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Autism and vitamin D: is there a link?

Dr Karen Martin
Reviewed by Dr Karen MartinReviewed on 10.10.2024 | 3 minutes read
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Autism is a very emotional and difficult topic to discuss, but it is a common condition, affecting around 1 in 44 children in the US. Pediatricians get asked if certain things link to autism, but one topic that seems of particular interest is any possible link between vitamin D and autism. In this article, we will explore any evidence behind this link and the current focus of research on this.

Is autism more common now?

Diagnos of autism has increased all over the world. Rates have risen in particular since the 1990s, but it is very difficult to say if this is truly due to more children having autism, or whether we’ve gotten better at recognizing it early and testing for it. We’ve also broadened the term to include an umbrella of conditions known collectively as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), where previously Asperger's syndrome and others would have been considered a separate condition.

It should also be made clear that while all people with autism have certain difficulties in common, it will also affect them in different ways and to different levels of severity. While the label can be helpful in accessing help, and understanding one’s feelings and difficulties, it by no means defines someone, or their journey through life.

What if vitamin D levels are low during pregnancy?

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent, particularly in parts of the world where exposure to sunlight is limited. Researchers have looked at whether low vitamin D levels in mothers during pregnancy can increase the risk of a child developing autism. One study measured vitamin D in mothers’ blood during pregnancy, and another study measured vitamin D levels in the babies' blood five days after birth.

Both found an increased risk of developing autism where low vitamin D levels were present. To be clear, this does not mean that low vitamin D causes autism, only that its presence is linked with an increased likelihood of autism than in children born with normal vitamin D levels.

Can taking vitamin D in pregnancy prevent autism?

There is ongoing research into this question and sadly there is still no clear answer. A study has been conducted by giving mothers who have a child with autism vitamin D supplements during pregnancy. It showed some positive results in reducing the incidence of autism in newborn siblings, however this was a very small study without a control group or blinding, two key features used in more defining research. At this time it is unclear how much can be taken from this.

If my child is autistic, will vitamin D help?

There are people who advise giving vitamin D to promote development and for changes in autistic behavior. However, a small randomized controlled trial in Ireland in 2017 found no significant improvement after giving vitamin D supplements over a 20-week period.

This area requires continued research, but it's true that vitamin D rates are lower in children with autism when compared to children without autism. Vitamin D is low cost and low risk, and it’s recommended for all children in the winter months, and some ethnicities all year round. So it should be given strong consideration to optimize general health in children with autism. Additionally, vitamin D is safe to take in pregnancy and actually recommended for other known health benefits, so it's an added bonus if it is protective against autism.

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This article has been written by UK-based doctors and pharmacists, so some advice may not apply to US users and some suggested treatments may not be available. For more information, please see our T&Cs.
Dr Karen Martin
Reviewed by Dr Karen Martin
Reviewed on 10.10.2024
EmailFacebookPinterestTwitter