Nutritional Deficiencies Associated with Autism

 

Risk factors:

(1) moderate to severe food selectivity by the patient

(2) dietary restrictions or nutritional therapies initiated by the parents in an attempt to control the disorder

 

There is increased risk of vitamin deficiency unless vitamin supplements are given. These include deficiencies in:

(1) vitamin A

(2) vitamin B12

(3) vitamin C

(4) vitamin D

 

Other issues may include:

(1) protein malnutrition

(2) inadequate calories

(3) inadequate intake of minerals and trace elements