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.

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.

Fluoride is a mineral that helps protect our teeth from dental caries and supports healthy bone mineralization. The most concentrated sources of fluoride are drinking water and toothpaste. Some studies have shown that fluoride and aluminum can exacerbate symptoms of ASD by worsening excitotoxicity and inflammation, and excess fluoride may affect cognitive development in children.

Iodine is an element found in food and supplements that the body uses to make thyroid hormones. These hormones have many functions including controlling the body’s metabolism. Children who are on a dairy-free diet, are selective eaters, and/or do not use iodized salt may be at increased risk of iodine deficiency.

Iron deficiency anemia, one of the most common nutrient deficiencies in the world, can cause symptoms such as fatigue, slow growth, or pica (eating non-food items). Iron should be a concern for those not consuming meat.

Magnesium can be a great way to naturally treat many comorbid conditions in autism such as anxiety, hyperactivity, and constipation. Magnesium can also be used topically or as Epsom salt baths.

Manganese is a trace element involved in bone formation, reproduction, immune responses, and the metabolism of amino acids, cholesterol, and glucose. Some studies have shown low levels of manganese and high levels of lead to be associated with more incidences of ASD and/or ADHD.

Molybdenum is a trace mineral found in foods like grains, legumes, nuts, leafy vegetables, organ meats, and dairy. Optimal molybdenum levels can help prevent toxins from building up in the body. While the research on molybdenum and autism is limited, one study showed elevated hair levels of molybdenum were inversely correlated with cognitive levels.

Phosphorus is the second most plentiful mineral found in the body. Phosphorus helps maintain strong bones and teeth, assists in energizing us, and makes up our DNA. Studies have shown that children with ASD consume significantly less phosphorus than typically developing children.

Potassium is an essential dietary mineral and electrolyte that is crucial for the normal functioning of cells, including nerves. Recent studies reveal that children with autism have lower intakes of dietary potassium, and that an increased consumption of high potassium foods may improve bone health.

Selenium plays a role in DNA synthesis, thyroid function, reproduction, and helps protect us from infection. Research has shown that individuals with ASD tend to have lower levels of selenium in their hair and blood, as do individuals classified as overweight/obese.

Trace minerals, also called trace elements or trace metals, are minerals found in small amounts in living tissues. Children with autism have been found to have lower levels of certain trace minerals which may impact growth, brain function, and inflammation.

Dietary zinc and zinc supplementation has been identified to have a therapeutic effect for individuals with ASD. Pica is associated with low levels of zinc and/or iron, which can cause children to crave non-food items.