Hearing about the diagnosis of autism, especially for a patient, can be really heartbreaking. This disease usually lasts lifelong and prevents a child from developing cognitive as well as behavioral properly.
A person with ASD will always attempt to isolate themselves from the outer world and create a world within themselves. Maintaining such a detached persona can lead to depression and cause severe social anxiety to your child.
So, how should you prepare for it?
Being open with your child and communicating closely with them can definitely help you take care of the behavioral issues to some extent. However, only relying upon a single aspect will not be beneficial.
Additionally, you will have to let them go through a proper treatment plan, focus on their nutrition, and include supplements in their diet.
Let’s learn about the whole situation a little more elaborately.
What is autism?
Autism spectrum disorder, or simply autism, is a health condition that affects a child’s social, communicational, and behavioral skills. While it might not seem so, the disease is pretty mysterious in its own accord.
For example, as of now, the exact cause of autism hasn’t been found yet. Although many doctors consider that the issue can be influenced by environmental and genetic factors, no one has proven anything yet.
Besides, contrary to other brain-related ailments, an individual with autism will have a set of strengths. For instance, being interested in arts or other similar endeavors is pretty prevalent amongst people with special needs.
Connection between autism and vitamin supplements
In essence, autism and vitamin supplements do not have any direct connection between them. Nonetheless, there might be some instances where the latter can influence the development of the disease indirectly.
For example, prenatal vitamins generally ensure that the fetus has everything that it needs to develop correctly. However, as per a research module, too much – or too little – of some substances can increase the kid’s chances of having autism during the pregnancy period.
That’s not all, though.
There are some other studies that show a possible connection between autism, vitamins, and supplements. Keep reading and learn more!
Connection between autism and vitamin D
According to some research modules, vitamin D and autism are modestly connected to each other. As per a 1930-study, intaking halibut liver oil, a product enriched in vitamin D, during pregnancy reduces the occurrence of preterm birth. It can lower the risk of preeclampsia, which is related to autism, to some extent, too.
Another recent research has shown that a deficiency of vitamin D in the mother can increase the risk of ASD in the fetus.
A study has shown that taking vitamin D supplements during the second or third trimester doesn’t help with this issue at all. For that, you will need to take the same from the beginning or before the pregnancy period.
Connection between autism and folate
Folic acid, the synthetic form of folate, is crucial for cell proliferation during pregnancy. If you have an insufficient level of folate in your body, it can cause neural tube defects, such as anencephaly and spina bifida. Each of these issues can increase the risk of autism.
Nonetheless, a report suggests that taking excessive folic acid can also boost the odds of autism in some people. Although it doesn’t mean you should avoid this element entirely – consult with a nutritionist and take as much as you need.
Connection between iron supplements and autism
Iron deficiency, or anemia, during pregnancy, can lead to ADHD and intellectual disability in children due to inefficient brain development. It, in turn, may increase the risk of autism in the fetus to some extent.
Connection between omega-3 acids and autism
Fatty acids like omega-3 help reinforce the cell membranes and boost the communication between neurons. Nevertheless, if it’s available at a lower level in your body, it may impact your malnutrition-related issues massively. In some cases, this issue might lead to altering gene expression and increase the odds of autism in your child.
Takeaway
As per a report, almost half of the pregnancies tend to be unplanned. Therefore, it might be difficult for the parents to understand what or when you should take the supplements. In some cases, there’s no clear information available in this regard. If you are a parent looking for vitamins supplements for your child, luckily there are numerous popular formulas already on the market.
For example, taking folate will only be ideal if you are doing it before and right after the conception. Nevertheless, the right time to take vitamin D is still unclear, like most other supplementary nutrients.
Due to this reason, consulting with a nutritionist is always the best option for every individual.
Adam Mulligan did his degree in psychology at the University of Hertfordshire. He is interested in psychology, mental health, and wellness.
