some fish and eggs but is most plentiful in nuts, seeds, and bananas—all of which make excellent evening snacks.
However, when foods containing melatonin are limited and the brain is not producing it correctly, your pediatrician may suggest a supplement. Melatonin is available over the counter is and is most commonly a sublingual (dissolves under the tongue).
A specific dosage can be recommended by your doctor and is usually buildable based on your child’s needs.
Can probiotics for autism ease some of the symptoms?
Gastrointestinal (GI) distress is another common problem many children with ASD face. According to the CDC, children with ASD are three and a half times more likely to experience GI complications than their neurotypical peers.
Some researchers believe there is a link between gut bacteria to autism severity. However, this is still debated within the medical community, and much of the evidence is anecdotal.
Children who experience frequent, prolonged, or chronic GI distress should be evaluated by their pediatrician, who may refer them to a gastroenterologist for further testing. The doctor may prescribe a probiotic, specifically a Bacteroides fragilis probiotic.
When studied in animals with ASD-like behaviors, Bacteroides fragilis probiotic was found to:
- reverse ASD-related behaviors,
- normalize gut microbiota, and
- improve gut barrier integrity.
These findings have not been confirmed in humans. However, some doctors are prescribing Bacteroides fragilis probiotics and finding it to ease symptoms in children.
Can too much folic acid cause autism?
A 2011 study looked into whether too much folic acid during pregnancy (from prenatal supplements) or after birth could be linked to autism. The results were unclear, and more research was needed.
However, the study confirmed that too little folic acid can damage the nervous system. Because of this, it suggested that too much folic acid might also harm nervous tissue in a way that could be related to autism.
It may be helpful to check your child’s folic acid levels through a blood test to ensure they are getting the right amount.
Although more research was recommended in 2011, no clear evidence has been published since.
Using B6 and magnesium to manage autism symptoms
More than a dozen studies have suggested that supplementing vitamin B6 and magnesium in children with autism helps to ease symptoms. However, the treatment remains controversial as each child’s body will react differently to varying interventions.
The theory is that a child with ASD may show improved behavior once vitamin B6 and magnesium are introduced into the diet.
While several well-controlled studies noted this improvement, the specific improvements were inconsistent and ranged from better eye contact to increased impulse control and improved social interactions and communication.
Both B6 and magnesium levels should be monitored in children with autism, whether they are on a supplement or not, as magnesium levels tend to be lower in children with ASD. It is required for the proper absorption and use of B6 in the body. Both are essential nutrients.
Autism supplements for speech
Some parents and professionals explore dietary supplements to support speech development in autistic children. While these supplements are not a cure, they may promote overall well-being, potentially improving communication.
Several supplements are commonly considered for speech support in autism. Omega-3 fatty acids help with brain function and may improve communication. Vitamin D is essential for brain development and has been linked to better social skills.
Probiotics support gut health, which can influence behavior and speech. Magnesium and zinc play key roles in calming the nervous system and supporting cognitive function, while a combination of vitamin B6 and magnesium may enhance neurotransmitter activity.
Other supplements like melatonin improve sleep, which can help with focus and communication. L-carnitine supports energy production in the brain, while folinic acid aids neurotransmitter function, both of which may benefit speech.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC) helps reduce oxidative stress, potentially improving behavior and language skills.
Autism supplements for stimming
Researchers have been exploring the potential of nutritional supplements to help reduce stimming behaviors. However, it’s important to remember that stimming is a natural coping mechanism that does not always need to be reduced.
Early studies suggest that certain supplements, including antioxidants, may support the body’s natural processes and improve symptoms.
Some supplements have shown promising results in both animal and human studies. For example, research using animal models suggests that Korean Red Ginseng, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may help reduce repetitive behaviors.
While more research is needed, scientists are particularly interested in the potential benefits of curcumin and quercetin, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
Large-scale clinical trials will be necessary to confirm their effectiveness, but early findings suggest that these supplements could be useful for some autistic individuals who experience stimming.
Given their low risk, they may be worth considering for those who do not respond well to traditional therapies.
Starting your child on a supplement regimen
Your first step when exploring autism supplements for your child should always be a pediatrician or a registered dietician. It is crucial to monitor your child’s responses to different supplements as some can interact with other medications, be dangerous at too high of a dose, or simply not work well in your child’s body.
A blood test or urine test is the most accurate way to track your child’s vitamin levels and should be performed as often as your child’s doctor recommends. This ensures
that your child’s supplements are being taken at a therapeutic level.
Your child’s teacher, psychiatrist, psychologist, or occupational therapist will likely benefit from being aware of the supplements your child takes. They will help you note potential changes in your child’s health and behavior.
FAQs
Q: What vitamin deficiency is most common in autism?
A: Vitamin D deficiency is one of the most common in autistic individuals. Other common deficiencies include B6, B12, and folate, which can affect neurological function and overall health.
Q: What supplements reduce stimming?
A: Magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamin B6 are often suggested to help reduce stimming by supporting nervous system regulation. However, the effectiveness of supplements varies, and stimming is a natural coping mechanism that does not always need to be reduced.
Q: Can too much folic acid cause autism?
A: There is no conclusive evidence that excessive folic acid causes autism, but some studies suggest high prenatal levels may influence neurodevelopment. Balanced folate intake during pregnancy is important, as both deficiency and excess could have potential effects.
Q: Is sugar bad for autistic children?
A: Sugar does not directly cause autism symptoms, but some autistic children may experience behavioral changes or digestive issues due to sensitivities. A balanced diet with minimal processed sugars can help regulate mood, energy, and gut health.
Other articles you may be interested in:
- Can Omega-3 Fatty Acids Boost Neurocognitive Health and Mental Performance?
- Benefits of L-Carnosine for Autistic Children
- Trehalose: The Promising Supplement You’ve Never Heard About
- Vitamin/Mineral Supplements for Children and Adults with Autism
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