Vitamin B6 And Magnesium Combined Therapy
The use of large doses of vitamin B6 was first reported to improve speech and language in children diagnosed with “autism syndrome” in the late 1960s. 13 Over the next three decades, a variety of studies were conducted in attempts to show that children with autism significantly improved on a regimen of Vitamin B6 with magnesium. Most of these reported positive outcomes, and called for more research to be conducted. 14,15,16 At least two studies found that children with autism had high levels of B6 in their blood — evidence that their bodies were not efficiently converting the vitamin, and providing a reason why more B6 might prove helpful. 17,18
Unfortunately, most of these studies were not conducted in an ideal way. They were either non-randomized, had no control group, were not “blind”, or were very small. Two more recent studies, which were randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled, suggested that B6 and magnesium did not have a statistically significant effect. 19,20 Another, which focused on children with Asperger’s Syndrome and PDD-NOS, found Vitamin B6 appeared to increase verbal IQ scores, although it did not improve social functioning. 21 In brief, results of various studies on the usefulness of Vitamin B6 and magnesium have been contradictory and confusing.
Studies On Mthfr Polymorphisms And Asds
On the other hand, an important consideration clarified the role of the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and ASDs . A population-based case-control study in Chinese Han assessed the frequency of genotype MTHFR 677TT in 372 children. The frequency of these genotype in children with autism was significantly higher than those in controls , suggesting that MTHFR C677T is a risk factor for autism in children of this population .
El-Baz investigated C677T and A1298C polymorphic genotypes of the MTHFR gene showing a significant association between severity and occurrence of autism . Patients had highest heterozygosity for A1298C polymorphism , with respect to mutant genotype CC and normal AA type . Allele C appeared in patients more than in controls . Patients had highest heterozygosity for C667T polymorphism compared to wild type genotypes CC and mutant genotypes TT . Allele T was detected more in patients than controls . Furthermore, heterozygosity for CT and AC genotypes were detected equally among patients with severe autism .
Nac 1200 Milligrams A Day In Two Divided Doses Titrated Up Over 2 Weeks For Treatment Or 900 To 2700 Milligrams In Divided Doses Titrated Up Over 12 Weeks
NAC works on multiple pathways that impact mental health disorders. It increases levels of the antioxidant glutathione, reduces inflammation, and normalizes glutamate concentration and transmission, which in combination improves nerve cell health and cellular energy function. This is exemplified by some evidence showing it can help with drug addiction, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder, and its also being tested for Alzheimers and Parkinsons.
A recent well-done but small trial with 40 children and adolescents with ASD found that 1,200 milligrams of effervescent NAC per day along with the drug risperidone resulted in decreased levels of irritability after 8 weeks. Side effects were low and similar between the two groups tested, but the risperidone-plus- NAC cohort had more incidences of constipation, increased appetite, nervousness, and daytime drowsiness than the risperidone-plus-placebo group.
This study backed up an earlier 12-week study from Stanford University where 31 children with autism were given 900 milligrams of NAC or placebo once daily for 4 weeks, then 900 milligrams twice a day for 4 weeks, and then 900 milligrams three times a day for 4 more weeks. The researchers found significant improvements in irritability in the NAC group with no significant side effect difference compared to the placebo .
Read Also: Where To Buy Vitamin E
Smartypants Kids Complete Multi
This multivitamin sets itself apart from the crowd by including a vitamin that most dont! Aside from containing 13 essential nutrients, the SmartyPants Kids Complete Multivitamin also includes wild caught omega-3 fish oil, which is key for brain health. For some reason, Omega-3 is difficult to find in a multivitamin and helpful for children with autism. This multivitamin is manufactured in California, uses premium ingredients, and most importantly, it leaves out all of the not so healthy stuff. No synthetic colors, artificial flavors, preservatives, or sweeteners. This multivitamin rules!
Can Nutritional Supplements Help Treat Some Cases Of Autism
Emily SingerSpectrum
THIS ARTICLE IS MORE THAN FIVE YEARS OLD
This article is more than five years old. Autism research – and science in general – is constantly evolving, so older articles may contain information or theories that have been reevaluated since their original publication date.
Pill potential: There is little hard evidence on the benefit of different nutritional supplements for autism.
The mention of nutritional supplements to treat autism might make some scientists wary. Little rigorous research has been done on their effects, and what research exists is often inconclusive.
In the past year, however, researchers have found specific genetic problems that point toward a metabolic deficiency in some cases of autism. These studies open up the possibility that supplements such as carnitine or certain amino acids may help treat autism.
The findings are exciting because they suggest that some forms of autism may be preventable. But scientists dont yet have data on whether supplementing the diet in these cases can prevent the disorder or improve symptoms. Nor do they know whether the potential benefits will be limited to those with specific genetic deficiencies or be effective more broadly.
Some teams are looking more rigorously at the benefit of supplements across a larger population.
Despite the promise, scientists say its important to tread carefully and keep expectations in check.
We had people tell us, I know you said dont start this, but we did,’ he says.
You May Like: What Vitamins Help Acne Go Away
Why Lump Autism And Adhd Together
Both Autism Spectrum Disorder and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder are highly inheritable neurodevelopmental disorders that Research has identified many similarities in prevalence, higher incidence in males, sensory processing issues, sleep disturbances, abnormal neural connections, and difficulties with impulse and motor control.
For years, scientists have debated whether Autism and ADHD represent one condition on a large continuum, or two separate conditions with the same roots. Similar genetic mutations have been found in both disorders, further contributing to the belief that ASD and ADHD are merely different manifestations of one disorder .
Some of the current theories on the cause of Autism are also shared with ADHD, and include genetics, impaired methylation, heavy metal toxicity, androgen metabolism, and the gut-brain axis.
Both disorders have a high frequency of co-occurrence with 20-50% of children with ADHD meeting criteria for ASD and 30-80% of ASD children meeting criteria for ADHD.
Studies On The Frequency Of Serum Fraa In Asd Children
contains the results obtained in three human studies investigating the frequency of FRAA in ASD children . The first cohort study includes 40 ASDs children and 42 gender-age matched typical development children, age range of 2 to 6 years. The author found that serum FRAA concentration in ASD children was higher than in TD children , where 77.5% of children with ASDs and 54.8% of TD children were positive for serum FRAA . In the second study, Ramaekers et al., assessed additional parameters analyzing serum and CSF folate, serum vitamin B12, homocysteine and amino acids concentration, serum, and CSF FRAA and FR1 and FR2 genes. Results highlighted that all 25 age-matched controls were negative for FRAA, while 19 out of the 23 patients with low CSF 5MTHF had serum FRAA with a mean value of 1.05 pmol FR blocked/mL serum . Furthermore, treatment with folinic acid in these patients led to partial or complete recovery from ASDs in early diagnosed cases . An improvement in verbal communication was found by Frye et al. in his cohort of non-syndromic ASD children through folinic acid treatment.
Recommended Reading: Are Life Extension Vitamins Made In China
Use Caution With Alternative Treatments
Use caution when using alternative treatments for autism. Products like Agape may offer excellent benefits, but they aren’t necessarily a replacement for evidence-based treatments.
It is important to note that the Association for Science in Autism Treatment states that vitamin B6 with magnesium has been found ineffective in changing behavior in three different studies. However, the studies do warrant more research. According to ASAT, “No well-designed studies have evaluated other vitamin and supplement therapies for individuals with autism spectrum disorders.”
While vitamin supplements may be a great idea for individuals on the spectrum, it is necessary to consider side effects. In addition, very high doses of vitamins can lead to overdose.
Bh4 1 To 20 Milligrams Per Kilogram Of Body Weight For Treatment
BH4 is involved in the degradation of the amino acid phenylalanine . But it turns out that BH4 may operate in other human pathways, including metabolizing cellular by- products that might be harmful to neural connections in the brain and producing certain neurotransmitters and even nitric oxide.
Abnormal changes in all of these pathways may increase the risk of ASD, and low concentrations of BH4 in the central nervous system have been found in individuals with ASD.
There has been a minimal amount of preliminary research with BH4 in children with autism at a dosage of 1 to 3 milligrams per kilogram of body weight, and a hint of improvement in social interaction and IQ over 3 to 6 months was seen. I initially had trouble jumping on this bandwagon until a better, but small, randomized trial from Emory School of Medicine came out.
In it, children with ASD were given 20 milligrams per kilogram of body weight of BH4 per day or a placebo for 16 weeks. Although there was no difference in overall improvement between the groups by the end, the investigators did find significant improvements in the BH4 group in the areas of social awareness, autism mannerisms, hyperactivity, and inappropriate speech. Best of all, the side effects were similar to the placebo. Another small study from the Arkansas Childrens Hospital Research Institute using sapropterin also found benefits at 20 milligrams per kilogram a day.
Don’t Miss: Is Vitamin D Good For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Vitamin B12 For The Treatment Of Autism
by Dr. Brian Udell | Last updated Jul 8, 2020 | Published on Sep 6, 2011 | > ALL< , Alternative and Complementary Medicine for ASD, Autism Therapies, Diets, Patient experiences, Vitamin B12 |
Does vitamin B12 really do anything for autism? is a question that comes up many times in the practice of providing biomedical treatments. Sometimes, the desire to use B12 is even the primary driving force that brings patients to our office. At the DAN! 2004 conference, Methyl-B12 was awarded most recommended medical treatment.
Here are the top questions and answers about vitamin B12 that I encounter in the practice:
The Best Vitamins For Autism And Adhd
There are many different treatments available to help ease some of the symptoms of autism, including various types of therapies. These therapies include play-based therapy, applied behavior analysis , Speech & Language, Art, Equine, etc.
With new studies showing a possible gut-brain connection, many families look to diets and supplements for autism to help. So, are there vitamins for autism that can help?
Also Check: What Foods Give Vitamin C
Are There Other Nutritional Factors At Play Maybe Fatty Acids
Fatty acids reinforce cell membranes and ensure proper communication between neurons.
Some parents of autistic children swear by fish oil supplements to help ease behavioral issues, but the research is spotty.
Docosahexaenoic acid , an omega-3 fatty acid found in oily fish, may offset the effects of maternal malnutrition or stress, both of which can alter gene expression and contribute to autism odds, according to a mouse study.
Other fats may not have the same protective effects. A high-fat diet during pregnancy can lead to persistent, potentially harmful brain changes in mouse pups, according to one study. Some of the brain areas affected in this study include behavioral circuits associated with autism.
Liquid Vitamin Formulas For Autism
Liquid vitamin formulas for autism are available, including “research-based” supplements.
Agape is a vitamin supplement specifically for people with autism. Dr. Cindy Schneider, the Medical Director for The Center for Autism Research and Education , developed the formula. She is a parent of two children on the autism spectrum.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Enough Vitamin C
Increase Omega 3 Fats
Deficiencies in essential fats are common in people with autism. Research by Dr Gordon Bell at Stirling University has shown that some autistic children have an enzymatic defect that removes essential fats from brain cell membranes more quickly than it should10. This means that autistic individuals are likely to need a higher intake of essential fats. It has been found that supplementing EPA, which can slow the activity of the defective enzyme, has clinically improved behaviour, mood, imagination, spontaneous speech, sleep patterns and focus in autistic children. There have since been clinical trials testing omega-3 supplementation, which have found that when children with autism were given omega-3 supplements, improvements in symptoms such as hyperactivity, social ability, concentration, irritability and aggression were reported 11,12.
Side effects? Causes loose stools in sensitive individuals if they are started on too high a dose.
Contraindications with medication? Essential fats may have a blood-thinning effect and should not be mixed with blood thinning medication, such as warfarin or heparin. Always consult your doctor before commencing a new supplement.
Supplements For Kids With Autism May Lead To Nutrient Imbalances
In largest study of its kind, Autism Speaks ATN researchers find too-high levels of some vitamins and minerals, not enough of others
In the largest study of its kind, researchers with the Autism Speaks Autism Treatment Network found that supplements and special diets for children with autism commonly result in excessive amounts of some nutrients and deficiencies in others. In particular, they found that many of the children in their study were consuming high and potentially unsafe levels of vitamin A, folic acid and zinc while not getting enough calcium and vitamin D.
The study appears this week in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The research was supported through the ATNs role as the federally funded Autism Intervention Research Network on Physical Health .
Few children with autism spectrum disorder need most of the micronutrients they are commonly given as multivitamins, says lead researcher Patricia Stewart, a nutritionist in the Autism Speaks ATN at the University of Rochester Medical Center. often leads to excess intake that may place children at risk for adverse effects. When supplements are used, careful attention should be given to adequacy of vitamin D and calcium intake.
A nutritionist trained the childrens caregivers to keep detailed diaries of all foods, drinks and supplements consumed. This included recipes, brand names and photographs of nutritional supplement labels. The researchers then analyzed three days of food records.
Read Also: What Vitamin Helps With Varicose Veins
Yummy Bears Organics Multivitamin For Kids
This complete multivitamin is organic, yummy, and one of the best on the market. The Yummy Bears Organics Multivitamin contains 16 essential nutrients to properly aid in healthy growth and development in kids. These multivitamins include vitamin A, C, D3, E, B6, B12, biotin, calcium, magnesium, zinc, and so much more. This incredible combination will promote a healthy immune system, help build strong bones, boost energy levels, and so much more.
The Top 5 Best Dietary Supplements To Help With Autism
Before you know your child is on the autism spectrum, they may display signs of being a picky eater. They may refuse certain foods, often fruits or vegetables, but sometimes foods with certain textures or that are served at certain temperatures. You may struggle to get them to add foods to their diet at the same rate that their neurotypical peers try new foods.
Once your child has been diagnosed with autism, some of these food struggles make more sense. You can try different approaches to helping them get balanced nutrition and overcome feeding problems.
One way that many parents ensure their children have balanced nutrition is by giving them dietary supplements. These supplements can help to reduce digestive problems and improve overall health. As the child feels physically better, their behaviors may improve, which can help them feel better about adding new foods to their diet.
Here are the most recommended dietary supplements to help with autism:
Also Check: What Vitamins Should I Take After Gallbladder Removal
Patch Supplements For Autism
The Focus Plus Topical Patch was developed in partnership with Barry Smeltzer, a doctor who wanted to find a better way of providing nutritional support to children with autism. Vitamin patches allow you to bypass the major issues related to compliance since they are tolerated much better than tablets. They also remove the worry of giving your child excessive amounts of vitamin pills.
The Focus Plus Topical Patch combines several nutrients into one patch so they no longer need to take multiple tablets each day. It contains vitamin A, C, and D, along with B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12. Simply attach it directly to the skin and allow the nutrients to be absorbed over the following 8 hours. This not only provides an initial nutrient boost but delivers a sustained release over time which allows the body to fully metabolize the contents at its own pace. Theyre also gluten-free and certified suitable for numerous types of allergy and intolerance.
