Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a form of developmental disorder characterized by deficits in social skills and language. The condition exists in various subtypes that affect about one in seventy children within the United States. The underlying causes may be environmental, genetic or both. Some of the associated symptoms may include sleep disturbances, seizures and a number of sensory abnormalities. Several natural supplements for autistic children have been identified.
Omega 3 fatty acids are among the most commonly prescribed nutrients. The backing of this practice is the available anecdotal evidence that a number of children living with the condition have indeed benefited from the administration of the supplement. As a matter of fact, a significant number of physicians now use the supplement routinely in their management of the condition. A number of randomized controlled trials, however, suggest that the supplement is only beneficial to a select group of patients.
Phospholipid fatty acids are a part of cell membranes of all body cells. Research has shown that abnormalities in the metabolism of these membranes may indeed be a contributing factor of some of ASD symptoms. Other findings also show that the levels of these fatty acids are lower in ASD children compared to those without it. Dietary sources include butter, margarine, potato chips and processed meats among others.
Several vitamins have also been found to be quite effective. The main ones include vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Vitamin B6, pyridoxine, has mainly been shown to improve sleep patterns and gastrointestinal function in ASD patients. It is also said to have some benefits in neural function. More levels of B6 increase the formation of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter in the brain. The levels of dopamine are relatively lower in ASD patients.
Vitamin C is also important for the production of neurotransmitters. In addition, it is claimed to have a calming effect on the patients. Rich sources of vitamin B6 include pork, bread, eggs, soya beans, whole cereals, poultry and vegetables among others. Sources of vitamin C are mostly fruits such as pineapple, strawberries, mangoes and citrus fruits and juices. Vitamin supplements are available as the B complex of vitamins.
Proteins are made of amino acids. A deficiency of amino acids, therefore, results in lower levels of proteins with their associated abnormalities. Amino acids are important in the formation of neurotransmitters. With the exception of glutamic acid, phosphoserine and glycine, most of the other amino acids are reduced in patients with autistic disorders. This means that their ability to synthesize neurotransmitters is reduced hence the need to supplement.
Minor supplements that are often included include carnosine and magnesium. Low doses of carnosine have been shown to cause an improvement in picture recognition and vocabulary. Magnesium deficiencies are associated with neurological deficits. When given to ASD children, the supplement significantly improved the symptoms.
Nutrition therapy should be looked at as a small part of the overall management of autism spectrum disorder. It is treatment that has to be considered alongside all the other forms of therapy including behavioural therapies, occupational therapy and the use of drugs. Each of them plays a role and collectively, holistic treatment can be achieved. It is advisable to use the supplements in close consultation with the primary doctor.
Omega 3 fatty acids are among the most commonly prescribed nutrients. The backing of this practice is the available anecdotal evidence that a number of children living with the condition have indeed benefited from the administration of the supplement. As a matter of fact, a significant number of physicians now use the supplement routinely in their management of the condition. A number of randomized controlled trials, however, suggest that the supplement is only beneficial to a select group of patients.
Phospholipid fatty acids are a part of cell membranes of all body cells. Research has shown that abnormalities in the metabolism of these membranes may indeed be a contributing factor of some of ASD symptoms. Other findings also show that the levels of these fatty acids are lower in ASD children compared to those without it. Dietary sources include butter, margarine, potato chips and processed meats among others.
Several vitamins have also been found to be quite effective. The main ones include vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Vitamin B6, pyridoxine, has mainly been shown to improve sleep patterns and gastrointestinal function in ASD patients. It is also said to have some benefits in neural function. More levels of B6 increase the formation of dopamine, an important neurotransmitter in the brain. The levels of dopamine are relatively lower in ASD patients.
Vitamin C is also important for the production of neurotransmitters. In addition, it is claimed to have a calming effect on the patients. Rich sources of vitamin B6 include pork, bread, eggs, soya beans, whole cereals, poultry and vegetables among others. Sources of vitamin C are mostly fruits such as pineapple, strawberries, mangoes and citrus fruits and juices. Vitamin supplements are available as the B complex of vitamins.
Proteins are made of amino acids. A deficiency of amino acids, therefore, results in lower levels of proteins with their associated abnormalities. Amino acids are important in the formation of neurotransmitters. With the exception of glutamic acid, phosphoserine and glycine, most of the other amino acids are reduced in patients with autistic disorders. This means that their ability to synthesize neurotransmitters is reduced hence the need to supplement.
Minor supplements that are often included include carnosine and magnesium. Low doses of carnosine have been shown to cause an improvement in picture recognition and vocabulary. Magnesium deficiencies are associated with neurological deficits. When given to ASD children, the supplement significantly improved the symptoms.
Nutrition therapy should be looked at as a small part of the overall management of autism spectrum disorder. It is treatment that has to be considered alongside all the other forms of therapy including behavioural therapies, occupational therapy and the use of drugs. Each of them plays a role and collectively, holistic treatment can be achieved. It is advisable to use the supplements in close consultation with the primary doctor.
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