Key Nutrient Deficiencies Linked to ASD
1. Vitamin D
- Frequently found at low or deficient levels in children with autism. One narrative review found vitamin D to be among the most commonly reported deficiencies.PubMedPMC+1
- A striking 2025 study using a nanoemulsion form of vitamin D3 showed significant improvements in adaptive behavior, fine motor skills, and language in children with ASD.New York PostThe Times of India
- Low neonatal vitamin D is also linked to higher autism risk.The Australian
2. B Vitamins (Especially Folate and B12)
- Folate (B9): Commonly deficient. Issues include disrupted one-carbon metabolism and autoantibodies blocking folate transport across the blood-brain barrier. Supplementation with folinic acid has shown symptom improvement in some children.PMCWikipediaReddit+1
- Vitamin B12: Lower levels—especially in brain tissue—are noted, affecting methylation and antioxidant pathways. Some studies show benefits from B12 supplementation.WikipediaPMC
3. Vitamin A
- Strong evidence of deficiency in many children with autism. Studies link low vitamin A to higher autism severity. Supplementation has even resulted in improved behavioral metrics in clinical assessments.RedditPMC
4. Minerals: Zinc, Iron, Calcium, Magnesium
- Children with ASD commonly show lower levels of zinc, iron, calcium, and magnesium, often driven by selective eating and digestive issues. These deficiencies correlate with both nutritional and behavioral impairments.PMCPubMedWikipediaReddit
5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Children with ASD often have lower omega-3 levels (like DHA/EPA), which play important roles in brain function. Supplementation may correct this, though impact on ASD behaviors remains mixed.PMCPubMed
Summary Table
| Nutrient | Deficiency in ASD? | Notes on Impact or Research Findings |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin D | Very common | Nanoemulsion forms show promise in improving symptoms. |
| Folate (B9) | Common, with metabolic barriers | Folinic acid supplementation shows behavioral improvements. |
| Vitamin B12 | Often low, esp. in brain tissue | Improves methylation and antioxidant status in some studies. |
| Vitamin A | High prevalence | Lower levels linked to more severe symptoms; supplementation may help. |
| Zinc, Iron, Calcium, Magnesium | Frequently deficient | Related to dietary selectivity; impact growth and cognitive development. |
| Omega-3 Fatty Acids | Often inadequate | Important for brain health; mixed results on behavior. |
What Parents Are Saying (Community Insight)
Parents in forums emphasize:
“Children with ASD and FRAAs respond well to folinic acid… treatable subgroup.”Reddit
“Functional vitamin B2 deficiency—linked to iodine, selenium, molybdenum issues—affects B12 absorption.”Reddit
Folate, B2, B12, and cofactor minerals are frequently highlighted as missing nutrients due to metabolic complexities.
What You Can Do
- Request a nutritional assessment—blood tests for vitamin D, folate, B12, and key minerals like zinc and iron can clarify needs.
- Talk to your physician or dietitian about options like folinic acid or specialized forms (e.g., nanoemulsion vitamin D3).
- Aim for variety in diet, especially sources of healthy fats (like omega-3s), minerals, and micro- and macronutrients.
- Monitor carefully—some vitamins (like A and D) can be toxic if taken in excess.
Stay Informed & Empowered
For more tips, research updates, and resources for families and children with special needs, subscribe at HirahCares.org.
Hirahcares 