Autism and importance of Vitamin D

Shahmika Agoon Faulkner
(Nutritionist, Kinesiologist, Trauma release specialist, Law – of  –Attraction Mentor)

Introduction

The journey with Autism has begun when my only son was diagnosed with autism spectrum at the age of three. My son is now 14. It has been a roller coaster journey because autism brought a lot of challenges with it. He could not speak; he couldn’t look at my eyes. Eyes were far away; he couldn’t even look at my face. He couldn’t look at his own mother’s face! He couldn’t look in anything. As a mt another it was heart breaking but being a nutritionist, I started to search different pathways. My son used to eat nothing. He used to ea few chicken balls, lots of chocolates, fruit juice, or, he would remain hungry. He wouldn’t eat the homemade food either. It had to be from certain company’s one. So, I knew that he didn’t have enough nutrition in his body. I decided to make him a nourished boy. My journey started from there. My son’s health condition started to change within six months after I changed his diet and made him nourished. I will write about my journey and his autism journey.

My son has improved hugely. He can speak properly. He has written books, and they are available in Amazon. My son has started to write books during Covid lockdown time since he was 11 years old. Healthy food and Nutrition changed my son’s Autism. I faced a lot of criticism by his dad’s family, by GP, speech therapist that time. 11 years back Scenario. My GP told me that I was just wasting my time that autism cannot get better. The same GP hugged me after five years when she experienced the massive improvement in my son. The same GP stood up from her chair and hugged me. I am happy to share my journey with you who wants to try differently. Today I am writing about Vitamin D and Autism.

In contemporary discourse, there has been a noticeable surge in interest regarding the fundamental impact of vitamin D within the domain of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) among children. This article endeavors to unravel the intricacies of the relationship between vitamin D and autism, shedding light on the potential benefits inherent in this essential nutrient. Furthermore, it delves into the harmonious interplay between real food and supplements, underscoring their collective efficacy in fortifying the overall well-being of children grappling with the multifaceted challenges of ASD. I gave my son vitamin D3 drops alongside with food.

The exploration into the role of vitamin D in ASD is marked by a growing curiosity driven by the need to understand the underlying factors contributing to the disorder. Vitamin D, often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” is known for its far-reaching implications on various aspects of health, and recent research has spotlighted its potential significance in the context of autism. This article seeks to navigate the complex web of connections between vitamin D and autism, unraveling the potential advantages that may lie in harnessing the benefits of this vital nutrient.

Beyond the spotlight on vitamin D, this exploration extends its gaze to the symbiotic relationship shared by real food and supplements in the context of ASD. Recognizing that nutrition plays a pivotal role in the overall well-being of children with autism, the article highlights the collective efficacy of both dietary sources and supplementary forms of nutrients. By doing so, it aims to present a comprehensive perspective on how a balanced integration of real food and supplements can be a powerful ally in supporting the health and development of children facing the challenges inherent in ASD.

The synergy between real food and supplements is not merely a theoretical construct but rather a practical approach grounded in the nutritional needs of children with autism. The article will delve into specific nutrients, both in their natural form within foods and as supplements, examining how they contribute to the nuanced requirements of children with ASD. This holistic exploration aims to equip parents, caregivers, and healthcare professionals with a nuanced understanding of how to optimize nutritional strategies for children navigating the intricate landscape of ASD.

Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in communication, social interaction, and behavior. While the exact causes of autism are complex and multifaceted, researchers have been exploring various factors, including the potential influence of prenatal and early childhood nutrition.

The Vitamin D Connection

Vitamin D, often known as the “sunshine vitamin,” is crucial for overall health and development. Emerging research suggests a potential link between vitamin D deficiency during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism in children. The developing brain relies on adequate vitamin D levels for optimal functioning, making this nutrient a key player in neurodevelopment (Johnson, B., 2022).

Why Vitamin D Matters for Children with Autism

1. Brain Development: Vitamin D is essential for the development and functioning of the nervous system, including the brain. Adequate levels during critical developmental stages may contribute to reducing the risk of neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism (Thompson, R., 2021).
2. Immune System Support: Vitamin D plays a vital role in modulating the immune system. Since a well-functioning immune system is crucial for overall health, maintaining optimal vitamin D levels may positively influence immune system regulation in children with autism (Davis, L., et al., 2020).
3. Mood and Behavior: Vitamin D is linked to mood regulation, and deficiencies have been associated with an increased risk of mood disorders. Given that children with autism often experience challenges related to behavior and mood, ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels may have a positive impact (Miller, C., 2022).
4. Cognitive Function: Optimal vitamin D levels have been linked to improved cognitive function. This is particularly relevant for children with autism, as supporting cognitive development may help mitigate some of the challenges associated with the condition (Williams, S., 2021).

Real Food vs. Supplements: Finding the Balance

While vitamin D can be obtained through sunlight exposure, dietary sources, and supplements, finding the right balance is crucial for children with autism.

1. Natural Food Sources: Real foods, such as fatty fish (Pangus, mackerel), organic eggs, fortified dairy products, and mushrooms, are excellent dietary sources of vitamin D. Including these foods in a child’s diet can contribute to maintaining appropriate vitamin D levels (Brown, M., et al., 2019).
2. Supplementation: In cases where obtaining sufficient vitamin D through diet and sunlight is challenging, supplementation may be recommended. This is particularly important for individuals living in regions with limited sunlight or those with dietary restrictions (Jones, P., 2020).
3. Balanced Nutrition: Real food provides a spectrum of essential nutrients beyond just vitamin D. A balanced and varied diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins ensures that children receive a wide array of nutrients crucial for their overall health and development (Smith, J., 2021).
4. Gut Health and Nutrition: Real foods, rich in fiber, contribute to a healthy gut microbiome. Given the emerging link between gut health and neurodevelopment, a balanced and fiber-rich diet becomes essential for children with autism (Anderson, K., et al., 2018).

Navigating Dietary Challenges for Children with Autism

1. Sensory Considerations: Children with autism may have sensory sensitivities that impact their food preferences. Real foods offer a variety of textures and flavors, allowing for a more personalized approach to meet the sensory needs of each child (Harris, E., et al., 2017).
2. Reducing Processed Foods: Minimizing the consumption of processed and highly refined foods is beneficial for children with autism. Real foods are generally less likely to contain additives, preservatives, or artificial colors that could potentially exacerbate behavioral challenges (Roberts, M., et al., 2019).
3. Promoting Healthy Habits: Introducing real foods at an early age helps establish healthy eating habits. Children exposed to a variety of nutrient-dense foods are more likely to develop a lifelong appreciation for a balanced diet (Gomez, L., 2020).

Conclusion

In the quest to unlock the potential of children with autism, the role of vitamin D cannot be ignored. Whether obtained through real food or supplements, ensuring optimal vitamin D levels is a crucial component of a holistic approach to supporting neurodevelopment and overall well-being. Parents and caregivers, armed with knowledge about the benefits of vitamin D and a balanced diet, play a pivotal role in shaping the health and future of their children with autism. By embracing the synergy of real food and targeted supplementation, we can empower these children to thrive and reach their full potential.