Vitamin D deficiency occurs at a higher rate in individuals with ASD, and may correlate with ASD severity. Supplementation showed improvements in behavior, stereotypy, eye contact, and attention span.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant known for its role in protecting cells, tissues, and organs from damage and immune-enhancing activity. Studies suggest that children with autism are at risk for vitamin E depletion, and that recommended intake has the potential to protect brain function.

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.

Individuals with ASD may have lower levels of the antioxidant glutathione, which may contribute to overall oxidative stress, immune dysfunction, and may lead to neurodevelopmental abnormalities.

The primary function of calories is to provide energy for the body. Children with ASD have been shown to either consume too many or too few calories/nutrients and therefore have been shown to be at an increased risk of becoming overweight/obese or malnourished.

Carbohydrates provide energy for our bodies and brains. Carbohydrate quality can vary between foods, so choosing the right carbohydrates can improve health in children with ASD.

Our brains are made up of 60% fat, making them our fattiest organ! Brain health is especially important in autism, and choosing the right type of fats can either promote or reduce inflammation.

Many children with ASD do not meet daily fiber needs. Increasing dietary fiber can help improve digestive health, promote a healthy weight, and control blood sugars.

Up to 60% of a child’s body is made up of water, including vital organs like the skin, heart, muscles, kidneys, and brain. Children who are not properly hydrated are at higher risk for constipation, fatigue, and dry skin.

Protein is vital for proper growth & development, as well as bone and muscle health. Due to texture preferences, selective eaters may avoid tender protein foods, like meat. Children with ASD may have a hard time digesting protein, which could potentially cause GI discomfort and behavioral issues.

Inositol is sometimes referred to as vitamin B8 and it is important for the integrity of cell membranes, mental health and blood sugar regulation.

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients that are anti-inflammatory and important for brain and heart health. They have the most research of all fatty acids in connection to autism. Certain studies show a variety of improvements including social interaction, repetitive and restricted interests, behaviors, stereotypy, lethargy, improved nonverbal intellectual ability, restlessness, agitation, irritability, and self-injurious behaviors.

Omega-6 is an essential fatty acid involved in cell membrane structure and activity, as well as brain development. Due to the fact that many foods contain both omega-6 and omega-3 together, it can be challenging to associate the effects of omega-6 alone in research studies. Focusing on the omega-6 ratio of the diet by emphasizing alternative fat sources is key.

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.

Vitamin K has long been recognized for its vital role in blood clotting and the building of bones. Research indicates risks for vitamin K deficiency in autism, and supplementation may potentially improve autism-related nutritional and metabolic processes.

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.