Autism

A randomized-controlled trial conducted by Mazahery, Hajar, Conlon, Kathryn, et al evaluated the efficacy of vitamin D (VID), omega-3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 LCPUFA, OM), or both (VIDOM) on core symptoms of ASD. New Zealand children with ASD (n = 73; aged 2.5-8.0 years) received daily 2000 IU vitamin D3, 722 mg docosahexaenoic acid, both, or placebo. Outcome measures were Social Responsiveness Scale and Sensory Processing Measure. Of the 42 outcome measures comparisons, two showed greater improvements and four showed trends for greater improvements. Omega-3 LCPUFA with and without Vitamin D may improve some core symptoms of ASD but no definitive conclusions were made in this study.

A recent research report suggests that children ages 3-8 on the autism spectrum may benefit from zinc supplementation. In this 2019 study, 30 patients were treated with zinc supplementation and evaluated. The data suggests an increase in cognitive-motor performance and an increase3d serum metallothionein concentration as well as a significant lowering of circulating serum levels of copper.

For parents with limited time, ability, or resources to do this, Ken Siri and Tony Lyons have compiled the latest in autism research and treatment. Cutting-Edge Therapies for Autism contains contributions from more than eighty experts on a variety of therapies, models, and multifaceted evaluation and treatment centers.

Neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), dyslexia, learning disabilities and developmental delays affect a significant percentage of children and are associated with long-term psychological and physical disability. ASD research has primarily concentrated on and continues to concentrate on genetic causes of ASD. Recent studies have expanded the recognition of the abnormalities associated with ASD, implicating broader systemic issues involving immune and redox dysregulation, oxidative stress and impaired energy generation systems.