Specific micronutrient deficiencies in children with autism spectrum disorders: a literature review

General Medicine, 2024, 26(5), 26-33.

D. Marinov, R. Chamova

Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Faculty of Public Healthcare, Medical University “Prof. Dr Paraskev Stoyanov” – Varna

Abstract. Autism is a complex neuro-psychiatric disorder characterized by problems in social communication and repetitive behavioral patterns. Although the causes of autism remain unknown, there is a growing interest in the role of nutritional deficiencies in relation to development in autism. This study focuses on laboratory confirmed micronutrient deficiencies in children with autism compared to the general child population. A narrative review of articles published between 2003 and 2023 was conducted, and studies that did not m the conceptual framework of the study were excluded. The final selection comprised 34 articles conducted in 17 different countries analyzing differences in micronutrient levels in children with autism compared with those with typical development. The studies showed varied results regarding the levels of different micronutrients in children with autism. Significantly lower levels of vitamin D were observed, as well as differences in levels of vitamins A and E and B vitamins. Concerning the electrolytes calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium and the micronutrients iron, zinc and iodine, the results are contradictory. The data suggest that there are trends towards specific vitamin and mineral deficiencies in autism.

Key words: autism spectrum disorders, autism, micronutrients, vitamins, children, vitamin D

Address for correspondence: Senior Assist. Dimitar Marinov, MD, PhD, e-mail: dr.marinov.md@gmail.com