Children with autism consume less vitamin A and have more vitamin A deficiencies than typically developing children. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin that is vital for our vision, immune system, and gut microbiome.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. There are 20 amino acids, falling into essential and nonessential categories, each with their own functions to keep the body healthy. Extreme picky eaters may be at risk for amino acid deficiency.

Antioxidants are naturally occurring molecules that help fight free radicals that are produced when the body breaks down food and reacts to the environment. Children with autism are known to have an imbalance in free radical production and antioxidants, called oxidative stress. Eating a diet high in antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can help neutralize this free radical imbalance.

Vitamin B5 is essential for producing red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body, and helps produce energy by breaking down fats and carbohydrates. Research shows kids with autism are at risk for inadequate intake and low levels of vitamin B5. Adequate intake may benefit mood and help maintain metabolic processes.

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is important for neurotransmitters, cognitive development, and methylation, which are all important factors in ASD.

Biotin is an essential nutrient that helps the body break down nutrients for energy production. Recent studies have found that children with autism are at risk of biotin deficiency, which may affect cognitive performance and immune function. Supplementation may improve these concerns.

Folate is one of the most studied vitamins in relation to autism. Research shows that folate levels are often abnormal and folate receptors may be faulty in those with ASD. The MTHFR gene mutation and the microbiome both play important roles in folate status.

Individuals with autism frequently have low levels of B12, which may be caused by methylation issues or low stomach acid. Supplementation of the correct form of B12 can help methylation and help maintain metabolic balance.

Carnitine is an amino acid produced by the body and available in certain foods and nutrition supplements. Carnitine is vital for brain and mitochondrial function, both important for those with ASD. Some people with autism (10-20%) seem to have L-carnitine metabolism disorders and for these patients, a diet high in carnitine and dietary supplementation with L-carnitine is beneficial.

Children with autism are more likely to have calcium deficiency than children without autism. Restrictive diets (such as the dairy-free diet) or picky eating may increase the risk of calcium deficiency, or in severe cases, even rickets.

Choline is an essential dietary nutrient that is important for normal brain, nervous system and cellular function. Evidence suggests that children with autism have higher levels of choline deficiency, and supplementation may improve their receptive language skills.

Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is important for immune function, neurotransmitter and collagen production, as well as antioxidant status. Vitamin C deficiency has been documented clinically in children with autism with severely selective diets.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is an antioxidant that assists in energy production in our cells, heart health, and mitochondrial disease. In relation to autism, research has shown that supplementation with CoQ10 can improve symptoms of mitochondrial dysfunction.

Chromium is a trace mineral that is found in a wide variety of foods such as whole grains, meats, and vegetables and is responsible for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. While the research on chromium and autism is extremely limited, two studies found that children with ASD typically excrete high amounts of chromium in their urine and low amounts in their hair.

Copper may play a role as an antioxidant, protect against neurological conditions, and act as a treatment for some ASD symptoms. Some research has shown a significant alteration of trace elements in the gut microbiome of individuals diagnosed with ASD, but other research shows there is no difference in copper levels for children with autism.

Curcumin has been studied for its potential effects in a wide range of conditions from cancer to joint pain. However, curcumin’s ability to promote healthy gut bacteria, regulate neurobehavioral symptoms, and fight inflammation may be most notable for individuals with autism.