All about Supplements and Behavior

(For Autism & ADHD)

It’s common sense (and research proven):  If our bodies receive optimal nutrition, they function at their best.  However, what do we know about the connection between nutrition and behavior?  Right now, not much.

Right off the bat, let me say that the research evidence regarding the effects of nutritional supplements on behavior is not yet solid.  (That was the data-based professional part of me speaking in the previous sentence.)  As a professional who is also a parent, I hear and read testimonials of other parents who found improvements in behavior when their child followed a regimen of nutritional supplementation (certain vitamins, minerals, enzymes, etc.).  It appears as if this strategy does work with some kids to some extent.  I offer the information below with scientific cautions and parental enthusiasm.

Suggestive evidence is emerging that nutritional supplements and restrictive diets have a beneficial effect on the well-being and actions of kids with behavioral challenges and disorders.  Many parents and professionals are reporting the results of their own nutritional interventions with children who display undesirable behaviors. They tell us that their children’s behavior is directly connected to the foods eaten.  In their personal nutritional research, they have found that the avoidance of some substances (food dyes, preservatives, gluten, soy, yeast, starch, etc.), and the taking of certain supplements helps to prevent or reduce worrisome behaviors.

If you are leery of prescription drugs due to the side effects and other concerns, you might want to give natural supplements a try.  However, before engaging in a regimen of adding vitamins, minerals, and/or other supplements to your child's diet, it is best to obtain a clinical and laboratory (especially blood) assessment of his/her nutritional status (vitamin & mineral levels).  It is also a good idea to consult your child's pediatrician and work with someone who is knowledgeable in nutrition.  Remember that some vitamins and minerals are “water soluble” (ingest too much and you pee them out).  Others are “fat soluble” (excess get stored in the body fat and can cause health concerns).  Large doses of vitamins, minerals, and other substances need to be administered knowledgeably.  Changes in diet bring about adjustments (not always positive) within the body.


Nutrition and Autism

Many parents report improvement in the behavioral symptoms of autism when nutritional supplements are used.  The thought is that there may be nutrient absorption problems that create nutritional deficiencies.  A few studies suggest that persistent intestinal and gastrointestinal problems may reduce the absorption of essential nutrients, causing disorders in immunity and general metabolic functions. Other investigations have shown that some kids with autism may have low levels of vitamins A, B1, B3, B5, as well as nutrients such as biotin, magnesium, selenium, and zinc

Others may have an out-of-balance serum copper to plasma zinc ratios, which suggest that taking extra zinc might boost their immune system. Some studies have indicated a that increase calcium intake might help.

Vitamin B is probably the most common supplement, because it plays an essential role in creating enzymes utilized by the brain. The general consensus in a score of studies pertaining to vitamin B (and magnesium, which promotes the effectiveness of vitamin B) nearly half of autistic individuals improved.  Improved how?  Benefits were found in reduction of undesirable behaviors, improved eye contact, greater attention, and enhancement in learning.

 

 

 Other research-based outcomes show that fish oil (a good source of vitamins A and D) has improved eye contact and behavior in kids on the autistic spectrum. Vitamin C appears to help brain function and decrease confusion and depressive symptoms. Vitamin C supplementation was shown in one clinical trial to decrease the severity of symptoms in youngsters with autism. A small (16 youngsters with autism) pilot study that utilized a multivitamin & mineral combination found improvements in sleep patterns, gastrointestinal issues, language, eye contact, and behavior.


“Probiotics” and essential fatty acids also have some evidence pointing to improved behavior.

 

 

Dietary Interventions and Autism

Some kids with autism have low tolerance for, or allergies due to certain foods or chemicals.  They don’t cause autism, but they may very well contribute to behavioral issues.  Many parents and professionals have reported significant changes when certain substances have been eliminated from their child's diet.

Gluten and casein are commonly reported culprits.  Gluten is found in grains such as oats, wheat, and rye.  Casein is in dairy products. If there is an incomplete breakdown of the substances, and/or an excessive absorption of peptides, certain biochemical and neurological processes in the brain can be disrupted.  Parents who want to implement a gluten-free or casein-free diet should consult a gastroenterologist or certified nutritionist, who can help ensure proper nutrition.

Some sources hypothesize that kids with autism have "leaky gut" syndrome; tiny perforations in the intestines caused by uncontrolled growth of yeast. They believe that this overgrowth contributes to behavioral and medical problems in many individuals with autism.  Some of the identified symptoms are hyperactivity, confusion, fatigue, and stomach problems. Nutritional supplements and a yeast-free diet may reduce the behavioral problems.

Click here to read a summary of a recent study regarding Gluten-free and Casein-Free Diets with Youngsters who have ASD

 

Nutrition and ADHD

A clinical study on 100 children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) demonstrated that those with lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids had more learning and behavioral problems such as tantrums. Fish (salmon, sardine, or tuna) and nut oils are the main source of omega-3 fatty acids. (See the ad for Fish Oil capsules above)

Iron
There may be a connection between low iron levels and low dopramine levels in the brain.  In one study, 84% of children with ADHD possessed abnormally low levels of iron compared to only 18% of children without Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. "Iron and Your Child,"(published in KidsHealth, Author: Konofal), states that children 1 to 12 years old need 10 milligrams of iron per day, while adolescent boys need 11 milligrams, and adolescent girls need 15 milligrams per day. Fish, red meat, leafy greens, and cereals are good sources of iron.  Many multi-vitamins contain iron.  Be cautious about iron pills are sold in stores.  It may be too much, to quickly. Your trusted source for quality nutritional supplements.

Vitamin B6 and Magnesium
An article titled "Vitamin B6 and Magnesium" (Autism Research Institute), states that vitamin B6 and magnesium help to reduce behavioral problems in youngsters with autism.  A good number of scientific studies with autistic youngsters documented an improvement in behavior and normalization of brain function due to the intake of vitamin B6 and magnesium.  Irritability seems to be related to magnesium deficiencies. Parents have also reported that their children with autism are more attentive and learn better when given B6 and magnesium supplements. Your trusted source for quality nutritional supplements.

Research report on ADHD & Diet: Study published in the Lancet Medical Journal reports 64% of ADHD due to diet.

Research report on dyes in food & how they create more of the active behavior in kids with ADHD

 

Shop for Natural, Vegetarian, Dye free, Preservative free, Gluten free products here.

This is where I, Dr. Mac, order vitamins & nutritional supplements for my family. "Cindy", the woman who handles the orders, can be counted on to get the items to you quickly and securely. She's also available to answer your questions.

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